Used 1998 Lexus ES 300 Consumer Reviews
Used ES 300 for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Takes a licking and keeps ticking
John, 09/11/2010
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
15 of 15 people found this review helpful
Very are money nice and reliable car other the oil changes, replace brake calipers at 180K. Hit two deer in six months rebuilt just like new, mine has every option available, and everything works just fine, will drive it till the wheels fall off, i figure about 500k miles or more, Mercedes E class move over there's a new kid in town.
Probably the Most Reliable Ever Built!
Sim, 04/01/2009
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
Drove confidently from NV to IL with just under 199K purring like a kitten (and still purrs). Had to replace front struts and control arms, that's about it. Went through over 3 dozen new and used cars (BMW, Acura, Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi, GM, Dodge, Mazda, VW, Saab), but none, NONE like the ES300. This is car is ultra reliable and it can probably go for another 100K. This is really why many are loyal to the Toyota/Lexus brand. It's hard to beat it's quality and reliability combination. The engine will most often outlast the body and suspension. If there is a need for used car, this is the best one to get.
1998 Lexus ES 300 for sale near you
Showing 3 of 13 listings
- Base SedanMSRP: $3,850153 mi away
- Base SedanMSRP: $3,299720 mi away
- Base SedanMSRP: $5,9951,813 mi away
See all 13 listings
1998 Lexus still on the move!
Chelle, 06/09/2016
updated 06/09/2017
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
Update: Still driving the car with ZERO problems. It has 313,000 miles on it, I service it at the local Toyota dealership and get the oil changed there every 3,000 miles even though they say you can go 5,000 miles. I love this car...I can't believe it's been over 3 years already. I might have to gift this car to someone, because it's that good of a car. I am looking forward to purchasing a Toyota Highlander Hybrid in the next year or so. I bought this car used about 2 1/2 yrs ago with 210,000 miles on it. I was not deterred with the mileage at that point, because I knew it would last about 3 yrs and I was completely fine with that and the price point at $1500 asking $2,300 (but it needed a few minor repairs, so price was lowered). I've been driving this car about 20k miles a year and I have had no problems with the car itself. It has been the best car I've ever owned and with significantly less miles. The car is so quite and runs like a champ. I could drive it another 2 yrs. at least before setting aside for a newer car and I will still keep it as a back-up car, it's too good of a car to sell. If people are having mechanical issues with the car, it's probably a lack of maintenance on the car. I was guilty of that on my old car (Altima). I drove this car on long trips several times, which I was a little worried that something might happen but nothing at least 300 miles + road trips one way. I replace the oil every 3000k miles, burns zero oil and if the oil was low it was 1/4 of a quart low, but I found that to be the quality of oil not the car. I used to use Valvoline oil but recently started going the Toyota dealership and using Mobil 1 5000 (5000 mileage) and I had clean oil and it was full. I would highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a $2000 car and even it you put $500 in the car for minor repairs it will pay for itself over and over. My repair shop said they would buy the car if I did not want it when I had it inspected to purchase :) Update: Still driving the car, I just hit a new milestone 300k miles on the car! Just had the car serviced at Toyota and zero problems!! Love the car...I will keep it another year and upgrade to a Toyota Highlander hybrid 😀
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Best Car I Ever Had! Never Selling!
Rafee Ahmed, 09/09/2015
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I've owned this car for 12 and have never had any problems. Just had a regular oil change and a battery died on me once (completely natural). The sleek design of this model is so much better than the "sportier" design newer one. Sound system sounds great and I like how you can easily adjust the sound settings. Seats are extremely comfortable. Traveled to chicago and new york from virginia with no problem. Trunk is also big enough for all of my junk. There's no way I'll ever part with this car. I'm keeping it for the rest of it's life. Only wish that this had better cup holders. I've noticed thats a common complaint with this generation. One other extremely minor annoyance is that no matter what I try to to do, the check engine sign won't go away. Although there hasn't been any problems with the engine so far. And this is the car I use for everything.
- Safety
- Performance
- Interior
- Reliability
- Value
Great Car for old people and accountants
loco, 05/25/2009
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
Great reliable car, decent fuel economy, very comfortable but not too fast. Overall if you need a car for everyday that you know would not let you down you should buy it.
Used but still a lexus
avan, 09/18/2007
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I love this car, the '97 to '00 body style with it's sporty, deliberate lines stemming from its lifted rear to it's lowered front end quite simply seem to flow better than that of the newer models which, though impressive in their own right, seem more to me like that of a family ride. As far as performance is concerned this car handles like a champ and practically drives itself, it's impressive 200 hp is more than complemented by its smooth beyond reason shifting. Interior and dash controls are simple and elegant like that you would expect from Lexus. There is a downside in its poor turning radius but it's made up for by its ease of handling suitable even to that of a 5th grader. 5 out of 5.
Always buy Lexus!
Tom, 01/03/2006
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with 50000 miles on it, now it has 166000. It still runs and drives like it did when I bought. I'm so sold on Lexus now, that I'm looking into getting another one. I love the ride, it's amazingly quiet and comfortable. I highly recommend this vehicle to anyone considering. I drive 60 miles a day to/from work, and this car does great. I live in the 'country' in Texas, and drive to the 'city.' Like I said, I'll buy another one.
OMG
karyn, 07/12/2010
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have 143,000 miles on this car, keep all maintenance appointments, and treat myself to deluxe detailing at the same time. I will keep this car for many years. I still can't come up with a good reason to buy a new one. I still get compliments because people think it's a newer model. Comfort and reliability. I'd only improve upon the cup holders as a previous reviewer stated. I am a very content 1998 Lexus owner.
Moving on up
metfan, 12/18/2008
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Have been a Toyota loyalist for the last 15 years until I purchased my first Lexus about 3 years ago. I bout a 7 year old ES 300 with 100K miles on it. I have put about 50K on it since then and the car has been flawless. I change the oil about every 5K, and that is all that I have needed to do. Yea, I have the CD display problems that everyone else has, but other than that, the car is great! I get a realistic 25 mpg, and can hardly hear the car purring, even when completely stopped. I seriously do not believe they can make a car run any better than this one! I'll drive this baby for another 5 years.
Dark of night sale/surprise
Sandra Hartnell, 01/02/2009
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this car at night on the fly after an auto acc. so didn't have it checked out. The radio LED didn't work nor did the lighter/chargers-annoying. The mpg however is 24 consistently and I've gotten up to 28 after servicing across the state. When you have to step on it it REALLY kicks into high gear with a pleasant rush for this resistant to aging gal. I'd buy this car again and will probably keep it a long time. Not crazy that it looks almost exactly like a Camry but the plus is the parts are interchangeable.
Lexus is the best
Travis, 06/10/2016
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Lexus runs for ever all have to do is just the basic maintenance mines have over 297 k on it and still running fine drive it everyday
- Safety
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
I Am A Believer! Loving My ES !!!
cashmere1, 08/03/2011
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
My v6 Honda Accord Coupe got totaled and I worshipped at Honda's feet until I met my Lexus ES 300. After only a few days I see why people invest in the Lexus Brand. It is smooth as silk and I hate to even stop and get out of it because it is so much fun to drive. I love its responsiveness which I need getting in and out of city traffic. We are going to have a great time together.
I now understand the meaning of quality!
Rick in Lyndhurst, 12/04/2008
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car about a year ago with 180,000 miles on it. Since then I have put about 15k on it with absolutely no problems. I have had Toyotas exclusively in the past, and have loved them. I figured I would give this 9 year old a shot since it was priced at only $3500.00 and I needed something different. I could not be more pleased. It rides like a dream and I get surprisingly 25+ mpg on regular gas. Only problem was when I took it to the NJ state inspection. They said I had an "exhaust leak". I must have been the designated "quota failure" that day, because I drove it back to the same station in the afternoon and passed with flying colors. 2 words... GREAT CAR!!
Can't Wait to buy another one!
bwhite, 07/12/2006
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought this car with 130,000. Now has 160,000 and runs as smooth as ever. Very fast and responsive, use synthetic oil for the engine due to the mileage. It still attracts a lot of attention. A little snug for me at 6'2". Highly recommend it. I would absolutely buy another one.
Cant beat it!
Andrew, 08/20/2005
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is hands down the best car you can buy for the money. My car just turned over 100k miles and people still ask me if its new. The fit, finish, and structural quality are unmatched except by more expensive Lexus'. This car has zero road noise. A few more HP would make this car the best on the road.
Lexus ES 300
Karen Surabian, 02/24/2018
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great solid car. Have not had to have any repairs done
- Interior
- Comfort
I'm disappointed
Mark N, 12/01/2002
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I had reservations regarding this ES300 for me. Not enough performance and nose heavy. Changed to 215/60/15 Pilots which helped the nose heavy ride. Now at 48k, the transmission needed to be replaced. Bad enough at 48k. Lexus of Austin installed a rebuilt under the 100k warranty. Guess how I feel now. Looking a at Maxima GLE or Accura RL. Should have bought the 528 BMW in the first place.
Best Entry Level Luxury Car!
Stone, 10/13/2005
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought it with 39k miles, now it's 55k. Still looks and feels like new car. I think ES 300 is the most reliable used car you can buy. For 2 years of ownership, all I did was Oil Change. Car is still like one I bought 2 years ago. I strongly recommend this car to anyone who wants to buy a used car.
Great car with amazing reliability!
seattlegirl, 07/21/2008
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have owned this car for a little over a year now and am still loving it. The car had 68k miles on it when I bought it and now has 80k and runs as if it was new. The only maintenance it has needed was a new tail light bulb (the car told me it was out or else I never would have known). It's so comfy both to drive and ride in and fun to drive. I wouldn't call it sporty, but I love the comfy ride the responsive steering. considering it is a luxury car, the es300 gets great mileage. It doesn't take premium and I can get up to 26 mpg driving lots of highway. Very quiet, lots of handy features. There's even an extra outlet plugin for an iPod in the console. The styling is classic, people love it!
Happy ES300 Owner
Pabster, 08/10/2003
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased this 1998 ES300 as a certified pre-owned vehicle. My style of driving is easy going and the smoother the ride, the better. Aside from that, I want to feel relaxed, at ease, and confident that my car will be very reliable though out the years. Thus, I'm not interested in an "aggressive" car to deal with Greater D.C. Traffic. The acceleration is responsive, the transmission silky smooth, and the road noise minimal. I describe this car to my colleagues as a "Gentlemans" vehicle. If you are an aggressive driver looking for sport, then consider the IS.
Original Owner
Mouse 1999, 12/11/2016
updated 12/16/2019
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
In 2018, I needed to spend some money to fix leaks from my car that were dripping on the garage floor. In 2019, I did not pass my smog test due to lack of communication. To get my car smogged, the smog monitors were not engaging after a reset so they replaced the thermostat and one of the monitors. I also needed a new starter (the 1st time in 20 years) and they recommended something for the idling of the car in the future, an idle control value I believe it was. The car had about 133,000 miles on it, was garage kept and detailed every year or two. It still drove like a dream, but the cost to keep it going was increasing. It was in beautiful shape and I sold it for $2600.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
A Must Experience
Moe, 06/01/2005
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought the car with 69k miles; 9 months later, it has 94k miles. The car has been flawless and fun to drive. It's extremely quiet. One day I picked up my buddy from the airport and when he got in the car he was convinced that the engine was off. I silently uttered "the car is in drive." He looked but still didn't believe it until I pushed the gas pedal. Also, the car has great power and good gas mileage, exceeding my expectations. Furthermore, most of the ES300 parts are interchangable with the Toyota Camry so oil changes and other maint. parts aren't expensive. In fact, I take my car to Toyota for oil changes, however, the service at Lexus makes you feel like a celebrity...
1998 1 owner review
494tfw, 10/08/2005
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have found this vehicle to be extremely reliable. I have taken it in for routine maint. checks only. It is still very stylish even though new styles have replaced it. A car one can drive anywhere and be proud.
Still Running Strong
wilsonmd, 03/14/2006
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We've had our car for almost 6 years now. It currently has 140,000 miles on it and I am happy to say they have been carefree miles! We haven't had to do anything to this car (other than normal maintenance)! It still rides smooth and quiet!
Black on black beauty!
Kwam, 01/30/2009
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Great car. It runs very smooth and has useful features like traction control, heated seats and memory seats. I also like the adjustable suspension. In sport mode it can almost hang with a beemer.
A Driver's Car
TM, 10/11/2002
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is an outstanding car to drive! Great handling, good fuel economy, and excellent interior. The only problem I have is being charged $30 to have turn signal changed!! ( I tried to figure it out myself but just couldn't.) Anyway, highly recommended, mine has 100000 miles on it and is still running strong.
Great Car
Juan Escalante, 04/01/2005
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The ES300 is a great car for someone like me who wanted something more than a new compact car could provide. I got that when I purchased a 98 ES300. The car runs great to this day with 75K miles and the car is 7 years old. My friends still comment on how smooth and quiet the ride is. Only problem I have had is with a brake lamp. All else is great - strong engine and great mileage - up to 25 actual mpg on roadtrips with cruise control.
Once you own a Lexus you can't go back!
Joanie, 04/15/2003
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My '98 ES300 was my first Lexus, and the main reason why I bought it was because my salesman (Carl is the best!) sold it to me. None of the other car dealers gave me the time of day. So, I took the plunge and bought my first luxary car. I've now owned my ES300 for over five years, and I've have put over 135,000 miles on it without a single problem! I spent less money on maintaining this car than any car I've ever owned - all I've done is change the oil, one minor tune-up and replace the brakes and tires (and I got 85,000 miles on the tires that came with the car!). I'll never buy anything but a Lexus.
Excellent Reliable Car
johndds, 10/25/2007
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Original owner. ES 300 is extremely reliable: no engine/transmission problem. still get 19+ MPG. Timeless body design. Excellent value. However, does not drive like a BMW.
A true value for 18 years !!!
A C Navarro, 06/03/2016
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This 1998 series that I bought in May 1998 is the best model for that year based on research through Consumer Reports. With the exception of two minor electrical parts; i took over 6 years before the first brake job. I still have the original spark plug wires and ignition coils. No major engine trouble or repairs. So far, I have 329,000 miles in it and just recently replaced the original 4 shocks absorbers. The best car I ever owned based on repair maintenance cost, comfort, safety, handling and performance. Barring any major engine mishap, I expect this vehicle to last another 3-4 years............
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Love this car
Amber, 05/31/2017
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my lexus great car lasts forever
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
Very good car, but not perfect!
pahd_MN, 10/06/2003
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought the car new. Overall a good buy. I had to have the brakes overhauled under warranty. I also had to spend money out of warranty to repair noisy tower strut parts on the front end. Maintenance by Lexus while under warranty was wonderful, but after warranty costs are expensive. Still, this has been a very comfortable and reliable car with enduring styling.
Lexus is worth the extra Camry $
Jim, 04/01/2005
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Everyone appreciates that Lexus is built on the Camry platform. BUT, there's a world of difference in the feeling of luxury, ambiance and drivability. It's the sort of car that buying 'used' or 'certified' makes sens e... you just can't go wrong. The fit and finish, engineering and reliability are truly amazing. Try it ... you'll like it!
excellent ride
john, 03/13/2002
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
wow.what a ride
Awesome Car
msbehavn, 07/08/2004
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very pleased with this car. Bought it with 95k and it's been great the past 5k miles. No problems.
the best
denger, 07/10/2004
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am 77 years old and this lexus is the best car I ever owned.
Antoine's Review
Antoine, 08/09/2004
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My experience with this car has been great. You can't ask for a better entry-level luxury sedan. A wonderful automobile.
Nice machine!!
Maynard, 05/27/2002
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just plain high quality stuff!!
WOW!!!
Owner, 02/28/2002
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is another AMAZING CAR!!!
98 LEX ES 300
tumuch, 01/12/2003
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is a dream come true. After owning other foriegn car makes, this vehicle is a breath of fresh air. Its much more than the baby of the Lexus line. Its performance alone, is in a class of its own. Not to mention its flawless lines and superb handling. Reliability, off the scales. This car represents Lexus well.
Would not have anything else.
ggwes, 05/29/2002
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We are looking to sell the 1998 and get a 2001. Not only is it an excellent car, but dollar for dollar it is the best high line value out there.
new owner
Craig W., 01/13/2003
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle with 92,000 miles on it. My wife and I immediately went for a road trip and put 1,300 additional miles on it. It is an awesome vehicle. Good power and a smooth ride. We're still learning about the different features/buttons that come with it. I think one of the struts needs to be replaced, but other than that, it didn't even hint at having problems. Great car.
Love My Car
Love My Car, 02/26/2003
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I really just love this car. It is the best thing to drive. Enough power to get up and go also it has a really nice comfort level.
Great car, there are a lot of these on the road!
Greg, 06/01/2016
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
You see these cars all over as they have great motors, very reliable and comfortable as well. Never had a problem that left me stranded and never hesitated to take it on a long trip even with lots of miles on it. Highly recommend this style vehicle. Rides smoother that most cars I have ever owned.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Sweet Ride
Storm, 05/16/2002
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very very comfortable! No other vehicle is quite like a Lexus. You might say, let me try something else, you'll wish the whole time you had a Lexus.
MY REVIEW
johnb45242, 09/29/2003
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
VERY SMOOOOTH CAR. SILKY FEEL. QUIET.
Excellent
Elainbrwn2, 04/09/2002
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I test drove a Lexus and i said my next car would be a Lexus and i would say about three months later i was droving my own Lexus. If i trade it in it will before another Lexus maybe a 2001.
Drive it, you'll love it
RDL2AEL, 09/07/2002
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Drive it,you'll love it! The quietness, the smoothness, the reliability, the 6 CD's in the glove box I would buy another one.
GREAT CAR
l. wood, 11/03/2002
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
THIS IS A GREAT CAR I JUST HIT 50.000 MILES AND NEVER HAD ONE PROBLEM. THE SERVICE PEOPLE AT LEXUS HERE IN LAS VEGAS ARE GREAT BEST CAR I EVER OWNED.
Dream
bluebell, 03/06/2003
1998 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the car new 5 1/2 years ago, and have put on 41,000 miles. Absolutley no problems with the engine or any hardware or trim. I have had regular oil changes, and have only had to change the wipers and 4 light bulbs. To this day, after its washed, friends think its new. BG Philadelphia