Should you buy a USED Lexus ES? - What goes WRONG?

How Does the Lexus ES Compare to Its Competitors?

Overview of Lexus ES

• The speaker reflects on personal preferences regarding the Lexus ES, noting its reliability and long-lasting nature, suggesting it may not encourage frequent car purchases.

Value Proposition

• Questions whether the Lexus ES is merely a luxury version of the Toyota Camry or if it offers genuine value in the premium car segment due to its reputation for build quality and reliability.

Exterior Quality Assessment

• Discusses findings from owner reports indicating minimal exterior issues with the Lexus ES, primarily mentioning a potential rattle in the sunroof that can be easily fixed.

• Compares the Lexus ES favorably against competitors like BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, highlighting their common complaints about paint quality and electronic faults.

Build Quality Comparison

• Praises the exceptional paint quality, accurate panel gaps, and overall build quality of the 7th generation Lexus ES compared to its rivals.

Model Simplicity

• Notes that choosing a model is straightforward with only two power plants and three trim specs available in Australia, contrasting this simplicity with more complex options from European brands.

What Are Current Market Prices for Used Lexus ES?

Pricing Insights

• States that used Lexus ES prices range from approximately $40,000 to $90,000 in Australia.

Competitive Pricing Analysis

• Highlights that while new Audi A6 models are significantly more expensive than new Lexus ES models, their used market prices are comparable due to better value retention by Lexus.

Aesthetic Appeal: Subjective Opinions on Design

Personal Reflections on Design

• The speaker shares mixed feelings about the aesthetics of the Lexus ES but acknowledges an evolving appreciation as they spend more time with it.

Modification Potential

• Suggests viewing the design as a blank canvas for modifications similar to Land Cruiser owners' approach to customization.

Upgrading Infotainment Systems: A Common Need

Infotainment System Considerations

Infotainment System and Interior Quality of the Lexus ES

Infotainment System Issues

• The Lexus ES has received a few complaints regarding connection issues with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto; however, recent updates have significantly improved these systems.

• Users may find the transition from the Lexus infotainment system to BMW's iDrive system jarring due to the dramatic difference in usability and intuitiveness.

Interior Complaints

• Some owners wish for softer-touch plastics in lower areas of the interior, similar to competitors like BMW 5 Series or Audi A6; however, hard plastics are noted for their resilience.

• Unlike many European brands that face numerous complaints about various interior issues (e.g., air conditioning problems), the Lexus ES is largely free from such faults.

Ergonomics and Comfort

• The reviewer expresses frustration at having to search extensively for common issues within Lexus vehicles compared to other brands where problems are more prevalent.

• Despite being impressed by seat comfort and ergonomics, there is a desire for minor improvements in lumbar support features.

Premium Feel and Practicality

• The interior quality above hip height feels premium with hand-stitched leather and real timber veneer used in trim pieces, contrasting sharply with cheaper materials found in competitors.

• Practical features include a small glove box, dedicated phone storage space, adjustable cup holders, wireless charging pad, and thoughtful design elements aimed at cleanliness.

Resilience and Features

• Owners of fleets report that Lexus interiors outperform competitors like E-Class or 5 Series in terms of durability while maintaining a soft feel.

Car Features and Comfort Insights

Wiper Blades Recommendation

• The speaker discusses the reliability of high beam and rain-sensing wipers in a used car, noting potential wear on consumables like wiper blades.

• A recommendation is made for Wipe Tech wiper blades, emphasizing their ease of online ordering and installation, along with a promotional offer of 15% off and free express shipping.

Rear Seat Comfort

• The speaker compares their height to Ed Sheeran's while discussing the spaciousness in the back seat, highlighting ample knee and foot room.

• The rear seats are described as ultra-comfortable with sufficient headroom, quality materials including leather, and thoughtful design features.

Practicality Features

• Various practical features are mentioned such as power outlets, USB points, air vents, mat pockets, and accessible door bins for storage.

• An impressive pull-down armrest with storage options is noted; it includes felt lining to prevent items from rolling around.

Boot Space Analysis

• The boot space is characterized as massive with a large opening aperture but lacks foldable seats due to the presence of a V brace for structural rigidity.

Driving Experience Overview

Driving Challenges

• Some owners report challenges parking due to the car's length comparable to a Toyota Land Cruiser.

• Complaints about front-wheel drive are mentioned; however, it's justified given its purpose as a comfort-oriented vehicle rather than a performance car.

Refinement and Quality

• The driving experience emphasizes refinement and quietness in EV mode; build quality surpasses expectations compared to other vehicles in its class.

• Despite initial assumptions that it would feel like an upscale Camry, it offers a unique driving experience encouraging smooth acceleration rather than aggressive driving.

Common Complaints

• Issues related to excessive alerts from safety systems mandated by Australian legislation create annoyance during drives.

Suspension Performance Over Time

What Are the Common Mechanical Concerns with the 2.4 L Toyota Petrol Engine?

Overview of Engine Issues

• The 2.4 L Toyota petrol engine has a reputation for oil consumption issues, particularly in some models from around 2019 that experienced piston problems, typically resolved under warranty or recall.

• Early model years also faced cam phase issues due to sticking oil control valves; however, these were generally addressed under warranty.

• Some vehicles may consume oil and require occasional top-ups, but this is less severe than older models like the 2Z.

Additional Mechanical Problems

• High-pressure fuel pump issues were noted in the 2022-2023 models, all managed under warranty. EGR valve problems are common; they can stick open or leak coolant into the combustion chambers.

• Water pumps and thermostats can occasionally leak but are not as problematic as European counterparts. The coolant bypass valve may log fault codes if it sticks but does not usually cause immediate breakdowns.

Maintenance Considerations

• The PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve is a service item listed by Lexus but often neglected due to its difficult location under the inlet manifold.

• Hybrid systems are considered reliable with easy battery replacements if needed. The ECVT transmission is highlighted as one of the most reliable on the market today.

Reliability Compared to Competitors

• Both hybrid and non-hybrid automatic transmissions are deemed very reliable, contributing to their popularity in taxi services and ride-sharing platforms.

• Despite respect for Lexus's reliability, some consumers find it less exciting compared to brands like BMW or Mercedes-Benz; however, owner feedback suggests significant differences in reliability when compared to European rivals.

Conclusion on Ownership Experience

• Research indicates that while European cars may have higher maintenance costs and depreciation risks, Lexus offers superior build quality and reliability for those prioritizing these factors over brand excitement.

• For potential buyers seeking refined driving experiences without major complaints about mechanical issues, the ES model stands out as an excellent choice among competitors.