2011 Lexus ES 350 Review: 128k Miles And Still Going Strong
Hey everyone! Today, I want to share my experiences and insights into owning a 2011 Lexus ES 350 with 128,000 miles on the clock. This isn't just any car; it's a testament to Lexus's reputation for reliability, comfort, and understated luxury. Whether you're considering buying a used ES 350, or you're a current owner looking for advice, or you're just a car enthusiast, I hope this deep dive provides some valuable information and sparks your interest. We'll be covering everything from the car's performance and maintenance to its quirks and long-term ownership considerations. So, buckle up and let's get started!
The Allure of the 2011 Lexus ES 350
The 2011 Lexus ES 350 holds a special place in the automotive world, and for good reason. It represents a sweet spot in the ES lineage, offering a blend of modern features, proven reliability, and the classic Lexus driving experience. The ES 350 isn't trying to be a sports car; it excels at being a comfortable, quiet, and refined sedan. This is a car that prioritizes the driver and passenger experience above all else, making it an excellent choice for daily commutes, long road trips, and everything in between. The elegant styling, both inside and out, still holds up well today, and the spacious cabin provides ample room for passengers and cargo. But what truly sets the ES 350 apart is its bulletproof reliability, a trait that Lexus has cultivated over decades.
The heart of the 2011 Lexus ES 350 is its 3.5-liter V6 engine, a powerhouse known for its smooth power delivery and impressive longevity. This engine produces around 268 horsepower, providing plenty of grunt for merging onto highways and passing other vehicles. More importantly, it does so with a sense of effortless grace. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, further enhancing the car's refined driving demeanor. One of the key reasons why the ES 350 is so appealing is its reputation for reliability. The V6 engine is known to last for hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance, and the rest of the car is built to the same high standards. This means that you can expect fewer unexpected breakdowns and lower repair costs over the long term, making the ES 350 a smart financial choice as a used car. Lexus has always prioritized a comfortable and quiet cabin, and the 2011 ES 350 is no exception. The seats are plush and supportive, perfect for long drives, and the suspension soaks up bumps and potholes with ease. Road noise and wind noise are kept to a minimum, creating a serene driving environment. This focus on comfort is one of the main reasons why the ES 350 is such a popular choice for those who value a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience. If you are looking for a car that offers a blend of luxury, reliability, and comfort, the 2011 Lexus ES 350 is definitely worth considering. Its reputation for longevity and low maintenance costs makes it a smart choice for those who want a car that will last for years to come. In the following sections, we'll dive deeper into my personal experiences with my ES 350, including its performance, maintenance, and any issues I've encountered along the way.
My Personal Experience: 128,000 Miles and Counting
Now, let's get into my personal journey with my 2011 Lexus ES 350. I've owned this car for a significant amount of time, and it's become more than just a vehicle to me; it's a reliable companion that has taken me on countless adventures. With 128,000 miles on the odometer, it's safe to say that we've shared some history together. I want to share the highs and lows, the quirks and the charms, and everything in between. I believe that sharing these real-world experiences is invaluable for anyone considering owning a similar car, so let's dive in!
The first thing that struck me about my ES 350 was its overall condition, even with a fair amount of miles on it. The previous owner clearly took good care of it, and the car felt solid and well-maintained. The interior was clean and free of excessive wear and tear, and the exterior showed minimal signs of age. This initial impression was a testament to Lexus's build quality and the importance of proper maintenance. The driving experience was immediately impressive. The V6 engine purred smoothly, and the transmission shifted seamlessly. The ride was comfortable and quiet, just as I had expected. It was clear that this car was designed for relaxed cruising, and it excelled at it. Over the miles, the ES 350 has proven to be incredibly reliable. I've kept up with the recommended maintenance schedule, and it has rewarded me with trouble-free performance. Regular oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks have been key to keeping the car running smoothly. While the ES 350 has been remarkably reliable, I have encountered a few minor issues along the way. These issues were relatively minor and easily addressed, but they're worth mentioning for the sake of transparency. One of the common issues with this generation of ES 350 is a potential for the dashboard to crack over time, especially in hot climates. While my dashboard hasn't cracked significantly, I have noticed some minor imperfections. This is something to be aware of if you're considering purchasing a used ES 350, especially if it's been exposed to high temperatures. Another issue I've encountered is with the navigation system. The technology is a bit dated by today's standards, and the maps can be slow to update. While the system is still functional, it's not as intuitive or feature-rich as modern navigation systems. This is something to consider if you rely heavily on navigation, but it's a minor issue in the grand scheme of things. Overall, my experience with my 2011 Lexus ES 350 has been overwhelmingly positive. It's a comfortable, reliable, and refined sedan that has served me well. The minor issues I've encountered are far outweighed by the car's strengths, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a used luxury car. In the next sections, we'll delve into specific aspects of the car, such as performance, maintenance, and potential problem areas.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Let's talk about the performance and driving dynamics of the 2011 Lexus ES 350. As I mentioned earlier, this car isn't trying to be a sports car, but it offers a smooth and confident driving experience that's perfect for everyday use. The 3.5-liter V6 engine is the star of the show, providing ample power for a variety of driving situations. Whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating city streets, the ES 350 feels responsive and capable. The engine's 268 horsepower is more than enough to get the car moving, and the smooth-shifting automatic transmission ensures that power is delivered seamlessly. One of the things I appreciate most about the ES 350 is its refinement. The engine is quiet and smooth, even under hard acceleration, and the transmission shifts gears almost imperceptibly. This contributes to a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience, especially on long trips. The ES 350 isn't designed for aggressive cornering, but it handles well in most situations. The steering is light and precise, and the suspension provides a comfortable ride without feeling floaty. The car feels stable and planted on the road, even at higher speeds. The brakes are also effective, providing confident stopping power when needed. Fuel economy is another area where the ES 350 shines. It's not the most fuel-efficient car on the market, but it's respectable for a V6-powered sedan. I typically average around 20-22 mpg in the city and 28-30 mpg on the highway. These figures are in line with the EPA estimates, and they make the ES 350 a reasonable choice for daily commuting and road trips.
The Lexus ES 350 offers a comfortable and refined driving experience that's perfect for everyday use. The V6 engine provides ample power, and the smooth-shifting transmission ensures seamless acceleration. The ride is comfortable and quiet, making the ES 350 an excellent choice for long trips. While it's not a sports car, the ES 350 handles well in most situations, with light and precise steering and confident braking. Fuel economy is also respectable for a V6-powered sedan. One of the key highlights of the ES 350's performance is its smoothness and refinement. The engine is quiet and powerful, and the transmission shifts gears almost imperceptibly. This creates a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience that's perfect for commuting and road trips. The car's suspension does a great job of absorbing bumps and potholes, providing a comfortable ride even on rough roads. The interior is also well-insulated, minimizing road noise and wind noise. If you're looking for a car that prioritizes comfort and refinement, the ES 350 is definitely worth considering. While the ES 350 isn't a sports car, it does offer adequate performance for most driving situations. The 268 horsepower V6 engine provides plenty of power for merging onto highways and passing other vehicles. The car accelerates smoothly and confidently, and the transmission is quick to respond to throttle inputs. The ES 350 also handles well in corners, with minimal body roll. The steering is light and precise, and the brakes provide confident stopping power. Overall, the ES 350 offers a well-rounded driving experience that's both comfortable and capable. It's not the fastest or most exciting car on the road, but it's a reliable and refined sedan that's perfect for everyday use. If you value comfort, reliability, and refinement over outright performance, the ES 350 is an excellent choice. In the next section, we'll delve into the maintenance aspects of owning a 2011 Lexus ES 350, including common maintenance tasks and potential problem areas.
Maintenance and Reliability: What to Expect
Now, let's delve into the maintenance and reliability aspects of owning a 2011 Lexus ES 350. This is a crucial factor for any car, but especially for a used vehicle with over 100,000 miles. Fortunately, Lexus has a well-deserved reputation for reliability, and the ES 350 is no exception. However, like any car, it requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Understanding the maintenance schedule and potential problem areas is key to ensuring long-term ownership satisfaction. I'll share my personal experiences with maintenance and repairs, as well as some general advice based on my research and discussions with other ES 350 owners.
Lexus ES 350 maintenance is key to its long-term reliability. One of the most important things you can do to keep your ES 350 running smoothly is to follow the recommended maintenance schedule. This includes regular oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and other routine services. The maintenance schedule for the 2011 ES 350 is fairly straightforward, and it's outlined in the owner's manual. It's important to adhere to this schedule to prevent major problems down the road. Regular oil changes are crucial for engine health. Lexus recommends changing the oil every 5,000 miles or six months, whichever comes first. Using the correct type of oil is also important, and I recommend using a high-quality synthetic oil that meets Lexus's specifications. In addition to oil changes, it's also important to replace the engine air filter and cabin air filter at the recommended intervals. These filters help to keep the air entering the engine and cabin clean, which can improve performance and air quality. Fluid checks are another important part of the maintenance schedule. You should regularly check the levels of your engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid. If any of these fluids are low, you should top them off or have them replaced as needed. Lexus vehicles, like the ES 350, are known for their reliability, but they're not immune to problems. Some common issues with the 2011 ES 350 include dashboard cracking, issues with the navigation system, and potential problems with the power steering system. Dashboard cracking is a common issue in warmer climates. The sun's heat can cause the dashboard to crack over time. This is a cosmetic issue, but it can be unsightly. There are aftermarket solutions available to repair or cover the cracked dashboard. The navigation system in the 2011 ES 350 is a bit dated by today's standards. The maps can be slow to update, and the system isn't as intuitive as modern navigation systems. This is something to consider if you rely heavily on navigation, but it's not a major issue for most drivers. Some owners have reported issues with the power steering system, such as leaks or a loss of power steering assist. If you experience any problems with your power steering, it's important to have it checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Overall, the 2011 Lexus ES 350 is a reliable car that can last for many years with proper maintenance. By following the recommended maintenance schedule and addressing any issues promptly, you can keep your ES 350 running smoothly and reliably. In the next section, we'll discuss some of the common problem areas of the 2011 ES 350 in more detail.
Potential Problem Areas and Things to Watch Out For
Let's discuss the potential problem areas and things to watch out for when owning a 2011 Lexus ES 350. While this car is generally known for its reliability, it's important to be aware of some common issues that can arise, especially as the car ages and the miles accumulate. Knowing these potential problem areas can help you to be proactive with maintenance and repairs, potentially saving you time and money in the long run. I'll share my experiences and insights, as well as information I've gathered from other owners and online resources.
One of the most well-known issues with the 2011 Lexus ES 350 is the potential for dashboard cracking. This is a common problem in many vehicles, but it seems to be particularly prevalent in this generation of ES 350, especially in areas with hot climates. The dashboard is made of a material that can be susceptible to cracking under prolonged exposure to the sun's heat. While this is primarily a cosmetic issue, it can be unsightly and can potentially affect the car's resale value. If you live in a hot climate, it's worth taking steps to protect your dashboard from the sun, such as using a sunshade or parking in the shade whenever possible. If your dashboard does crack, there are aftermarket solutions available, such as dashboard covers or repair kits. Another potential problem area is the navigation system. As I mentioned earlier, the navigation system in the 2011 ES 350 is a bit dated by today's standards. The maps can be slow to update, and the system isn't as intuitive as modern navigation systems. While the system is still functional, it's not as feature-rich as more recent systems. If you rely heavily on navigation, you might find the system to be a bit frustrating. One option is to use a smartphone-based navigation app instead, which can often provide more up-to-date maps and features. Another potential issue that some ES 350 owners have reported is with the power steering system. Some owners have experienced leaks or a loss of power steering assist. If you notice any problems with your power steering, such as a whining noise or difficulty steering, it's important to have it checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Power steering problems can be dangerous if left unaddressed. In addition to these specific issues, it's also important to be aware of general maintenance items that can become more frequent as a car ages. These include things like brake repairs, suspension work, and potential issues with the cooling system. Regular maintenance and inspections can help to catch these problems early before they become more serious. Overall, the 2011 Lexus ES 350 is a reliable car, but it's important to be aware of these potential problem areas. By being proactive with maintenance and repairs, you can help to ensure that your ES 350 lasts for many years to come. In the next section, we'll wrap things up with some final thoughts and recommendations.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
To wrap up my deep dive into the 2011 Lexus ES 350, I want to share my final thoughts and recommendations for anyone considering owning one of these cars. After spending a significant amount of time behind the wheel of my ES 350, and having put a considerable number of miles on it, I feel like I have a good understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. Hopefully, my experiences and insights will be helpful to you in making an informed decision.
Overall, I have been incredibly impressed with my 2011 Lexus ES 350. It's a comfortable, reliable, and refined sedan that has served me well in a variety of driving situations. The V6 engine provides ample power, the ride is smooth and quiet, and the interior is spacious and well-appointed. The ES 350 is a car that prioritizes comfort and refinement, and it excels at those qualities. If you're looking for a car that's enjoyable to drive on long trips, and that provides a relaxed and comfortable experience, the ES 350 is definitely worth considering. One of the biggest selling points of the ES 350 is its reliability. Lexus has a well-deserved reputation for building cars that last, and the ES 350 is no exception. With proper maintenance, these cars can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. This makes the ES 350 a smart choice for those who want a car that will last for years to come. However, like any car, the ES 350 does have some potential problem areas that you should be aware of. The dashboard cracking issue is a common one, especially in hot climates. The navigation system is also a bit dated, and some owners have reported issues with the power steering system. It's important to be aware of these potential issues and to factor them into your decision-making process. If you're considering buying a used 2011 Lexus ES 350, I highly recommend getting a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic. This can help to identify any potential problems before you buy the car. It's also important to check the car's maintenance history to ensure that it has been properly maintained. Look for evidence of regular oil changes, filter replacements, and other routine services. In terms of value for money, the 2011 Lexus ES 350 is hard to beat. These cars offer a lot of luxury and refinement for the price, and they're generally very reliable. If you're looking for a comfortable and reliable sedan that won't break the bank, the ES 350 is definitely worth considering. In conclusion, I highly recommend the 2011 Lexus ES 350 to anyone looking for a comfortable, reliable, and refined sedan. It's a car that has stood the test of time, and it continues to be a popular choice among car buyers. If you take care of it, it will take care of you. Thanks for joining me on this deep dive into my ES 350. I hope you found it informative and helpful. Drive safe!
