Last updated: 2026-05-13

2019 Lexus ES
RELIABILITY SCORE: 78/100 (GOOD)

2019 Lexus ES Reliability Report

The 2019 Lexus ES scores 78/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 33 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

3

Complaints

33

Complaint Rate

N/A

Est. Repair Cost

$551

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,300–$2,400

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint SeverityN/A

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs80/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact75/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue DiversityN/A

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (7)
  • ENGINE (4)
  • AIR BAGS (4)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Refresh

2019 is 3 years after the 2016 facelift refresh.

  • Year 7 in the Sixth generation (XV60) (2013–2023).
  • Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
  • 6th generation ES (US).

What this means for buyers

Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.

2013: Sixth generation (XV60) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2016: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2019: This Model Year

2019 is 3 years after the 2016 facelift refresh.

Should You Buy the 2019 Lexus ES?

At 78/100, the 2019 Lexus ES lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is 3 years after the 2016 facelift refresh.

Owners log 33 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to fuel propulsion system (7). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2020 Lexus ES, which scored 5 points higher. See also the 2018 Lexus ES for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +Low complaint frequency
  • +5-star NHTSA crash rating

Cons

  • Moderate recall count
  • FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM: Defective fuel pump (7 complaints)
  • ENGINE: Issues with the 2019 Lexus ES's engine, including stalling and complete engine... (4 complaints)

Compare 2019 Lexus ES With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 3 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (7)
  • ENGINE (4)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

3

recalls on record

A moderate 3 recalls are on file for the 2019 Lexus ES. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

33

complaints
LowAvgHigh
Very Low

Safety Incidents

6

Crashes

0

Fires

6

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2019 Lexus ES Recall Details

3 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Lexus ES. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

20V6820002020-11-04

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Consequence

If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.

20V0120002020-01-13

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020. On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Consequence

If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began May 4, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB02 and 20TA02 for Toyota vehicles and 20LB01 and 20LA01 for Lexus vehicles.

19V2880002019-04-10

AIR BAGS

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019 Lexus ES vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a driver knee air bag assembly mounted to the lower instrument panel (IP) that may have been improperly installed, possibly affecting the deployment of the knee air bag in the event of a crash.

Consequence

In the event of a crash, there is an increased risk of injury if the knee air bag does not deploy properly.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the driver knee air bag assembly, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 8, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are KLD and KLE.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2019 Lexus ES? Check its history first

Every 2019 Lexus ES has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2019 Lexus ES NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 10.5%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (None)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Lexus ESRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$551

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

2019 Lexus ES Example Repair Prices

National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.

Common repair costs and price estimates
RepairEstimated Cost
Anti-lock Brake System Inspect$137 – $201
Ignition Coil Replacement$445 – $607
Transmission Leak Inspection$76 – $112
Coolant Change$149 – $195
Cruise Control Switch Replacement$272 – $310
Engine Oil Level Sensor Replacement$547 – $661
Steering Knuckle Replacement$764 – $892
Door Mirror Replacement$955 – $1,083
Check Engine Light Diagnosis & Testing$153 – $224
Intake Manifold Gasket Replacement$493 – $671

Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

25–26 MPG

Running cost: $2,850–$2,950/yr

Fuel + repair

22 city / 31–33 hwy MPG

Hybrid

44 MPG

Running cost: $1,900/yr

Fuel + repair

43 city / 45 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
ES 350 3.5L 6-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)223326$2,300
ES 350 F Sport 3.5L 6-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)223125$2,400
Hybrid trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
ES 300h 2.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AV-S6)434544$1,350

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Lexus ES.

  • Inspect headlights for condensation after car wash

  • Verify fuel pump recall completion and parts availability

  • Test for hesitation or stalling during acceleration

  • Check for any unusual noises or vibrations when braking

  • Ensure airbags deploy in crash tests or inspections

  • Test DCM for repeated emergency calls

  • Confirm engine power consistency during test drive

2019 Lexus ES Common Problems by Component

33 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

7
4
4
5
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (7)ENGINE (4)AIR BAGS (4)SERVICE BRAKES (3)POWER TRAIN (3)FUEL SYSTEM (3)STRUCTURE (2)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)Other (5)

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

7 complaints

Owners report issues with the 2019 Lexus ES related to the fuel/propulsion system, particularly involving a defective fuel pump. Complaints frequently mention that the vehicle hesitates or fails to accelerate after stopping, sometimes requiring the engine to be turned off and restarted. This issue is noted to occur during city driving and can lead to stalling, which poses a risk of crashes, especially when merging or crossing intersections. Several owners express frustration with the lack of available parts to address the recall, and some describe safety concerns, particularly at high speeds on highways. These issues are reported to occur relatively early in the vehicle's life, with incidents noted as early as mid-2020.

7 complaints total

ENGINE

4 complaints

Owners report issues with the 2019 Lexus ES's engine, including stalling and complete engine failure. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle stalling during acceleration or while at a stop, causing potential delays in entering traffic. One owner describes a severe incident where the engine lost all power due to a hole in the engine block, resulting in a seized engine at 128,000 miles. Safety implications include the risk of stalling in traffic, which may affect the driver's ability to maneuver safely. Buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly at higher mileages, as they may indicate potential reliability concerns.

4 complaints total

AIR BAGS

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Lexus ES frequently report issues with airbag non-deployment during crashes. In three out of four complaints, airbags fail to deploy in collisions, including a T-bone accident and incidents involving unintended acceleration and brake failure. These incidents resulted in a total of five injuries. Complaints also describe failures in vehicle systems such as electrical warning sensors and parking brake assist, with failure mileages noted at approximately 3,636 and 18,400 miles. These reports suggest potential safety implications due to airbag and system malfunctions during critical situations.

4 complaints total3 crashes5 injuries
SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report several issues related to the braking system of the 2019 Lexus ES. Two complaints involve crashes: one describes unintended braking on the highway leading to a loss of control and collision with the median, while another describes a failure to stop at an intersection, resulting in a rear-end collision. A third complaint mentions automatic braking engaging without warning while reversing and a separate issue of vibration and noise when braking at higher speeds, which was diagnosed as needing rotor resurfacing. These problems have been noted at low mileages, with one case occurring at approximately 2,000 miles. The safety implications include loss of control and collision risks, which potential buyers should consider.

3 complaints total2 crashes
POWER TRAIN (3 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

3 complaints

Owners report experiencing power train issues with the 2019 Lexus ES, particularly involving sudden loss of power or hesitation during acceleration. Complaints frequently mention situations where the vehicle fails to accelerate as expected, often described as feeling like the car is in neutral despite being in gear. These issues typically arise during low-speed maneuvers such as turning or slowing down, and can occur on both local roads and highways. Some incidents have occurred within the first year of ownership, and owners note the lack of error messages or diagnostic codes when these events happen. Safety implications are significant, with reports of near-collisions due to unexpected power loss, highlighting potential risks for prospective buyers.

3 complaints total
FUEL SYSTEM (3 complaints)

FUEL SYSTEM

3 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Lexus ES350 report issues related to recall repairs for the fuel system, specifically concerning the unavailability of necessary parts. Complaints frequently mention that despite receiving recall notifications, parts for the repairs are not available at dealerships, leaving vehicles unrepaired. Some owners indicate that the manufacturer has taken an extended period to provide the parts, with one owner noting that their vehicle has been deemed unsafe to drive and remains unused in their garage since March 2020. No failures, crashes, or other safety incidents are reported in these complaints, but the inability to perform recall repairs may be a consideration for potential buyers regarding vehicle maintenance and safety.

3 complaints total
STRUCTURE (2 complaints)

STRUCTURE

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Lexus ES report issues related to vehicle structure, with one complaint detailing a crash. In this incident, the owner describes the vehicle drifting left at highway speeds without any vibration warning from the steering wheel, suggesting a potential issue with lane departure systems. The owner also notes an unresponsive steering and braking system, and a failure of the auto brake to engage, resulting in a collision with a concrete barrier. Additionally, the airbags did not deploy during the crash, and the vehicle failed to restart afterward. These issues appear at highway speeds, indicating potential safety implications for drivers.

2 complaints total1 crash
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2 complaints)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners report two primary issues with the 2019 Lexus ES's electrical system. The first involves the DCM (Data Communication Module) malfunctioning, where the SOS emergency button repeatedly contacts the call center every few minutes, creating significant distractions while driving. The second issue involves multiple malfunction indicators, such as brake system warnings and engine malfunction lights, appearing simultaneously, which leads to the vehicle unexpectedly decelerating and stopping despite acceleration attempts. These incidents occur at various times, including one noted instance in mid-July 2022. Safety implications are evident as the unexpected deceleration and stopping could lead to potential accidents, particularly on busy roads and highways.

2 complaints total
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

Owners report two distinct issues with the 2019 Lexus ES. The first involves a low-pressure fuel pump that may stop operating, leading to warning lights on the instrument panel, rough engine performance, and potential vehicle stalling with an inability to restart. The second issue describes an incident where the sunroof unexpectedly shatters while driving, resulting in an injury. These complaints highlight potential safety implications, including vehicle stalling and physical harm from glass breakage, which prospective buyers should be aware of.

2 complaints total1 injury
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint
2024-09-28

I bought a 2019 Lexus ES350 F Sport in October 2023 with 41,000 miles. Almost a year later to the day I went to a touchless car wash and now have excessive condensation in both headlights. Lexus shows these lights at $2500 a piece, plus labor to install. With modest investigating for a remedy I see I’m not alone in this predicament. Due to high cost of replacement I believe this warrants looking into whether it should be a recall or at least a safety bulletin as moisture in an electric environment will quickly become a major issue.

When Do 2019 Lexus ES Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

2,000–3,636 milesService brakes failure
3,636–18,400 milesAirbag non-deployment

Best & Worst Lexus ES Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Lexus ES Years to Buy

The best Lexus ES year is 2022 with a reliability score of 88/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2021 (88/100) and 2025 (83/100).

Lexus ES Years to Avoid

No Lexus ES years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Lexus ES maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

Lexus ES Reliability Score Trend

Lexus ES reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 83/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Lexus ES reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201880/100Excellent
201978/100Good
202083/100Excellent
202188/100Excellent
202288/100Excellent
202380/100Excellent
202480/100Excellent
202583/100Excellent

Lexus ES Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202583/100+3Excellent14
202480/1000Excellent49
202380/100-8Excellent418
202288/1000Excellent016
202188/100+5Excellent00
202083/100+5Excellent15
2019(selected)78/100-2Good333
201880/100Excellent210

2019 Lexus ES Common Questions

10 questions from 2019 Lexus ES owners.

BTTERY REPLACEMENT

* I PARKED MY CAR OUTSIDE OF GARAGE FOR TWO MONTHS AND NOW IT DOES NOT START AFTER JUMP IT START FINE DO I NEDD TO REPLACE BATTERY?

VisitorApr 22, 2026

Engine check light on

Engine check light and VSC and TRAC Off On A few days

VisitorApr 10, 2026

Coolant low on Lexus LS500

The coolant is low. The car is low mileage, 34k. No leak, no overheating, no in car messages. Just i saw two small pink dots in under carriage, NOT under the car. What is this. Can it be just i fill it then its fine? Started today

VisitorApr 5, 2026

Where are Fuses for a/c 2015 lexus gs350

Where are the fuses for a/c 2015 lexus gs350

VisitorMar 19, 2026

Hot air blows

So I have two problems my ac isn't getting cold and hot air always pours into the cabin so that's probably the blend door actuator but will that make it so my ac doesn't work Hot air always blows More than a year

VisitorMar 16, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2019 Lexus ES reliable?
The 2019 Lexus ES has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 78/100. It is reasonably reliable with 3 recalls and 33 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Lexus ES?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2019 Lexus ES include: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (7 complaints), ENGINE (4 complaints), AIR BAGS (4 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints), POWER TRAIN (3 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2019 Lexus ES have?
The 2019 Lexus ES has 3 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2019 Lexus ES expensive to maintain?
The 2019 Lexus ES should have average maintenance costs for its class. With a reliability score of 78/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2019 Lexus ES without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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