Hey, I have a 2016 Lexus ES w/ ~80k miles. My parents got it for me in HS and I have loved driving every minute of this car. As it approaches 8 years, I'm wondering if there are any major expenses I should anticipate. I'm also considering upgrading to a used GX in a few years, but I want to make sure I time it right. At this point, I’m curious if the car’s value has depreciated enough that selling might not make sense. If I don’t expect any significant repair costs, I might just keep it as a grocery hauler. Any insight with those who have held older ES version would be helpful. How many miles can I realistically expect with it.

 

Look after it, do the regular maintenance, and it’ll go 200,000 easy. My 2014 is now at 110,00 miles (186,000 km) and last year completed a 9,000 mile trip to the East Coast and back and this summer to Vancouver Island return. It still gets excellent fuel economy, has required no major service (but may be looking for new rotors and pads shortly). I won’t do plugs until/unless I start to see fuel economy drop or codes get thrown. Your mates may snear as they drive their “performance” cars while you laugh as you continue to count your savings. Check out the sub forums for the older generations of ES.

 

I can only speak for me. There are definitely sportier, faster and better handling cars out there, but the legendary 3.5 V-6 mated to the 6 speed automatic is a proven winner. I am a mechanic and could "upgrade" if I wanted to. I have always wanted an LS460, but could not (yet) trade the ES dependability and cost of ownership for one. I have seen ES 350's, Camry's and Avalon's with the same running gear last 250k with proper maintenance.

Not attempting to start a debate, but if you change oil every 5k, service the transmission, flush the radiator and brake fluid as recommended it will last 200k easy. Just one man's opinion.

 

I wouldn't call it a major expense if you do it yourself, but spark plugs should be changed at least every 144 months (per Lexus). I don't know why the recommendation but I suspect it's because of seizing.