RM78

Was wondering if any experienced 5th Gen ES 350 owners could help shed some light on this for me. Looking to buy a used ES , I keep reading 2007 and 2008 are years that had some issues, but what about 2009-2012? I see 2012 is regarded as a good year for the 5th gen, are the 2009-2011's known for any major problems specifically?

Also, what can be expected for realistic maintenance costs vs say a Toyota Camry of equivalent year/age?

(Thanks for any feedback, it's much appreciated!)

xanderES

iTrader: (8)

Generally speaking, a few of the minor issues in the redesigned 07 model were fixed 09+. Main issue you'll probably run into is just having to change a leaky water pump. Others are going to be normal wear/tear for used cars. Really just depends on how good of a used car you choose to buy. If you didn't know - the ES350 is based on the Camry platform with the same motor, so any issues you have will probably coincide with both models.

Was it taken care of well? Was it maintained properly? Are you taking it to get pre-inspected or are you taking a jack and removing splash shields to look at the underside for leaks/issues? Compression tested? Scoped? I mean you're asking really generalized questions here. Overall, the car is going to last you a very long-time mileage wise. Of course, the reliability and maintenance will vary depending on the caliber of car you choose especially since it's going to be 10+ years old.

Clutchless

I agree with everything he said. The 2009+ models fixed all the early model bugs. Newer is better for reliability and features. Same with lower mileage. Service history is the most important thing in a used car. Get the newest and lowest mileage well maintained & accident free car you can find.

CarFax is somewhat helpful. Even better in addition is the Lexus Drivers Site which being sponsored by Lexus lets you join for free and enter the VIN of any vehicle you are thinking of buying so you can see the dealer service and repair history. I have used this (Toyota has the same thing with the same log on) when used car shopping. https://www.lexus.com/drivers/account/create-account

tolian21

I dont think es350 is more expensive to maintain instead of toyota, unless of course you must go to Lexus dealer

spaceballs

Out of interest, did they also fix the non-severe oil seepage that was prominent in the earlier 2GR-FE's?
I wonder how many of the earlier production issues can be remedied yourself, piston slap is obviously here to stay, but you can upgrade the VVTI oil line, replace the water pump and switch out the idler pulleys, anything else?

Wilson2000

I have a 2011 ES that has been mechanically perfect for 12 years. Definitely stay away from the 2008/2009.

RM78

I know the 07 and 08 had problems , but the 09 as well?

Thanks for the feedback everyone..great information

Wilson2000

Sorry, your right...07 & 08 had the shift flare. I'm not certain when the water pump and vvti oil hose issues were resolved. Anyone else know?

Skeeter3

09+ had the metal VVTi line IIRC, unsure about the water pump