If you’re in the market for a used luxury sedan, the 2008 Lexus ES350 might have caught your eye. Known for its smooth ride and plush interior, this model has been a popular choice for those seeking a blend of comfort and performance. However, like any vehicle, it comes with its own set of quirks and potential issues. In this blog post, we’ll dive into some of the common problems reported by owners of the 2008 ES350, as well as discuss its overall reliability. Whether you’re considering buying one or just curious about how it holds up over time, we’ve got you covered.
While the 2008 Lexus ES350 is generally praised for its reliability, there are a few areas where it tends to show its age. From transmission hiccups to occasional electrical gremlins, we’ll explore the issues that have been most frequently reported. But don’t worry—it’s not all doom and gloom. We’ll also highlight the aspects that make this car a dependable choice for many drivers. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s take a closer look at what you can expect from the 2008 Lexus ES350.
Body Components
Parts Assessed:
Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.
Reported Problems:
N/A
Analysis:
No major problem has been reported
Brake System
Parts Assessed
Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).
Reported Problems:
- Massive Oil Leak and Loss of Oil Pressure
Analysis:
The 2008 Lexus ES350 has been known to experience issues with massive oil leaks and loss of oil pressure, which can be a major concern for owners. These problems can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed promptly, affecting the overall reliability of the vehicle. While the ES350 is generally considered a dependable car, these specific issues highlight the importance of regular maintenance and timely repairs.
Heating & Cooling
Parts Assessed
Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.
Reported Problems:
- Check Engine Light With Code P0505
Analysis:
The 2008 Lexus ES350 is generally known for its reliability, but like any car, it can have its issues. One common problem is the check engine light coming on with code P0505, which indicates an issue with the idle air control system. While this can be a bit of a hassle, its usually fixable with some maintenance and doesnt overshadow the overall dependability of the vehicle.
Drivetrain
Parts Assessed
CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.
Reported Problems:
- Software Upgrade for Navigation & Heater Control Displays
Analysis:
The software upgrade for the navigation and heater control displays in the 2008 Lexus ES350 has been a mixed bag for some owners. While the upgrade aims to enhance functionality, a few users have reported glitches and occasional unresponsiveness in the system. Overall, it seems like a hit-or-miss situation, with some folks enjoying the improvements and others facing minor hiccups.
Interior Electronics
Parts Assessed
Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.
Reported Problems:
N/A
Analysis:
No major problem has been reported
Cooling System
Parts Assessed
Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).
Reported Problems:
N/A
Analysis:
No major problem has been reported
Ignition & Wiring
Parts Assessed
Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.
Reported Problems:
N/A
Analysis:
No major problem has been reported
Engine Repairs
Parts Assessed
Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.
Reported Problems:
N/A
Analysis:
No major problem has been reported
Exhaust System
Parts Assessed
Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.
Reported Problems:
N/A
Analysis:
No major problem has been reported
Fuel & Emissions
Parts Assessed
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.
Reported Problems:
N/A
Analysis:
No major problem has been reported
Onboard Electronics
Parts Assessed
Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.
Reported Problems:
N/A
Analysis:
No major problem has been reported
Strange Sounds & Leaks
Parts Assessed
Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.
Reported Problems:
N/A
Analysis:
No major problem has been reported
Exterior Finish
Parts Assessed
Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.
Reported Problems:
N/A
Analysis:
No major problem has been reported
Suspension & Steering
Parts Assessed
Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).
Reported Problems:
N/A
Analysis:
No major problem has been reported
Transmission Repairs
Parts Assessed
Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.
Reported Problems:
N/A
Analysis:
No major problem has been reported
Conclusion
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