Here's a question. What do you all think the break in speed should be a for a new ES? The manual says not to drive at an excessive speed. Now that's really subjective, because 80 may be excessive to some while others may say 90 mph or more is excessive, still even a few may say 75..... The good news is that it's only recommended for the first 600 miles and I guess after that you can 'open it up'..

 

I kept mine under 100 kph (65 mph) for the first 1000 kms (650 miles). The important thing is not to accelerate hard and to vary the throttle.

 

Salesman just told me to vary the engine speed. He seemed reluctant to say anything about accelerating hard or going to high RPM.

 

Recently I toured the Georgetown, KY plant where new Camry's and other Toyota vehicles are built. During the tour the guide mentioned that every new vehicle is driven up to 80mph on a test track behind the plant. Since the V-6 Camry shares the same engine/transmission as the ES350, I'm sure you'll be safe if you don't exceed 80 during break-in. I think it's just as important to drive easily (slow starts) until the temperature guage reaches the normal range.

 

80 mph is not excessive considering the overdrive top gear, as long as you vary the speed some when cruising on the freeway. Just go by the guidelines in the manual.

 

Not surprised, salespeople are usually poor sources of any technical information. Just ignore them.

 

Thanks for input...I actually got up to 80 during the first 6 months but not over that...my average was probably closer to 70-75. Now going under 65 would definitely be challenge on ATL freeways....

2009 ES Level III obsidian/black