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Lexus · Mid-Size · 2019–2025 Custom Search

Lexus ES XV70

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

5.0 / 5.0 · Based on 3 engine variants · How we rate
Most Fun Engine

302 PS

ES 350 · Benzin

Finally, an ES worth choosing over the Camry

Decent
Most Reliable Engine

207 PS

2.5L Dynamic Force Benzin

1 weaknesses

Good Choice

Generations


Engine Overview

The Lexus ES XV70 is available with 3 engine variants — from 207 to 316 hp.

ES 250 · Petrol· 207 PS
2019 2025

2.5L Dynamic Force naturally aspirated — the non-hybrid version used in the ES 250. Dual injection, high thermal efficiency, smooth operation. Minor oil consumption documented on some units but rarely problematic. A fundamentally simple, efficient engine. 207 hp is adequate for the ES 250 but this is a Camry engine in a luxury sedan — adequate, not inspiring.

  • !! Piston Ring Oil Consumption from 80,000 km

    Some A25A-FKS units exhibit higher-than-expected oil consumption due to piston ring design. Typically manifests around 50,000-80,000 miles. Not all units are affected. Monitor oil level between changes.

    Symptoms: Oil level drops between changes, no visible leaks, may trigger low oil warning
    200–500 $
ES 300h · Petrol Hybrid· 218 PS
2019 2025

The A25A-FXS 2.5L hybrid from the Dynamic Force series is rock-solid — 250k+ km realistic. Clean EGR valve from 70k km to prevent coking. EGR cooler can crack at any mileage — watch coolant level.

  • !! Oil Pan Gasket Leak (TSB) from 40,000 km

    Toyota Technical Tip T-TT-0672-21 documents oil leaks from the No. 2 oil pan on 2021-2022 TMMK-produced A25A-FXS engines. A manufacturing process issue causes the oil pan gasket to fail prematurely. Dealer repair under warranty involves oil pan reseal.

    Symptoms: Oil drip from lower engine, oil spots on ground, oil residue on oil pan surface
    200–600 $
  • ! Oil Emulsion From Short-Trip Cold Weather Use

    During short trips at freezing temperatures, moisture from blow-by gases condenses in the crankcase, producing milky emulsion on the oil cap and in the oil. TSB EG-00731T-TME (2022) addresses this. Not a head gasket leak — resolved by occasional longer drives that bring the engine to full operating temperature.

    Symptoms: Milky residue on oil cap, white deposits inside valve cover, low oil pressure warning in severe cases
    50–200 $
  • ! EGR System Clogging from 160,000 km

    The EGR system accumulates carbon deposits over time. Hybrid operation with frequent engine start-stop cycles accelerates buildup. EGR valve cleaning or replacement typically needed around 100,000 miles. Preventable with occasional sustained highway driving.

    Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, reduced power, increased emissions
    300–800 $
ES 350 · Petrol· 302 PS
2019 2025

The 2GR-FKS is the latest evolution of the proven 3.5L V6 — dual injection keeps valves clean. Water pump and ignition coils are the only regular items. Significantly more reliable than turbocharged competition.

  • !! Front Timing Cover Oil Leak (Production Defect) from 80,000 km

    The 2GR-FKS inherited the timing cover leak from the 2GR-FE. First and second production years (2016-2018) were worst affected — a production process issue, not a design flaw. Leaks typically appear by the first or second oil change. Later production years are largely free of this problem. Repair costs are extreme due to engine removal requirement.

    Symptoms: Oil leak from front timing cover, oil drip on AC compressor, burning oil smell under hood
    3,000–7,000 $
  • !! Premature Water Pump Failure from 80,000 km

    The 2GR-FKS shares the water pump weakness with the entire 2GR engine family. Premature failures documented as early as 30,000-50,000 miles. Internal design is improved over the 2GR-FE but longevity remains below Toyota standards. Replacement is moderately labor-intensive.

    Symptoms: Coolant leak from water pump area, overheating warning, coolant loss, whining noise from pump
    400–1,200 $
  • ! Oil Consumption Between Changes from 60,000 km

    Some 2GR-FKS engines consume oil between changes. Toyota considers up to 1 quart per 1,200 miles within specification. Owners report consumption beginning as early as 30,000-60,000 miles. The owner's manual instructs to check and top off as needed. Not catastrophic but requires monitoring.

    Symptoms: Oil level drops between changes, low oil level warning, need to add oil every 1,000-2,000 miles
    50–200 $

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Recall (NHTSA 20V-012)

Fuel pump impeller deforms from excessive fuel absorption, causing the pump to fail. Part of the massive Toyota/Lexus recall affecting 1.8 million vehicles. Affects 2019-2020 ES 350 and ES 300h production. Dealer replaces fuel pump assembly at no charge. Settlement approved December 2022 for affected owners.

Symptoms: Engine stall while driving, failure to start, rough running, warning lights on dashboard
Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Average
73 complaints · 2019–2025
  1. 01 Fuel System
    15 ⚠ 2
  2. 02 Brakes
    10 ⚠ 5
  3. 03 Engine
    9 ⚠ 1
  4. 04 Electrical
    9 ⚠ 4
  5. 05 Collision Avoidance
    8 ⚠ 4

Top Reported Issues

Fuel System (15 complaints)
Brakes (10 complaints)
Engine (9 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-04

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Known Problems and Issues +

A total of 13 weaknesses have been documented for the Lexus ES XV70 (2019–2025) — 7 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Other, Electronics, Suspension, Body. Considered reliable: 2GR-FKS (3.5L V6 D-4S), A25A-FXS (2.5L Hybrid), A25A-FKS (2.5L Dynamic Force).

What to watch out for with the Lexus ES? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Lexus ES XV70 have? +
The Lexus ES XV70 has 7 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Lexus ES XV70? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: 2GR-FKS (3.5L V6 D-4S), A25A-FXS (2.5L Hybrid), A25A-FKS (2.5L Dynamic Force). The most reliable engine is the A25A-FKS (2.5L Dynamic Force) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the 2GR-FKS (3.5L V6 D-4S).
Which Lexus ES XV70 engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Lexus ES XV70. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 1 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Lexus ES XV70 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Lexus ES XV70 — rated: "Decent". {description} The XV70 ES 350 got a new chassis, new interior, and kept the proven 3.5L V6. 302 hp through an 8-speed automatic. The ride-handling balance finally feels like a Lexus, not just a Camry with leather. F Sport adds adaptive dampers. The touchscreen replaced the hated touchpad. Annual repair costs around $470 — among the lowest in the segment. A rational choice that requires no apology.
Is the Lexus ES XV70 worth buying used? +
The Lexus ES XV70 is a good choice as a used car — 3 of 3 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Lexus ES XV70? +
The Lexus ES XV70 is available with engine variants from 207 to 316 hp. Petrol: 2GR-FKS (3.5L V6 D-4S), A25A-FXS (2.5L Hybrid), A25A-FKS (2.5L Dynamic Force).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee