tbm5690

I'm considering a 2008 ES350 with 110K on the clock, well maintained and in good condition. I'm looking for specifics on what to look for in the realm of common issues. I own an RX330 with the 3MZ-FE, but I'm not terribly familiar with the 2GR-FE other than the fact that it has the advantage of a chain over a belt. I know that the rubber oil pressure lines as well as the coolant return lines were problematic, but remedied with metal replacements. Also, I am aware of the tendency for the valve cover seals to leak. I understand transmission flares can be common as well? Anything that I am missing or should know prior to taking a good hard look?

Thank you!

12jimmyjam

I had bad passenger side window regulators in all 3 5th gens that I have owned. They still functioned well. They all just buzzed. Overall it's a great vehicle.

mlacomb

A few things to look at (and may not be issues or issues already taken care of):

1. Alternator. The clutch on the front seems like it likes to go out around 100k - they eventually fail, and can fry the alternator.
2. Water pump. Not an issue with every car, but mine's been changed and so have others.
3. Passenger side window clip. Lexus dealer will replace the window @ around $800 full stop.
4. Trunk button rubber. Over time, the initial quality of the rubber over the trunk button (on the trunk lid itself) can get soft and messy. Replacement switch is around $20 I think, and is a 15 minute job to swap.
5. More prominent on the 07 and 08, cold engine "clacking" above idle, under load. Once warmed up (temp gauge in middle), no abnormal noise. There is a TSB for this, but I asked my dealer to look at it and said "normal". This is not something that appears to affect longevity. Mine's not gotten worse nor better.

Hadn't heard about the valve cover seals at all; no problem in mine (08 as well) with just over 110k. The oil pressure line is a recall if I remember correctly, so if not done get a Lexus dealer to do it. I sometimes have a 3-4 flare, but it's livable and not the end of the world to me; moreso in colder weather.

nevernu

>>3. Passenger side window clip. Lexus dealer will replace the window @ around $800 full stop.

and there is a great BlueMoose DIY repair kit for this

edit: and a day after I posted this, my 2007 driver window went and I'm getting the front clip

mlacomb

Right there with you nevernu - I was @ 101k miles with the CPO warranty to 100k, I asked them to goodwill the replacement. They did! They also comped me a CV boot.. saved me $1200 bucks.

I should probably buy one of the clips though since I plan on keeping the car a long time.