Used 2001 Lexus ES 300 Consumer Reviews
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UPDATE: Still Happy After All These Years
usedcarguyrtr, 02/28/2013
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
25 of 25 people found this review helpful
I wanted to follow up on my ownership experience; My previous post was listed by "W." and posted on 4/26/10. After having purchased this car back in Oct. 2009, it still runs beautifully and has not left me stranded once. I have put almost 40,000 miles on the car (now @ 136.5k miles) since my last post, and I still love it! I use my car for courier work (lots of stop and go driving), and it never hesitates. I had an O2 sensor replaced, which ran about $300; other than this one repair and basic upkeep (tires, oil changes, brake pads, tune-up), this car has been the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I recommend high-mileage rated synthetic oil to keep the engine at peak performance.
Awesome Used Car
W., 04/27/2010
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
18 of 18 people found this review helpful
I bought my ES300 back in Oct. 2009 after reading over Edmunds and various other websites. I finally caved in and traded my old 1997 MB C230 (210k mi, saggy headliner, expensive to maintain) for a more reliable car. While looking for cars like newer Accords & Camrys, I lucked up and this appeared locally on a car lot. For an older car, the ES300 feels right at home and better equipped compared to a newer Accord or Camry. I compromised and bought it with 98k miles (kinda high mi), and Had to recently service it for new belts & water pump at 105k miles. My mechanic stated "it's basically an expensive Toyota," which is exactly what I wanted: Everything works well, and it starts every time.
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Bought It For Transportation, Kept It For Love
Andrew Nguyen, 08/29/2015
updated 03/02/2017
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
44 of 47 people found this review helpful
This car, and brand, has a solid reputation for: comfort, quality, and luxury. I however, never cared for this Lexus nor the ES300 because I just thought it was a hopped up and pretty version of a Toyota Camry. Boy was I ever more wrong. My story with this car started when I had too many problems trying to share a car with my dad because my sister took my 1999 Toyota Camry. I have a busy schedule - multiple jobs and school, so I am rarely home and constantly on the road. Finding a time slot available for me to take the Honda Passport we were sharing, to go out and do my business, was becoming increasingly difficult. Not to mention, my dad had a knack for being late on returning the car. So, I was on Cragislist 24/7 looking for a reliable and smart choice as my first car. I had searched and researched the reviews on all potential candidates (this website is great for reviews by the way). The Lexus ES300 of this generation was my first choice, the problem was finding a good example that was good according to my standards. Roughly 4 months later, I found one that was acceptable. Owners had supposedly maintained the car, its been garaged, and it had lower mileage than the Camry I was about to buy. Long story short, with one text, led to me seeing and handing over $5,000 in cash. So, how is the car? It rides great! I mean, it's supple, it's buttery smooth, and yet, it still corners well. This car surprised me with how fast I can take it around a bend. Oh, and it's quiet too, of course. As a matter of fact, I'd have to say, this is the best riding car in terms of comfort and performance (for what it is) I've ridden in. The acceleration is plenty (has more torque than top speed). The previous owner loved bragging to me how she could take it to 100mph and still have room for more. It's no drag racer, but for daily driving around town, its got enough to dodge traffic with ease. The transmission, is so smooth. Well, I take that back. It was smooth, but after I did a transmission flush, it is butter smooth. Brakes are well, good. Not much I can say since I'm not taking this car to the track to test its limits. Steering is direct, but smooth and light. Not too light though, not like newer Toyota's where it feels like there's no resistance, the ES300 has the perfect feel for daily driving around town (or freeway too) all while giving great feel. Interior wise, for its time, just oozes quality. I mean, the wood trim is beautiful, the controls are solid, and nothing feels cheap. Except for the cup holders. Coming from a previous Toyota Camry of same generation, this is worlds apart in terms of handling and quality. I've spent time in a 2008 BMW 3-Series, and truthfully, my 2001 Lexus ES300 feels higher quality (everything is solid, not loose), looks higher quality (materials), and will last longer. Almost forgot, gas mileage. Now from my calculations, I'm getting a combined figure around 18.5mpg, not exactly great by today's standards. Although, I live in a city where things are closer, so the last time I filled up, was a month ago! Under smooth driving of course. What started off as just a smart choice for a A-to-B car, turned out to be a car I love so much and grew a new found love for Lexus and their engineering excellence. Awesome side note: my first 2 weeks of ownership, I kept getting compliments from friends, family, even strangers on how nice my car is! Just last week of the time of this writing, a person walking downtown told me I had a nice car. Not bad for a Lexus from 2001, huh? 8/31/2016 UPDATE: I've now had some good time with this car under my belt. I've pushed it to its limits now. A few quick points: 1. I've discovered the braking limits of the car (70 to 0 in rush hour). The car brakes well from about 45mph, but at 70, the car struggles to shed off speed for an emergency stop. That's not to say it failed me, as the braking capabilities did stop me from an accident, but it could be better. 2. Fuel economy is still okay at best. With me driving it 5 days a week at 70mph, I fill up every 3 weeks if I don't go out on the weekends. 3. Ride quality has dramatically changed ever since I installed new shocks. It feels like a sports car now, really. It's much stiffer and can handle corners even better! I notice the small bumps and cracks in the road now and steering feel has gotten sharper. 4. Although I can seat people in the back, the car's performance suffers greatly. I can definitely feel the difference with the extra weight. The last time I had 3 people in the rear (plus luggage) and going up my slightly inclined driveway, the rear dragged down enough to scrape the exhaust or something. Ouch. 5. Snow performance is great. I was driving in a snow storm that stopped even trucks and buses, but this little Lexus just kept putting along (with careful driving).
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Cup Holder Problem Fixed
halfandhalf, 05/23/2012
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
27 of 29 people found this review helpful
Excellent car. To improve the lousy cup holders, go to a Sprinkler Irrigation Store and buy a plastic Green Atrium Grate for a 4" drain pipe (about $6). Get the green grate, not the black grate (better fit for cups) then spray paint it black. It fits perfectly in the existing cup holders. It even has a lip that secures it to the lid of the armrest. You will think it was made specifically for the 97 - 01 ES300. Now back to the rest of the car ... amazing ride, great freeway gas mileage, quiet, excellent standard sound system, comfortable, adequate power. Mine has low miles, 48,000, and I suspect it will be a typical Lexus and be trouble free as my prior Lexus purchases have been.
A Car Built Correctly
w, clay, 11/20/2009
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in June of 2002 it had 26K miles on it. Today in Nov of 2009 it now has 189235 miles. I have only had two repairs the trans and the idle control sensor. The ride is extremely smooth and road noise is low. The sound system is great. I am amazed by the power when you want to get up and go the car responds great. It is a pleasure to drive with the sun roof open and the sound system cranked up. I will continue to buy Lexus products.
Can't Lose With The Lexus Brand
Hayden4Lexus, 05/27/2009
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
Needed a second car to drive once, maybe twice a week as wife & I carpool - this vehicle was first choice as I am repeat Lexus owner. Ride and handling are excellent and xenon lighting is awesome. Perfect compliment to our 2004 Lexus GX470. If you are reading these reviews notice the average consumer rating for this vehicle and believe me you'll feel the same if you're reasonable in your expectations (not wanting a rocket ship BMW that keeps you at the dealer and drains your wallet - remember the speed limit remains the same even though the engines are faster). You'll be pleased with this vehicle.
2001 ES - great ride
InHisname, 06/05/2009
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in 2001 with 13,000 miles on it. Someone traded it in to get a new car. I now have 148,000 and it shows no signs of slowing down. The oil is changed every 5000 miles and service is done as suggested. The car is a luxurious, reliable, smooth ride. It has all the features including moonroof. No real mechanical problems. The car handles beautifully. If I had one minor complaint it would be the turning radius. My wife's car seems to get better. That is almost not worth mentioning. I will buy another Lexus due to the quality and luxury ride they produce.
My First Lexus
Steve Parker, 04/09/2009
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used (56000 miles) because I thought it to be stunningly beautiful. I still have it because it is completely reliable, economical (especially on trips) and very inexpensive to maintain. I drive my wife and myself to college football games 300 miles away and cover the ground from the coast of Virginia to the mountains with no effort at all. This car is totally comfortable, quiet and unstressed. The sound system is excellent and we always arrive at our destination relaxed. It starts and goes effortlessly, every time. It does like 93 octane BP gas, which it gets exclusively as well as synthetic blend oil, which is changed every 5000 miles. The cabin filter is a big help.
Lexus ES300 Platinum Edition
JosephGut, 03/02/2002
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
The ES300 is by far and away the most comfortable automobile that I've ever owned, one of the most solid cars, and technologically the best I've driven. This is the type of car where you'll never say to yourself, "Gee, I wish they had done this or that" as far as the ergonomic and technical features of the car. Everything is laid out perfectly and every bell and whistle that the most tech savvy person could wish for has already been added.
This is no Camry
Lexus Forever, 02/16/2005
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I bought this 2001 ES300 on eBay and am impressed with the car even with relatively high mileage of 78K on it. There was a rear main seal leak so I spent $1300+ to get it fixed plus a 90K maintenance service (changed timing, drive belts, trans flush, coolant flush, new front crank seal and cam seal, new O2 sensor, etc). Now the car drives beatifully, quiet and powerful.
My 2nd Lexus ES 300
Lex1Dallas, 07/28/2010
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
I just bought the 2001 ES with very low mileage (55K) in near showroom condition. I was driving a 1994 ES that was a superb car, but I was ready for one a bit newer. This car is awesome. It's looks fool you into thinking it's ultra sedate and staid, but when pushed this car will surprise you in it's strength and agility. I bought it because I was already familiar with the quality of Lexus. I could have bought an even newer model, but I really liked the clean lines and angular body style of the '00 and '01 years more than the newer '02 to '06 models. It's a vehicle with understated elegance that performs remarkably well. I'm enjoying every moment driving it.
My 2nd Lex
lexusk8, 10/19/2003
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
As the title says, this is the 2nd Lexus I have owned, and so far the best (I previously owned a 1996 ES300). I bought this 2001 car with 64000 miles on it, all highway, and this was originally used as a business/company vehicle. This is a big improvement from the '96 in all aspects (exterior, interior, comfort, performance, you name it). I have always viewed the ES300 as the "perfect" daily driver for all seasons. Right now, the car has over 76000 miles, and I use the ES300 for everything (work commute, short/long trips, weekend drives). This is and has always been the budding example of Lexus quality.
sweet ride!
nwowner, 10/07/2004
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I just bought a used 2001 ES300 with 35K (23000 miles) and I love it. I have owned 4 Hondas/Acura in a row and never understood why people bought Toyotas. After driving this car I have a new appreciation for the quality of the build and the resulting ride. Acuras do not compare in quietness and quality of materials. This car is sooo quiet and relaxing. I look forward to long trips in this car. Although it is not a corner hugging rocket in the City it is still fun to drive. The stereo is awesome, I love the seats, front and rear. I think I will be looking at Lexus in the future instead of Honda/Acura
Lexus rule
Booz, 03/31/2016
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Got mine 5 years ago its been running great until a mechanic messed my joint up. Need some repairs now I found a mechanic that only deals with Lexus so make sure u go to a professional.
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- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Affordable luxury in the Lexus ES 300
MKE, 12/24/2005
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
If you want a luxury car with an affordable price, buy the 2001 ES3 00 Lexus. The ride is extremely smooth and road noise level is low. The sound system is awesome. I am amazed by the pep when I press the gas pedal. It is a pleasure to drive, and I can now relate to other Lexus owners when they brag about their vehicle. I will continue to buy used, low-milage Lexus autos.
Perfect
Bob Brandon, 05/19/2004
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I really love this vehicle. I bought it almost a year and a half ago and it is trully the best vehicle I've ever had. My friend also has one, his is a bit older 1997, but he never ever had any problems with this car. Just changes the oil and puts gas in it, thats it. This is a trully great vehicle.
Great used car deal
WaterskiUS, 06/24/2006
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought the car with 40,000 miles and live in San Diego. I immediately had to get an idle control sensor, the windshield re-sealed, and driver side door electronics redone through the warranty. Beyond that, I have had no problems. It's luxury to the T.
Great Car
SweeneySK, 06/22/2007
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This is an all around good vehicle. I love the moonroof, woodgrain dash, decent gas mileage, automatic headlights, heated seats, smooth ride as well as get up and go.
Best Car Ever Owned
Ted, 12/05/2007
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
We bought our Lexus ES new in 2001. It is now 6.5 years old and has 79,000 miles. I just replaced the battery for the first time, and other than that, I have done oil, air filters, and one set of tires. This car is the most reliable thing. We paid the ES off 2 years ago and are going to keep it as a second car. We will be purchasing a new 2008 ES 350 and hope it is just as reliable as this one has been. Also nice to know is that the resale value is still approx $13K, after 7 years! We are sold on Lexus!
New Used Lexus Owner
Ed McDougal, 04/01/2010
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Compared to my Nissan and 2001 Camry I feel it is a 20 to 30 % better built vehicle.
Best I ever had.
goodlanding, 12/02/2002
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I got the car for the wife and drove it myself for the first year and a half. I slowly realized that an incredible car it really is and don't want to kill it with miles so I gave it back to her to drive to the market with. It really is the best car I have ever had. It does everything very well. No problems, its just full of understated elegance. One of the best things is that the dealer treats me like a human, not like the chysler dealers that figure you for the idiot that got suckered into buying one of their top of the line POS. My wife and I have agreed that we will always have at least one Lexus.
Excellence on Wheels
Johnny B Drivin', 09/29/2004
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I am a former Volvo driver. After almost 8 years, I totaled mine and had to replace it in a week. Did my research and found the ES 300 to be the best car out there. My Volvo was reliable but never rode this nice. Though I've had my Lexus only a few days, I love everything about it. It is quiet, responsive, extremely well appointed and ergonomically designed. It is a joy to drive. Mine had 32K miles when I purchased it and it runs smooth and quiet. Paid 21K. Great looking inside and out.
Auto Love
Dentist, 03/08/2004
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I wanted a true luxury car that wouldn't cost a fortune, was supremely reliable, and would hold its value. After 56,000 miles, I'm still truly thrilled. My driving style is very aggressive - hard acceleration and hard cornering. I've had no problems whatsoever, the car is still wonderfully smooth and dead quiet. Whether in rush-hour traffic or on 3,000 mile trips, I'm always pampered and comfortable. Although a luxury sedan, it is still FUN to drive and well-mannered when pushed hard. I strongly disagree with those reviewers that claim this isn't a true luxury car.
Pleasure to drive
jasok, 06/11/2002
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is my first Lexus (coach Ed.), and I have to say, definitely not the last. I have had the car over a year, and have not had one problem with it. Acceleration is superb, as well and the steering and ride. All interior controls are well thought out. Excellent car!
Wonderful Purchase
Robyn L, 06/05/2004
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is the perfect used car. Quality, comfort, style, and reliability. Awesome gas mileage, so quiet I can't tell if it is running. No problems. Great warranty with car that I haven't even needed.
Great car, but not very sporty
The Rupp, 06/19/2005
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this car July 04 with 37,000 miles on it, and it was perfect. Almost a full year later, I haven't had one problem with it at all. Great winter car, too. Gas mileage is great on it as well, I'm getting about 21-23 mpg per tank (consistantly) and I don't use the highway very often. This car is PURE luxury. It's not sporty at all. If you're looking for something sporty, try the IS300 or the GS.
Very Happy ES 300 owner
Chris, 09/08/2006
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I purchased mine used with 36K miles and, like another ES 300 reviewer on this site, had to replace the idle control sensor as well! (defect?) Other than that the car has been a dream. I like it better than the newer Lexus models which have too many extra do-dads like a navigation system, etc. (I'm a man and I know directions!)
Lexus
anyone, 05/03/2003
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Very Nice, good quality, resposiveness, very quiet and smooth uptake
My Junior
sexilexy, 08/08/2003
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my first car and this car has exceeded all my expectations. It is comfortable, smooth ride, spacious and it entails luxury that only a lexus could provide. The air conditioning system is perfect for the hot summers and digital so its easy to adjust while driving. Now all my friends want to invest in one. I love the car so much I talking about it like it's a real person. That's my Junior.
2001 ES300
will, 11/16/2005
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Suspension a bit stiff = adjustable desirable? Could use larger-diameter wheels. Paint fragile, easily chipped. Darker window-tinting desirable. More-easily-accessible cabin air filter.
My experience
migoff, 04/08/2002
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've thoroughly enjoyed my Lexus. This vehicle performs well, and I find it to be very comfortable.
Great car
coronado75, 05/15/2002
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my first Lexus, I bought the Coach Edition, black in color. I've always owned Toyota cars and trucks for the past 26 years. I wish I bought a Lexus when they first came out. The ride is smooth and comfortable. This is my weekend car, and I enjoy taking it for long dirives to the coast in GA.
Junk
BB J, 01/27/2021
updated 02/03/2022
2001 Lexus ES 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 8 people found this review helpful
Junk don’t waste your time on it for even a second. Didn’t even last me 5,000 miles from when I bought it to when it completely broke down very expensive to maintain while I had it. Multiple issues in the shop atleast 5-6 times for various stuff.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value