Used 2004 Lexus ES 330 Consumer Reviews
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CAR DID ITS JOB PROTECTING HUMAN LIFE...
During my ownership I have not had a single issue with the car despite purchase with 206,000 previous miles... I've driven 40-50k miles on it each year for the past 3 years. It has never been in the shop for anything other than oil changes every 3,000 miles, timing belts, brakes, fluids, etc. Engine pulls very strongly and the transmission is smooth. If you take care of these cars, they will take excellent care of you. Car is quiet and well composed. Sitting inside the car one cannot hear the engine unless you floor it, then a confident growl will emit from the hood under hard acceleration. What leaves my head spinning is the structural solidity and safety of this car. Thursday evening I was (HIT AND RUN) struck by a semi who switched lanes and failed to see me. The force of the impact slammed me off the highway and authorities estimate my car rolled a dozen times. My sunroof was open and my phone and wallet flew out during the rollover. The side curtain airbags deployed as expected and created a safety blanket that shielded me from glass and road debris. the EMT's arrived and found me with not a single scratch. They were absolutely shocked that I walked away unharmed. Of course the car was a total loss and my insurance company called me the next day and offered me just south of 7,000 towards another vehicle. I was crying as it was towed not only because my car fought so valiantly to protect me, but because of the bond I've formed with - a machine
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A Perfect Car
My ES 330 is the best car I've ever owned. It's incredibly spacious and comfortable, and stylish. The wood trim is the best I've ever seen, I can drive for 10 hours without getting at all uncomfortable, and there's plenty of room to stretch out on long trips. The engine has plenty of power and gets very, very good gas mileage. The ride is super smooth and quiet, even on the freeway. I do all the maintenance and I haven't had a single problem with it. I leased a 2002 ES 300 for 2 years and loved it so much that I traded it in and bought this new one. I would highly recommend ES 330s to anyone; Lexus has truly succeeded in its "passionate pursuit of perfection".
- Base SedanMSRP: $6,700406 mi away
- Base SedanMSRP: $3,999344 mi away
- Base SedanMSRP: $4,995338 mi away
5th owner and never would have known
Bought the ES330 with 70k miles in November 2015. its been 2 years since I owned it now. February of 2017 I was hit my a Semi and the car did great without going off the road and stopping in time. Insurance did not total it out. and I am glad!! I have not had any issues with the car but 1. the plastic that connects to the coil has cracked and the car was running on 5 cylinders. I went to a local junk yard and got the part for $2.00 and it took me about 10 minutes to do everything. car has now 106,500 miles. ride is super quite. when you need to go around a person it picks up speed fast! need to watch the speedometer as you do not feel the speed. I bought a 2006 MB E350 with 48k miles and the ride was worse then the ES330 quality and maintenances cost. I owned 23 cars in the past 5 years and I am sticking with Lexus. I hope the newer once are as well built as this one.
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371,000mi AND GOING STRONG!
We bought the ES330 used, with about 50,000mi. We have since put 321,000 MILES ON IT and it runs like a champ. Trans is just starting to pick up quirks, and we need new rear struts. We have replaced the A/C compressor and 2 alternators, as well as normal brake and oil changes- THAT'S IT. We live in the woods in Florida and our dirt road is punishing, but the car has held up staggeringly well. It's still VERY smooth, comfortable and quiet when cruising at 85mph. Will post again when we reach 400,000mi!
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Great Car!
I was looking to buy a car and mentioned I was shopping to my parents. They had this 2004 ES330 that was sitting in the garage and asked me if I wanted to buy it from them. I know they took it in for every servicing, it's never been beaten on and always spotless. The price they offered me for it was too good to pass up. So, I am now the proud owner of a silver ES330. I've been a BMW driver over the last 10yrs. (E36-M3, E46-M3, couple of 325i's - xi and is, 328i, 745i and even a '76 - 2002!) but i have to say that the only thing i dislike about my ES is the soft suspension. it's super quiet, decent power and looks great. i'm sold on the brand and will prob buy another one next time!
Lexus ES 330 is a Winner
We purchased this car used. It gets an average 29 MPG (street and highway combined), has plenty of power, interior leg room, great looks and it's easy to do oil changes. The trunk mouth is smaller than I would like but so far it hasn't been a problem. Also, the trunk can only be opened from the interior or via a button on the key. There is no key lock on the exterior. On cold days the seat heater is a plus. There's a multi CD player and a cassette player. This car handles extremely well at any speed and has not been in for any major repair. The drive is very smooth and quiet and feels very sturdy. The biggest surprise has been the gas mileage. I am very impressed with this car.
Excellent Car
I have had other luxury cars and I rate the ES330 better than all of them. The ride is smooth and quiet, power is very adequate for highway and city driving. The seats are very comfortable and sound system is excellent. I can drive five or six hundred miles and do not get overly tired. The only problem that I have had is the transmission hesitating a few times when accelerating. After 21000 miles the car still drives like new. I plan to purchase another one in the future.
What a great car!!!!
I truly love my car! Not only is it great on gas, but on a long stretch of road, this car is SUPER quiet! I can't even imagine me trading it in. I'm going to drive it until it dies on me! I will always and forever be a Lexus fanatic!
Fantastic!!
I'm a 17 year old who bought a '04 ES330 after I wrecked my original car ('05 Accord Hybrid). This car is absolutely amazing, I am a petrol head who loves cars and this car is my favorite of the five I've driven. My Honda was good but this car handles so much better and is so quiet on the road sometimes you forget you are even driving. As a young kid obviously I would like it to be a bit faster and better on acceleration but yet i've never had a problem merging on the highway or getting out of my neighborhood. This car has surpassed all expectations that I had for it as I bought it with 155k miles, it hasn't had any problems besides the normal maintenance (oil change, brake pads etc). I would recommend this car to any parent or teenager who is looking for their first car, it's reliable and when it needs to be: quick. Overall a great car and an excellent cruiser I love taking road-trips with it and you will too.
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Long term winner
Our friends said we overpaid for a "fancy Camry". Now we are laughing because this car is as good as new. They all have had to trade for new cars and can't believe our Lexus runs and looks so good after four years. Not one mechanical problem,great highway mileage and the navi/Levinson setup ROCK.
Rock solid
My second used Lexus, what else can be said? Rock solid, comfortable, very good on gas. I will have a third someday.
Love My Lexus
I am the original owner of a 2004 ES330 Lexus sedan. I am considering replacing the car with very mixed emotions. I love my Lexus. What a deal on this vehicle! At the time of purchase I got a fair purchase price, but when I think about the quality and reliability I have been fortunate to experience I have no complaints. I may choose to pass this quality vehicle on to my son who will soon graduate from college. What a lucky young man he will be!
Great Car
GREAT car. Had a 98 Camry (272K) which was flawless but started to rust. Always loved the looks and quality of Lexus and when I picked up my ES 330 and drove it home (3 hours) is was the quietest ride Ive ever been in-even @ 100 mph : ) Stereo is great (musician w/ VERY picky ear when it comes to audio). 4 door speakers-2 front tweeters-8stock woofer do the trick. Added my aftermarket 400W amp and 10 kick that added NOTHING to the quality. Only had 60K (7,500/year) so its like new as most Lexus owners baby their babies! Click in the steering wheel (steering shaft-$800) but that is it. Have been asked if it's new many times. Dont think Ill ever buy anything but Lexus from now on!
Best Car I have Ever Owned
Bought this car in March 2009 after it came off of a 4yr lease. I was hesitant to buy a car over 4yrs old w/ 40k miles. I took it to my family mechanic for a complete inspection before buying. He said "only needs new brake pads and oil change." Its very comfortable inside and rides smoothly. This car has been driven about a dozen times btwn FL-GA (450 miles each way) and we recently drove to NYC (2k r/t). The car rode great, gas mileage averaged about 25-28 on highway. I have never felt more safe in a car. I'll never buy anything but a Toyota or Lexus again!
12 Years Old - still looks great and runs excellen
I purchased this in 2013 - one owner car who traded it in at the Lexus Dealership. I bought it with 78,000 miles on it and now has 163,000 miles - The paint is perfect, with some fading only on the rear bumper. A highly reliable car, runs smooth, comfortable, and gets up to 26mpg on the highway and about 20mpg around town. - Solid / I added Bluetooth (Parrot) and have put Michelin tires on it (they are the best for both ride comfort and low noise) - I do expect to get 300K - runs as good now with 163K as it did with 78K. Great car - highly recommend it.
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Great ride/ quiet
Ive owned my ES330 for 10 months. Overall I love this car a lot. This is my third Lexus and would definitely buy another. A very quiet and comfortable car on long trips, great leather interior and feature comforts. Very smooth and quiet interior cab.
Best car I ever owned.
Of course this car is a 2004 so Is only available used. My car at 1,400 miles is cherry. It has been in a couple fender benders none my fault and was promptly repaired with paint matching perfectly. This car has never broken down, leaving me waiting by the road for assistance and at my age, 72, that has been a statement to it's make and reliability. Although my car is. 17 years old, I love it and it's performance all around. You can never go wrong buying a Lexus!
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Eds Opinion
Drove it to Cleveland and back to Orlando and it performed like a good car that it is.Had a Cadillac previously and I was more impressed with the Lexus 330 than I was with the Caddie
Best car on the road
This car is the total package: Class, comfort, performance, amenities. Every time I walk to the car, I think to myself, "That is a good looking car." Have had numerous compliments on it as well. The car has plenty of power and the acceleration will get you out of alot of traffic situations. On a recent 600 mile trip, I averaged 30 MPG at 74 MPH. In mixed city/highway I get 22 MPG. With gas prices as high as they are, I am ecstatic about this. No matter how long I drive, I do not get cramped or tired. The car is very comfortable, extremely quiet and just a joy to drive. The stereo system "rocks" and is like having a concert in your car. All in all, one of the best cars on the road. Buy it
Paying less for more
Having bailed out of a 2001 Cadillac Seville which had an unacceptable number of mechanical/electrical problems, I find this car a Godsend of a bargain. Fit and finish are flawless. There is plenty of power to get up the 8,200 foot hill that separates where I reside from the next town to the East. At about $8-10 K less than a Seville, this car has the quality that Cadillac seems to have foresaken.
Where oh where is my '97 ES 300 ?
Maybe I got a lemon but my 2004 has been a disaster compared to my stellar 1997. My wife drives like a granny so lest you think... Here is the list: 1. Routinely pulls to the left. Brakes? Alignment? If and when addressing those matters fixes the problem, they do so temporarily. Those problems also cost me tires. 2. Axle failure which happened to coincide with a failing catalytic converter. Made diagnosis difficult. 3. Main seal leaks. 4. Transmission leaks. Shifts hard or has trouble finding gear. 5. Miscellaneous: the radio knob is in no way linear; adjusting it is a crap shoot. I despise the auto detect wipers, give me intermittent any day. Uncomfortable compared to '97. Lexus cup holders are a disgrace. I do like the dual zone A/C. The saving grace? The car was relatively inexpensive used despite relatively low miles and a clear CarFax. Not worth repairing yet like having an albatross around my neck. Who am I going to sell this thing to? I want another vehicle but was diagnosed with cancer a month after purchasing this one. I am cancer- but not debt-free. Really, this is the only car out of the very MANY that I have owned that I would characterize as a nightmare. The 1997? Had 338,000 miles at trade. Worked great but needed an entire exhaust. Probably the second most reliable car I ever owned. Would not start ONE time. Cause? Corroded battery terminals. Seriously. The 2004? I almost wish I would hit a deer and put all three of us out of our misery. UPDATE 2023 - radiator cracked while visiting hospitalized parent. Shop alerted me to oozing cv axles. Regular shop said drive till I feel trouble. Trouble has arrived--dangerous shaking in right front. In the shop yet again. I have to unload this vehicle but used car prices are out of control. I always pay cash but depleting my savings during precarious times seems foolish. P. S. The "not helpful" votes have me a bit bewildered. Given how most folks love their Lexus, I acknowledged that the car must have been a lemon. But I have pointed out flaws in my vehicle that may appear in others. How is that not helpful? P. P. S. Forgot to mention window motors. Out of the four doors, only the driver side works. Passengers can SOMETIMES roll the window down but almost never roll them back up.
Beware of 2004 Transmission
I purchased an ES330 based on the Lexus reputation. The transmission hesitates when changing gears. Lexus states the transmission is OK and there is nothing they can do about the hesitation in shifting gears. So much for Lexus quality.
Rides like a Lexus
When I purchased this car in 04 I was looking at Mercedes Benz E class. Buying the Lexus I stepped up in build quality, comfort, reliability and performance, plus I kept $25,000 in my pocket! You can't beat Lexus for those qualities, and after three MBenz's I was tired of mechanical problems after 40,000 miles.
2004 ES330 - Best Yet
This will make it my third Lexus lease. The difference between my 2000 ES 300 and the new one, is like night and day. Aside from all of the safety features, the car handles and rides like a dream. Lexus knows how to build dependable and quality cars and this one is no exception. I have always felt that the ES line was the best value on the market.
Lexus ES 330
Great overall car. This is the first Lexus we have owned and are completely satisfied with this car. It is far superior to the Audi and Mercedes-Benz we previously owned. My wife is the primary driver, and she refuses to consider selling it for a newer model.
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Bad Transmissions
This car's computer has problems controlling the transmission. Car hesitates badly at low speed/gear. Lexus knows but won't acknowledge because they can't fix it. I've sent 3 letters to HQ and they tell me the car is operating as designed (without even talking to the mechanics or my dealershi, Hmmm!!). City gas mileage is BAD also, about 15-17. Read all the complaints about the trans on this site, then buy something else!
Lexus cars rock
I've owned this car for 10 years. NEVER had an issue with anything. Would HIGHLY recommend purchasing a Lexus. They are reliable and provide comfort and a very smooth ride.
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Annoyances
There are a few annoying features about this vehicle. Little things like the driver's side floor mat will not stay in place - the hook and grommet system just doesn't work. No. 2 is the turn signal that won't cancel, particularly when coming off a ramp in a sweeping curve, after going straight ahead the right signal doesn't cancel. Lexus service says they work fine! Last, and probably most important, the glare off the dash when driving into the sun makes it very difficult, if not impossible, to see anyone or thing at the roadside - polarized sunglasses help a bit. Other than theses issues, it's a great car.
he who hesitates is lost
Car rides nicely. Big problem with hesitation when you get off the gas then on again or come to a stop and try to go immediately thereafter ( 1 to 1 and 1/2 second delay). If you get off the gas under hard acceleration and back on the gas the transmission gets confused. pulls to left slightly. With regards to hesitation, Lexus says the car is "functioning as designed". They have no plans to fix it at all. If you leave your key in ignition and headlights are on, the lights won't shut off automatically if you accidently do not shut your door tightly.(I already gat 1 dead battery for this reason. I'm going back to Audi. (They care about their customers).
First Time Lexus Owner
Purchased a pre-owned 330 with 5000 miles. Very good overall vehicle. Thoroughly enjoy long drives and the sense of watching your travels on a large plasma screen when you nestle in the front seat and enjoy the window and roof views.
Why buy anything else?
After test driving many competing cars, it was quite easy to focus on the Lexus. Creature comforts are abundant. The ride is superb and quiet. Sound system is teriffic and the navigation system after conquering the learning curve is fantastic. The car is simply fun to drive and has adequate power. Cost is considerably less than the competition and car should be trouble free for years to come. Seats are extremely comfortable and the rear sunscreen is a big plus. There is nothing to dislike and is a real joy to drive.
Happy Camper
I love my car. Its an affordable luxury car. Steps to the next level. Beautiful Car Inside and Out. The fuel sucks. But it is 2.49 a gallon. But I love the car. I'm a Happy Camper!
Great car
Greta cra, reliable, comfortable
Lexus ES 330
Outstanding vehicle. Quality and unbelievable reliability. This is my second Lexus, and it is a definite step up from my Toyota V6 Camrys (which are superb automobiles too).
acceleration very poor
The new and "improved" computer controlled throttle is dangerous. The vehicle hesitates for one to two seconds whenever the accelerator is pressed; generally, when you need to move out or over, there is no pick up at all. Even the Lexus mechanics told me they would not drive it.
My ES 330
I love my 2004 ES 330, it's very fun to drive and it's also very comfortable. I like how people stare and watch me as I'm driving. it's certainly a eye catcher.
Our 2nd Lexus
We purchased an RX330 in December 2003 and have been so please that I went and bought an ES330 two weeks ago. The value is amazing! I plan on using this vehicle for business trips. What a great a ride for the money!
Rough
The cars ride and comfort is great! The transmission is some what to be desired. Rough shifting and hesitation on exceleration. Repair shops just says that the way it is. There is nothing they can do.
Lexis ES or Acura TL
The Acura dealer made a huge mistake. I told him that I couldn't commit to the TL until I drove a Lexus ES. The ES is not just quite it is silent inside. The engine is almost to quite and road noise is muted to nonexistant. The ES is as smooth as silk. Transmission shift goes unnoticed as you accelerate and the car just flows through curves. It holds the road with very little lean in and good pull out of turns. The ES is a "soft" ride and not the fastest car when the light turns green but you will never be left behind, after all this is a Lexus.
Nice Car
Great car, not a sports car so don't expect it to drive like one, great on the Highway, good on gas and insurance. A step down from my old 430 but much more affordable.
Excellent And Bland
I agree the ES does not offer GT sedan performance. Kick in another $30K, if that's what you want and get the 430. I do not feel that the power or the transmission cause any safety problems. You can lock in a lower gear ratio, if the situation calls for it and the engine will give you what you need. I don't care about Porche, G35 Coupe, GT Sedan performance any more. That's why I bought the ES. If you don't care to have high performance handling and throttle/transmission response and if you do want a quiet comfortable ride with very nice interior appointments, excellent sound system and plenty of luxury features, this car is a great buy.
Best Value Around
My Lexus is a joy to drive. The seats and driving position are extremely comfortable on long drives. Fuel economy avg of 23 mpg in mixed driving. Haven't experienced any of the complaints expressed by some on this website. Transmission works well. No pulling. Great Michelin tires (the no cost all season option). You get the most car for the money.
Wonderful Vehicle
This is one of the finest vehicles I've ever purchased. It's fun to drive, the Black Garnet turns heads and it is incredibly comfortable. For the money, you can't beat this vehicle. The added HP with the new transmission gives the 330 plenty of get up and go.
Driving pleasure of the Lexus 330
Lexus 330 I have had this automobile only two weeks and each time I drive it I enjoy it more. It is the finest driving car I have ever owned and that includes two Mercedes-Benz cars, one BMW, one Audi, two Cadillacs, one Lincoln and assorted others.
Impressive Vehicle
So far, I am very happy with my purchase. The car was bought with with high mileage but drives like a brand new vehicle. The high mileage was all highway miles and it was a 3 yr leased car. I cannot complain. I plan to stay with Lexus for a while.
A WOW-SOME CAR !
I was looking for a car that offered primarily enough luxury for a quality drive, elegance (lexus) and a great ride quality after driving a corolla for years. I tested the European luxury cars and other Japanese luxury cars but my heart, mind and money all agreed only on the ES 330. I can't ask for more since I have all what I ever wanted in a sedan. Thank You Lexus.
what a ride
very much the definition of luxury why pay more you dont need to upgrade from this one
Excellent car, but...
Purchased used with 17k mi. Transmission hesitated some at first, but now resolved with use of premium gas and transmission apparently "learning" how I drive, as Lexus states. It is an exemplary automobile in every way, except for excessive road noise. This surprised me, as I expected a much quieter ride. It is especially annoying at highway speeds on the interstate. However, I am hoping it is due to the original equipment "summer tires," and will decrease to a more tolerable level when these are replaced by all-season radials.
High quality car at an attractive price
There is a lot to like with no weaknesses. The interior fitted with leather and wood and the luminescent speedomter cluster compares favorably with the high priced luxury sedans. The new bigger engine provides more than adequate acceleration. Add in Lexus reliability, fit and finish, a good sound system, good fuel economy and a low price, and you have an attractive car.
ES330
THE LEXUS ES330 (SPORT DESIGN) IS A SPORTY YET VERY CLASSY VEHICLE. IT GIVES ME THE SPORTY HANDLING THAT I LIKE WHEN I DRIVE AND LUXARY WHEN MY WIFE DRIVES. THE ES330 COMES WITH MANY FEATURES (i.e. NAVIGATION SYSTEM)THAT MAKE DRIVING SAFE AND AT THE SAME FUN. OVERALL I AM VERY HAPPY WITH MY PURCHASE OF THE LEXUS ES330 AND OF THE A1A SERVICE THAT CAME WITH IT.