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Hello everyone, I haven't been on this site in awhile, but I am finally looking to pick up the ES I've been wanting for years. I just totaled my paid off commuter (09 Corolla S with 159k). Insurance co is giving me close to $6k and I am reluctantly going to take out a small loan for around $5-6k to get what I want. I drove the 6th Gen, and they are wonderful. The exterior of those is growing on me and I like the interior layout better than the 5th gens; however, I don't want to spend that much......so a 5th Gen it is. I have some questions.
Does anyone know how many UL package ESs there are in relation to the base models? I have found 2 in many months. They must be the 1%, and when I find one, the asking price is astronomical. It also appears you have to have the UL to get the ML. Example: Found THE one I want in Tampa. 2012 black/black UL with ML audio, 77k, but $20k asking price!
I also test drove an 08 awhile back and the stereo was horrible. Were there any improvements to it during the 2010 changeover? This would be the base sound system, of course.
My dad has a 10 RX350 with 180k+ on it and ZERO repairs. How has your ES been reliability wise?
Any issues or ES specific things I need to look for in a used one?
Fortunately I have access to Manheim and can search the auctions for whatever I want. I have a relative in the business. It's becoming known that I might as well just buy a nice 1 or 2 owner via private party and just travel out of town to get what I want. It's income tax refund time, so the wholesale market is nuts with inflated values. Looking to spend between $10500-12000.
You’ll be able to find a used ES350 within range of what you’re looking to spend. They’re great cars as these motors are in quite a few different Toyota’s and Lexus.
I can’t answer your question about the trim levels and how many were built. But in my experience with my 2011 es you shouldn’t have any complaints about the stock radio and stereo outputs aside from the bass. I have added two 10” subs to compliment the stock sound system and it sounds just fine for my ears.
Overall the ES are one of their most reliable cars built and if you’re looking at the 5th gen, the mid cycle refresh ‘10-‘12 years will have made the necessary changes to bring the best of the best in the 5th gen. Although the interior is more modern and luxurious I still prefer the over all body of the 5th gen minus the front end. The car is an absolute gem for a daily commuter you will be enamored with the car hands down.
You’ll be able to find a used ES350 within range of what you’re looking to spend. They’re great cars as these motors are in quite a few different Toyota’s and Lexus.
I can’t answer your question about the trim levels and how many were built. But in my experience with my 2011 es you shouldn’t have any complaints about the stock radio and stereo outputs aside from the bass. I have added two 10” subs to compliment the stock sound system and it sounds just fine for my ears.
Overall the ES are one of their most reliable cars built and if you’re looking at the 5th gen, the mid cycle refresh ‘10-‘12 years will have made the necessary changes to bring the best of the best in the 5th gen. Although the interior is more modern and luxurious I still prefer the over all body of the 5th gen minus the front end. The car is an absolute gem for a daily commuter you will be enamored with the car hands down.
How were you able to add the 2 10's and tie into the stock system? Just curious if you had to make any major changes.
I really want a black/black with the UL and ML, which is almost impossible to find; although I found that one I mentioned in my initial post. I, also, surprisingly found an 09 with the UL and ML at a small independent lot a mile from my house, 99k, silver on gray, but it was a smoker's car and he had too much in it, IMO, $12,800. I'd settle on the color for the options, but the "bowling alley carpet" smell killed it or me. My dad's 10 RX 350 still has the leather and clean smell after 8 years and 180k. I would rather have the 10-12 model due to the face lift changes.
I'll take my time. It just seems the UL and ML combo is a unicorn car.
First of all I have loved my 2010. Actually just tripped 49K and we bought it new in Nov 09. Been back to the dealer only once in all those years and that was for some bs floor mat hook recall. Since we have a base model can’t speak about the ML but the standard has been just fine for us.
if you’re dead set on a UL you can always take it to an upholstery shop and have the carpet replaced and maybe even the headliner.
So we installed two kickers and an amp to the stock system. Since I do not have the ML I think it was a little easier utilizing an audio pass filter. As for the carpeting/floor mats I was able to get interior diamond stitched flooring specifically made for the ES. There are other interior options, google will be your best friend. Just know there’s always alternative to every situation!
Bought a new 2011 in October 2011, premium. Traded in 2007 Ultra with Mark Levinson audio, standard system is okay but should have shopped for Ultra again with Mark Levinson audio. Just turned 50,000 miles, no issues, just regular maintenance.
Thanks for everyone's help! I'm finalizing a deal on a 2010 smoky granite mica / black with the UL and ML. Finally found one of these unicorn UL / ML cars In 1 of the 2 color combos I wanted! Pics to come. Bought it 1200 miles away; should be here next week. I've always liked the refreshed 5th Gen from 2010-2012, and I needed a reasonably inexpensive car I could pay off in 2 years to avoid lots of debt.
Well, the shady dealership sold the car out from me as money was in-transit. Beyond pissed. I'm going to bump my WTB ad. If anyone knows of a black/black or gray/black 2010-2012 ES350 with the UL in good condition under 100k, let me know. I'm in the market ASAP.
Sounds like you have had your reliability questions answered but I'll throw in my .02. I bought a new 2010 for my wife and have only had oil changed, tires and a battery during our 100k miles of commuting. (brakes are @ 2.5mm and will be refreshed soon) I am currently looking for her the right 2015 RX and I'll keep the ES and retire my commuter Civic. At that point I plan to do the brakes, A/T fluid and a good waxing since it will start it's second life as my work car and have to sleep outside.
As for your disappointment with the shady dealership, count that as a blessing! Since they did that, no telling what lies they may have told you about that car.
03-23-18, 08:28 AM
Looking to buy a 2010-2012 - Questions
