Owners have filed 49 complaints
about the 2013 Lexus ES with NHTSA between 2013 and 2026.
The largest single group is the brakes.
Across this model's run it ranks 6 of 17 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 53
Against the median year of the Lexus ES. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
22.4% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 75
44% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
28.0%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
416.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
28.0%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
624.0%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
728.0%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
28.0%
150,000+ miles
28.0%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
May 2013peak 3Jul 2026
Complaints that involved harm
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Arlington, TXCrash
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID: 15V728000, Report Date: 11/3/ 2015, Vehicles Affected: 30,812 Consequence: A vehicle that unexpectedly brakes increases the risk of a crash. What To Do: Remedy parts for a permanent fix for this issue are not yet available. On 11/18, 2015, Toyota sent owners an interim notification and dealers will temporarily disable the PCS. When the improved PCS components are available for the permanent remedy, owners will be mailed a notification. These repairs will be performed free. Owners may contact Toyota 888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this campaign are F1V and F2E. Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing is recalling certain model year and 2013-2015 Lexus ES350 vehicles manufactured 6/18/2012 to 7/6/2015. The affected vehicles are equipped with Pre-Collision System (PCS) as optional. In these vehicles, the PCS may unexpectedly activate and apply brakes when the radar detects a steel joint or plate in the roadway as an object. To see if your specific vehicle is affected 1-800-255-3987 or nhtsa.gov NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID:19V005000, Report Date: 1/9/2019, Vehicles Affected: 1,299,448 Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death. What To Do: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, or replace the air bag assembly. Toyota is also recalling certain 2011-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS250, IS350, 2011-2016 4Runner, 2011-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2011-2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, 2011-2017 Lexus GX460, and 2011-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Toyoto.
NHTSA complaint #11686822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 45,000 milesLombard, ILCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
THE LEXUS ES 350, WAS TURNING LEFT ONTO SIDE STREET WITHIN A SUB DIVISION, AND RAN UP THE CURB AND HIT A TREE WITH THE RIGHT FRONT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE DONE TO THE CAR, AND SO MUCH DAMAGED THAT THE CAR HAS BEEN TOTALED BY INSURANCE COMPANY. DRIVER UNSURE IF VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN OR JUST LOST CONTROL. THE GREATER ISSUE OR CONCERN WAS NOT WHAT CAUSED THE ACCIDENT, BUT THAT THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AFTER THE IMPACT AND THE DRIVER BROKE THEIR NOSE AND HAS BEEN TREATED 3 TIMES IN ER SINCE CRASH. IN SPEAKING WITH REPAIR SHOP, THEY INFORMED ME THAT THERE ARE 2 AIR BAG SENSORS AT THE FRONT OF THE CAR, AND BOTH ARE NEAR THE HEADLIGHTS. HE WAS SURPRISED THAT GIVEN THE DAMAGE AND IMPACT OF THE COLLISION (TO RIGHT FRONT OF CAR BY HEADLIGHT, PICTURES ATTACHED), THAT THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.
NHTSA complaint #11296969 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 45,000 milesLombard, ILCrash1 injured
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
THE LEXUS ES 350, WAS TURNING LEFT ONTO SIDE STREET WITHIN A SUB DIVISION, AND RAN UP THE CURB AND HIT A TREE WITH THE RIGHT FRONT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE DONE TO THE CAR, AND SO MUCH DAMAGED THAT THE CAR HAS BEEN TOTALED BY INSURANCE COMPANY. DRIVER UNSURE IF VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN OR JUST LOST CONTROL. THE GREATER ISSUE OR CONCERN WAS NOT WHAT CAUSED THE ACCIDENT, BUT THAT THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AFTER THE IMPACT AND THE DRIVER BROKE THEIR NOSE AND HAS BEEN TREATED 3 TIMES IN ER SINCE CRASH. IN SPEAKING WITH REPAIR SHOP, THEY INFORMED ME THAT THERE ARE 2 AIR BAG SENSORS AT THE FRONT OF THE CAR, AND BOTH ARE NEAR THE HEADLIGHTS. HE WAS SURPRISED THAT GIVEN THE DAMAGE AND IMPACT OF THE COLLISION (TO RIGHT FRONT OF CAR BY HEADLIGHT, PICTURES ATTACHED), THAT THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.
NHTSA complaint #11296969 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 45,000 milesLombard, ILCrash1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
THE LEXUS ES 350, WAS TURNING LEFT ONTO SIDE STREET WITHIN A SUB DIVISION, AND RAN UP THE CURB AND HIT A TREE WITH THE RIGHT FRONT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE DONE TO THE CAR, AND SO MUCH DAMAGED THAT THE CAR HAS BEEN TOTALED BY INSURANCE COMPANY. DRIVER UNSURE IF VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN OR JUST LOST CONTROL. THE GREATER ISSUE OR CONCERN WAS NOT WHAT CAUSED THE ACCIDENT, BUT THAT THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AFTER THE IMPACT AND THE DRIVER BROKE THEIR NOSE AND HAS BEEN TREATED 3 TIMES IN ER SINCE CRASH. IN SPEAKING WITH REPAIR SHOP, THEY INFORMED ME THAT THERE ARE 2 AIR BAG SENSORS AT THE FRONT OF THE CAR, AND BOTH ARE NEAR THE HEADLIGHTS. HE WAS SURPRISED THAT GIVEN THE DAMAGE AND IMPACT OF THE COLLISION (TO RIGHT FRONT OF CAR BY HEADLIGHT, PICTURES ATTACHED), THAT THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.
NHTSA complaint #11296969 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 58,000 milesSAN Diego, CACrash1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I WAS PARKING MY CAR ON A COMMERCIAL COMPLEX. I AM PRESSING ON THE BRAKE AS THE CAR SLOWS DOWN. WHEN I FURTHER PRESSED ON THE BRAKE, THE CAR INSTEAD OF TAKING A COMPLETE STOP, ACCELERATED. IT HIT THE BUILDING IN FRONT OF ME. WHEN TRYING TO BACK UP, IT ACCELERATED AGAIN IN REVERSE. I PRESSED THE BRAKE REALLY HARD THEN IT STOPPED.
NHTSA complaint #10970855 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 58,000 milesSAN Diego, CACrash1 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
I WAS PARKING MY CAR ON A COMMERCIAL COMPLEX. I AM PRESSING ON THE BRAKE AS THE CAR SLOWS DOWN. WHEN I FURTHER PRESSED ON THE BRAKE, THE CAR INSTEAD OF TAKING A COMPLETE STOP, ACCELERATED. IT HIT THE BUILDING IN FRONT OF ME. WHEN TRYING TO BACK UP, IT ACCELERATED AGAIN IN REVERSE. I PRESSED THE BRAKE REALLY HARD THEN IT STOPPED.
NHTSA complaint #10970855 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2013 Lexus ES350. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale on Facebook Marketplace. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 127,000; however, a Carfax vehicle history reported the mileage at 199,000.
NHTSA complaint #11749260 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palmetto, FL
AIR BAGS
Lexus of Sarasota Fl confirmed a Faulty brake actuators causing brake , skid control and ABS light to come on which created an immediate and extremely dangerous driving situation as I was on an interstate highway driving at 70 mph. It’s been confirmed that multiply Lexus models and years have had numerous brake actuator . Multiple failures have been documented yet ONLY a few were given recall status!!This is outrageous and an immediate review of this oversight needs to be addressed
NHTSA complaint #11714970 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palmetto, FL
SERVICE BRAKES
Lexus of Sarasota Fl confirmed a Faulty brake actuators causing brake , skid control and ABS light to come on which created an immediate and extremely dangerous driving situation as I was on an interstate highway driving at 70 mph. It’s been confirmed that multiply Lexus models and years have had numerous brake actuator . Multiple failures have been documented yet ONLY a few were given recall status!!This is outrageous and an immediate review of this oversight needs to be addressed
NHTSA complaint #11714970 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lexus of Sarasota Fl confirmed a Faulty brake actuators causing brake , skid control and ABS light to come on which created an immediate and extremely dangerous driving situation as I was on an interstate highway driving at 70 mph. It’s been confirmed that multiply Lexus models and years have had numerous brake actuator . Multiple failures have been documented yet ONLY a few were given recall status!!This is outrageous and an immediate review of this oversight needs to be addressed
NHTSA complaint #11714970 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,000 milesClifton, NJ
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2013 Lexus ES 300H. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked abnormally. The service ABS, Brakes, and hazard warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed; however, no cause for the failure was determined. An appointment with the dealer was scheduled to inspect the vehicle. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
NHTSA complaint #11711407 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,000 milesClifton, NJ
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HAZARD FLASHING WARNING LIGHTS
The contact owns a 2013 Lexus ES 300H. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked abnormally. The service ABS, Brakes, and hazard warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed; however, no cause for the failure was determined. An appointment with the dealer was scheduled to inspect the vehicle. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
NHTSA complaint #11711407 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Arlington, TXCrash
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID: 15V728000, Report Date: 11/3/ 2015, Vehicles Affected: 30,812 Consequence: A vehicle that unexpectedly brakes increases the risk of a crash. What To Do: Remedy parts for a permanent fix for this issue are not yet available. On 11/18, 2015, Toyota sent owners an interim notification and dealers will temporarily disable the PCS. When the improved PCS components are available for the permanent remedy, owners will be mailed a notification. These repairs will be performed free. Owners may contact Toyota 888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this campaign are F1V and F2E. Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing is recalling certain model year and 2013-2015 Lexus ES350 vehicles manufactured 6/18/2012 to 7/6/2015. The affected vehicles are equipped with Pre-Collision System (PCS) as optional. In these vehicles, the PCS may unexpectedly activate and apply brakes when the radar detects a steel joint or plate in the roadway as an object. To see if your specific vehicle is affected 1-800-255-3987 or nhtsa.gov NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID:19V005000, Report Date: 1/9/2019, Vehicles Affected: 1,299,448 Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death. What To Do: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, or replace the air bag assembly. Toyota is also recalling certain 2011-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS250, IS350, 2011-2016 4Runner, 2011-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2011-2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, 2011-2017 Lexus GX460, and 2011-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Toyoto.
NHTSA complaint #11686822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
STRUCTURE:BODY
Lexus recall 2010-2015 models because pain is peaking. My car is a 2913 es 350 and the paint is pealing but Lexus do not want to fix it. It is the same problem as the recall Lexus because paint is peaking. What can I do or what can you do
NHTSA complaint #11685167 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Garland, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
As a dominos delivery driver, I am constantly braking in neighborhoods, on main roads, highways, parking lots, you name it. It’s important for me as a safe driver to be able to rely on my vehicle to perform properly. Recently, I’ve had multiple failures to stop as the code “c1391” has come up and has intermittently shut off proper control of my braking system. Upon reading of the faulty brake system causing this code and my vehicle listed (2013 Lexus es300h) as part of the list of vehicles affected, I knew I needed to write in as well to have my car fixed of this problem that is endangering myself and others on the road.
NHTSA complaint #11681600 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Valrico, FL
SERVICE BRAKES
Brakes malfunctioned almost resulted in a life threatening car accident. Car is at the Lexus dealership for repair. The have confirmed problem. Yes there were warning lights moments before needing the brakes and it not working whn pushed.
NHTSA complaint #11635965 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Newburgh, IN
SERVICE BRAKES
While driving on the highway electronic brake boost suddenly failed, leading to brake malfunction. This is common malfunction of this model. This leads to potentially hazardous situation when in emergency or even regular traffic breaking car would not break as expected.
NHTSA complaint #11613251 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fairhope, AL
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Roughly 6-12 months ago the dashboard on my Lexus started to melt and become sticky, creating a glare on my windshield and impeding my ability to see the road causing dangerous situations. Both daytime and nighttime driving have been affected by this defect. I’ve contacted the local dealership, but they confirmed that no recalls are available and that the only solution is for me to replace the entire dash.
NHTSA complaint #11603755 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fairhope, AL
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Roughly 6-12 months ago the dashboard on my Lexus started to melt and become sticky, creating a glare on my windshield and impeding my ability to see the road causing dangerous situations. Both daytime and nighttime driving have been affected by this defect. I’ve contacted the local dealership, but they confirmed that no recalls are available and that the only solution is for me to replace the entire dash.
NHTSA complaint #11603755 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Birmingham, AL
SERVICE BRAKES
2013 Lexus Es300h driving on [XXX] , I felt the brake didn't work during the street. It's hard to push the brake, and I almost hit the car in front. OMG, I was very scared. I saw an ABS brake light, and I tried to turn into a parking lot and find the nearest Pepboys in Birmingham, Alabama to inspect the system. I was informed of a problem with the Brake Booster Assembly. I’m sorry I can’t afford to pay the labor, service and parts at this time. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11581147 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Caguas, PR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I was driving down the highway coming up on a traffic jam put on the brakes and several warning. Lights came on the dash and my power brakes failed. I was barely able to stop the car without hitting someone. From that point forward the brakes did not work properly, the regenerative braking system did not function. also, the cruise control stopped functioning. I took the car to the Lexus dealer, they tested the car and stated it need a new brake booster brake assembly and that there was a safety warranty issue that was extended out 10 years and up to 150,000 miles and although my car only had 79,000 miles on it was three months past the warranty date and the refused. They reset the car brakes apparently and I was able to drive the car for several days while I spoke with Lexus, and then the car brakes failed again.
NHTSA complaint #11555537 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Caguas, PR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I was driving down the highway coming up on a traffic jam put on the brakes and several warning. Lights came on the dash and my power brakes failed. I was barely able to stop the car without hitting someone. From that point forward the brakes did not work properly, the regenerative braking system did not function. also, the cruise control stopped functioning. I took the car to the Lexus dealer, they tested the car and stated it need a new brake booster brake assembly and that there was a safety warranty issue that was extended out 10 years and up to 150,000 miles and although my car only had 79,000 miles on it was three months past the warranty date and the refused. They reset the car brakes apparently and I was able to drive the car for several days while I spoke with Lexus, and then the car brakes failed again.
NHTSA complaint #11555537 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Caguas, PR
SERVICE BRAKES
I was driving down the highway coming up on a traffic jam put on the brakes and several warning. Lights came on the dash and my power brakes failed. I was barely able to stop the car without hitting someone. From that point forward the brakes did not work properly, the regenerative braking system did not function. also, the cruise control stopped functioning. I took the car to the Lexus dealer, they tested the car and stated it need a new brake booster brake assembly and that there was a safety warranty issue that was extended out 10 years and up to 150,000 miles and although my car only had 79,000 miles on it was three months past the warranty date and the refused. They reset the car brakes apparently and I was able to drive the car for several days while I spoke with Lexus, and then the car brakes failed again.
NHTSA complaint #11555537 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Woodbridge, VA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
On my 2013 Lexus ES 350, three out of the four doors do not function properly and will not lock or lock with the key fob. my driver’s side front door, my driver’s side rear door, and my passenger’s side front door does not work. The doors also will not lock or unlock with the interior lock/unlock button. When the all the doors are locked, I must go to the passenger’s rear door to unlock the driver’s side front door with my cane. The manual door lock from the key fob does not work and will break if I continue turning it. The door locks will not automatically lock when the car goes in motion. These are safety issues trying to get a child or pet out of the car in case of an emergency such as a fire, an accident, or robbery. The power locks are extremely helpful for me. I am a combat disabled veteran who runs the risk of reinjuring myself using the only door that works attempting to open the door with my cane. I have had some of these power locks replaced before. Lexus says this is a mechanical issue associated with the actuators rather than a safety issue. I really believe this is a serious safety and security issue rather than a mechanical issue.
NHTSA complaint #11514204 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Winchester, MA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Hood latch and cable malfunction in that the hood wouldn't close and warning light and buzzer continuously beeped. Woburn Toyota in Woburn, MA said it was due to overuse and not a defect and not a safety issue! Not so. Hood not opened more than other vehicles I have had without such a problem. Other Lexus owners have posted similar complaints, too.
NHTSA complaint #11479664 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Scottsdale, AZ
AIR BAGS
I entered the VIN and found that my car airbag was an unrepaired recall.
NHTSA complaint #11478900 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
San Diego, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The moonroof suddenly shattered (it sounded like an explosion) while I was driving on the freeway in 70 degree weather. Initially I had no idea what it was but realized subsequently that I was shedding glass shards behind me. There were no overpasses where someone could have dropped something, I did not see a rock or other projectile, and - when I parked the car - I found nothing that from outside seemed to have struck it and/or stayed behind in the cavity.
NHTSA complaint #11464373 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Little Rock, AR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The automatic door locks have stopped working. I have had to replace 3 out of the 4 door lock actuators in the car. When they go out I am unable to use the door lock sensors and have to manually lock my doors. It also affects my ability to use the key fob remote to lock and unlock my door. I replaced 2 in 2018 and 1 in 2021
NHTSA complaint #11429552 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 32,000 milesKirkwood, MO
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
ENGINE STALLS WHEN TURNING LEFT REDUCING POWER STEERING BOOST UNTIL DRIVER LIFTS FOOT FROM GAS PEDAL AND REPUSHES TO REGAIN POWER STEERING BOOST ON CITY STREETS AT LOW SPEED FROM STOPPED POSITION.
NHTSA complaint #11388921 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 34,200 milesWestminster, CO
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
THE PCS (PRE COLLISION SYSTEM) WARNING ICON FLASHED IN THE DISPLAY INDICATING THAT THE PCS WAS TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN ON A HIGHWAY. PULLED OVER TO LOOK IN THE OWNERS MANUAL ONLY TO FIND THAT THE MANUAL TOLD ME TO STOP. WE PROCEEDED TO RETURN HOME WITHOUT EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE HANDLING. I REALLY DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE CAR NOT KNOWING IF THE PCS SYSTEM WILL FAIL.
NHTSA complaint #11362293 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 34,200 milesWestminster, CO
SERVICE BRAKES
THE PCS (PRE COLLISION SYSTEM) WARNING ICON FLASHED IN THE DISPLAY INDICATING THAT THE PCS WAS TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN ON A HIGHWAY. PULLED OVER TO LOOK IN THE OWNERS MANUAL ONLY TO FIND THAT THE MANUAL TOLD ME TO STOP. WE PROCEEDED TO RETURN HOME WITHOUT EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE HANDLING. I REALLY DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE CAR NOT KNOWING IF THE PCS SYSTEM WILL FAIL.
NHTSA complaint #11362293 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.