Lexus ES 350
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.
Finally, an ES worth choosing over the Camry
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.
Engine Weaknesses 2
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
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
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
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.
CarPlay and Android Auto occasionally disconnect. Bluetooth pairing drops on some units. Software updates have improved stability over time. The touchscreen itself is a major improvement over the previous generation's touchpad. Most issues are software-fixable.
Front tires may wear unevenly or faster than expected. Soft lower control arm bushings flex under braking, causing slight toe changes. Regular alignment checks recommended. Rotation per the manual (front-to-back, not cross-rotation) extends tire life. Not unique to the ES — documented across Lexus sedans with similar suspension geometry.
Whistling from rear left quarter window at highway speeds. TSB L-SB-0031-22.
Abnormal clunking from front suspension, especially front left. Loose stabilizer link nut. TSB L-TT-0266-19.
The ES is tuned for maximum comfort, which means body roll in corners and disconnected steering feel at the limit. This is by design, not a defect. F Sport models with adaptive dampers significantly improve feedback. Non-F Sport models float over bumps but feel detached on twisty roads.