Hi Everyone, new to this ES forum. I have a GX470 that is just a beast of vehicle and very reliable. My wife is driving a 2011 camry and we are thinking of making the switch to a used ES350. So, my question is how reliable is the engine on the ES350?? Any known issues?? Thanks.

 

Is you wife's Camry a V6? If so, it's the same engine and drivetrain as the ES350 which is very reliable. It's been in the ES350 (longer for the Camry?) for about 9 model years and has a proven track record.

 

My wifes camry is the V4 and it has been very reliable. I have heard some transmissions issues with the early 07s...is this true??

 

You mean I4.
There's tranny flare, VVTi hose rupture...

 

The car is rock solid, by far the most reliable car I've ever owned. My '07 has over 176K miles on it.

The transmission flair (between 3-4 when cold) is something to check for, and also make sure the oil line hose has been replaced per the service bulletin. I'd also make sure the windows go up and down without any funny noises.

But I would not hesitate to buy another one.

 

Agree . . . 85k miles on an 2007 and been pretty bullet proof.

 

I was told today by a Toyota/Lexus shop that the V6 have timing cover leak issues and are very expensive to fix. How common are these on the ES and are there any years that are worse than others? I did a search and found a few people with 07 who had this issue.

 

I've got that issue - was quoted $2673 + tax to fix by Lexus dealer. My mechanic told me to leave it alone as it was more of a slight seeping. TBH even the dealer told me just to keep an eye on it.

 

Yeah- I think they pull the engine on that one. I wonder if a high mileage oil would fix the problem. I had a very slightly leak on my first ES 350 in the timing cover and it increased when I switched to a full synthetic. I didn't care though because it was under warranty.

 

Curious... What year is your ride?

 

It's a 2007

 

125K on mine. Just replaced the water pump and it was the first big expenditure besides regular maintenance. I wouldn't hesitate to buy another one.

 

What was the quote for the water pump?

 

I got it done at an independent shop for $700 and change. The local lexus shop wanted way more.