Last updated: 2026-05-13
2023 Lexus ES Reliability Report
The 2023 Lexus ES scores 80/100 ("Excellent") with a complaint rate below the segment average. Data shows a dependable ownership experience across 4 recalls and 18 owner complaints.
Recalls
4
Complaints
18
Complaint Rate
N/A
Est. Repair Cost
$551
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,150–$2,400
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.
Top Issues to Watch
- SERVICE BRAKES (2)
- POWER TRAIN (1)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 is the last model year of the Sixth generation (XV60).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 7 years after the last refresh (2016).
- 6th generation ES (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
2013: Sixth generation (XV60) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2016: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2023: This Model Year
2023 is the last model year of the Sixth generation (XV60).
Should You Buy the 2023 Lexus ES?
The 2023 Lexus ES earns an Excellent 80/100 reliability score. 2023 is the last model year of the Sixth generation (XV60).
Across 4 recalls and 18 owner complaints, the ownership picture is dependable.
A solid choice for buyers prioritizing dependability, new or used.
Compared to the 2024 Lexus ES, which scored the same. See also the 2022 Lexus ES for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Strong reliability score
- +Low complaint frequency
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
- +Well-established generation
- +Only 18 complaints reported
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −SERVICE BRAKES: Owners of the 2023 Lexus ES report two primary issues related to the service... (2 complaints)
Compare 2023 Lexus ES With
2023 BMW 5-Series
Reliability: 70/100
2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Reliability: 63/100
2023 Acura TLX
Reliability: 79/100
2023 Volvo S60
Reliability: 70/100
2023 Tesla Model 3
Reliability: 57/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 4 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- SERVICE BRAKES (2)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2)
Recall Overview
4
recalls on record
A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2023 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
18
complaintsSafety Incidents
6
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 Lexus ES Recall Details
4 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Lexus ES. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze or display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the parking assist software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 2, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 25TB13 and 25LB06. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE25.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Mirai, Lexus LS500, LS500H, 2023-2024 Lexus ES250, ES300H, ES350, 2024 Lexus LC500, and LC500H vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Due to incorrect programming of the parking-assist electronic control unit (ECU) software, the rearview camera image may not immediately display within a couple of seconds after the shifter is placed into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the parking assist ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TA01 and 24LA01.
Buying a used 2023 Lexus ES? Check its history first
Every 2023 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.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2023 Lexus ES NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 10.5%
Safety Technologies
Lexus ESRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based 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.
2023 Lexus ES Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated 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
25–28 MPG
Running cost: $2,700–$2,950/yr
Fuel + repair
22–25 city / 31–34 hwy MPG
Hybrid
44 MPG
Running cost: $1,900/yr
Fuel + repair
43 city / 44 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 2023 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ES 250 AWD 2.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 25 | 34 | 28 | $2,150 |
| ES 350 3.5L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 22 | 32 | 26 | $2,300 |
| ES 350 F Sport 3.5L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 22 | 31 | 25 | $2,400 |
Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ES 300h 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AV-S6) | 43 | 44 | 44 | $1,350 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Lexus ES.
Inspect for electrical system warnings such as 'High Power Consumption Temporarily Limited'
Check for brake squeaking noise when reversing slowly
Test lane keep assist for unexpected jerking towards exits or intersections
Verify proper function of blind spot monitoring system
Ensure radio does not cut off at high volumes
Check for any signs of tire or fender liner damage
2023 Lexus ES Common Problems by Component
18 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 Lexus ES report two primary issues related to the service brakes. One owner describes an incident where the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated while coasting into a parking space despite the brake pedal being engaged, leading to a minor crash involving hedges and a building. A "Parking Support Brake Malfunction" warning was noted, though no injuries or airbag deployment occurred. Another owner reports a squeaking noise from the brakes when reversing slowly, which a Lexus dealership mechanic indicated is common in newer models. No specific mileage is provided for either issue, but the complaints highlight potential safety concerns, particularly regarding unexpected acceleration.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaintsOwners report that the 2023 Lexus ES experiences issues with the radio system, particularly when it randomly cuts off at high volumes and loses all sound, which results in the vehicle not providing any audible warnings or instructions. Additionally, complaints frequently mention problems with the blind spot monitoring system, described as defective by consumers. These issues do not specify mileage ranges or timelines, and no direct safety implications such as crashes or loss of control are reported. Buyers considering a used 2023 Lexus ES should be aware of these potential electronic and safety feature concerns.
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintSafety-relatedThe contact owns a 2023 Lexus ES 300h. The contact stated that while sitting idle with the engine powered off in a local parking lot, the vehicle suddenly began to roll back independently into the nearby underground garage and crashed into the rear end of another parked vehicle's front passenger-side bumper that was unoccupied. No warning lights illuminated. The air bags did not deploy. No injuries were sustained, and no medical attention was sought. A police report was not filed. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. In addition, the contact stated that a 3rd party inspector investigated the failure; however, the diagnosis was not available. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 32,186.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2023 Lexus ES 250. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle abruptly stalled. During the failure, the vehicle lost power brakes and power steering functionality, with the messages "High Power Consumption Temporarily Limited", "Braking Temporarily Disabled", and "Power Steering Temporarily Disabled" displayed. The contact was able to safely park the vehicle. The vehicle was later jump-started, but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was jump-started a second time and driven to the local dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the alternator had failed due to several electrical charging ports being used at the same time. The contact was informed that the alternator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 67,995.
LANE DEPARTURE (1 complaints)
LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaintWhile driving on the highway, whenever you approach an exit or an intersecting part of a highway, the lane keep assist will jerk hard towards that exit or towards the direction of the nonexistent line on the right or left side of the lane. Weather that line of that lane has faded out or is part of a type of highway intersection. Since the car drifts in between lines of that lane (while in LANE KEEP ASSIST LKA), it is hard to tell initially what the car is trying to do. Then it pulls hard to the right or the left, depending on where that line has disappeared. While there’s always at least one full line of that lane visible. I’ve already almost been in several car accidents since I got this car last April. Also I am driving a 2025 Toyota Corolla and I’m having the same exact problems. This is unsafe for everyone.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaintCAR STOPED WARNING LIGHTS REPAIRED TOLD FUEL PUMP DEFECTIVE FUEL LINE AND FUEL SENSORY REPLACED ALSO CAT CONVERED BROKEN REPLACED
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintSafety-relatedI ran my car’s left front corner into a concrete pillar at about 5 MPH, put it in reverse and then the car engine sounded as if it was accelerating and it moved backward at a rapid pace. I put my foot on the brake, no response, then put gear shifter into drive, no response, put shifter in neutral, no response, then rear left corner of my vehicle rammed into a concrete pillar/metal window frame. I then turned the vehicle off, restarted and drove away. I did not put my foot on accelerator to cause the rapid engine acceleration.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaint2023 Lexus ES300h with 1360 miles had rear passenger side tire blowout which ripped off the fender liner although fender liner ripped off first and flew off of car and less than two minutes later the TPMS alerted driver of low tire pressure. Tire is a Bridgestone Turanza EL440 235/45R18 94V. No foreign body was hit to cause this blowout. Happened at a speed of about 35 - 40 mph while accelerating. Driver inspected bolts and nuts on driver rear side to prevent this from repeating on the unaffected side and found nuts were not hand tightened completely. Walmart Tire Center and Discount Tire found a slash on interior side wall of tire. Lexus dealer did not honor warranty for tire or fender liner. Driver had to pay out of pocket for repair.
When Do 2023 Lexus ES Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Lexus ES Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Lexus ES Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe 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.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 80/100 | Excellent |
| 2019 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 83/100 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 88/100 | Excellent |
| 2022 | 88/100 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 80/100 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 80/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 83/100 | Excellent |
Lexus ES Reliability Compared to Other Years
2023 Lexus ES Common Questions
10 questions from 2023 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?
Engine check light on
Engine check light and VSC and TRAC Off On A few days
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
Where are Fuses for a/c 2015 lexus gs350
Where are the fuses for a/c 2015 lexus gs350
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 Lexus ES reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Lexus ES?
How many recalls does the 2023 Lexus ES have?
Is the 2023 Lexus ES expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2023 Lexus ES without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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
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.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
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.
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.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Lexus ES.
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