Used 2005 Lexus ES 330 Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Can't get rid of it
Roberto Fabricio, 09/10/2015
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
64 of 64 people found this review helpful
Like many I got the new car urge a couple of weeks ago. Wanted a new Lexus, the ES350. I went out to a couple of the dealerships nearby and nearly got one. But the fact is that my ten year old ES330 has me hooked. I like the traditional layout of the dash and the console, the abundant use of genuine leather and wood and the classic and classy style of the car in and out. As fantastic as the new ES350 is, there is no leather in the base car and no wood, just plastic appliqués. So I stayed with the ES330. Let's say that I looked, drove and nearly signed the papers, but when it came down to it I could not justify spending nearly $40,000 (finance included) for a new car when my 10 year old has 53,000 miles and looks and drives like a new car. I bought the car three years ago when it was 8 years old and had 33,000 miles. It had been used so sparingly that the gas door needed oil so it could open smoothly. I felt that I actually broke the car in. Since then I have put 20,000 on the car and for all practical purposes it has been like buying a new car off the showroom. There hasn't been a single problem with this ten year old car. It rides smoothly, handles nimbly and accelerates very well when I need to ease into traffic at the turnpike. The only problem I have with the car is that the headlights have dulled and clouded and I need to replace them. The factory light assembly runs $305 each. Aftermarket quality light assemblies run about $220 each. You can find them in Ebay for as little as $160 a pair. But the quality is uncertain and I am told by my body shop guy that the cheap Chinese lights leak. I plan to drive the car to the 100,000 mark - another 5 years. I believe that at that point I should still be able to get around $4,000 for car that cost me $15,000 eight years earlier. Anticipating about $2,500 in maintenance, tires and repairs in the next five years that would be $1,680 a year to operate this car - not counting insurance and gasoline. And all that comfort, luxury and style. Best car ever, as far as I'm concerned.
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Transmission hesitation is unforgivable
Lee Anders, 02/02/2005
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
29 of 29 people found this review helpful
I've owned this vehicle for three months, and now have a little over 5000 miles on it. From day one, the transmission has been unacceptable! I brought this to the dealer's attention, the day I drove it home. The transmission is programmed not to gear down until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. So when one slows to make a right or left turn - or when one slows down as in traffic on a busy freeway, then you need to accelerate, the transmission will 'hesitate' for a couple of seconds - as though it doesn't quite know what to do - then it will slam into a lower gear and lurch forward. This is not only annoying, it is dangerous in traffic.
Doesn't get much better
Julia, 12/19/2015
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
54 of 57 people found this review helpful
I got my ES330 with just under 100,000. I'm at almost 130,000 after 2.5 years. So far it's the best car I've ever owned. I've only had to do preventative maintenance on it, such as a timing belt, spark plugs and oil changes. I've gotten everything done at the Lexus dealership and at very fair prices. Thanks to this car, it will be hard to ever drive anything other than a Lexus.
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LEXUS OWNER FOR LIFE!
polarbear11, 05/28/2015
updated 05/31/2018
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
39 of 42 people found this review helpful
SIMPLY PUT THE CAR WAS BUILT TO LAST! I now have 171,000 miles and counting. M any of my passengers can't believe that my es 330 is 10 yrs old, they say it rides like a new car. I have owned 2 bimmers they are very well built and reliable cars but the cost of repairs is just crazy. I will only buy Lexus vehicles from now on.
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No Longer the owner
C. Dudley, 12/16/2015
updated 12/28/2020
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
29 of 31 people found this review helpful
After years of purchasing US made automobiles, all needing several trips to the dealer for warranty repairs, the Lexus ES330 never needed a single warranty repair in 10 years. It is quiet and rides smooth with excellent gas mileage on long trips. We are so pleased with this car, that we will look for another Lexus as a replacement. The car was traded for a 2016 Lexus ES350 in Dec. 2015.
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Bought a few days ago 77k miles
cswindle, 01/18/2013
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
This is my first Lexus and I love everything about it. It rides really well, very comfortable to drive, and is extremely quiet. Acceleration is a tad slow, but overall this is an outstanding vehicle. I will post updates every now and then in the comments section of this review.
Fantastic Car, Only Minor Quips
my03tundra, 12/12/2014
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
For many years prior to getting my Lexus, I had been driving trucks and SUVS. I had a 2003 Toyota Tundra, 2007 Honda Ridgeline, 2008 Honda CR-V, and a 2011 Ford F-150. I loved my F-150 and for a pickup it got good mileage. Sadly, I was in an accident in May that totaled my truck, but I wasn't. After that, I was without a vehicle until September when I stumbled upon the car. Literally. I had told a family member "I'm thinking about buying a used luxury car," when she did a Google search and found my car! I love the car. Comfortable, handles confidently, and has everything but USB and Bluetooth connectivity.
I know longer own the es 330 car!!!!!!!!
polarbear11, 09/29/2014
updated 04/04/2023
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
22 of 24 people found this review helpful
In 2010 i bought my 2005 Lexus es 330 with 87,390 miles on it. I did this on the Lexus name alone, well that was 4 1/2 yrs and 75,000 miles ago i now have 162,000 miles on it. The only repairs I have done is normal maintenance. the car rides like a new car still. Lexus did a fantastic job building this car. Although no car is perfect this is as close to it as your gonna get. I plan on having my Lexus for has long as it lasts, maybe i will be writing another review when i get to 300,000 miles see you then! It's 2017 now, I sold my es in 2016 with 188,000 on it and it was still running great. I sold it because i bought a 2008 LS 460 (i got a great deal) I hated to let the es go but i have no room to keep it. Overall it was just a super car, kudo's to lexus. I NO LONGER OWN THAT VEHICLE............
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Drives like new
Pana, 04/11/2017
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I just bought 2005 Lexus es 330 what 182 00miles the engine sounds good good transmission it drives like a new car it is very comfortable I drove the car 25 minutes for 10 days with a full gas tank to empty good gas miles it is like a 4-cylinder.. I am a regular man just telling you the truth
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Lexus no more
Lexus No More, 07/15/2006
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 2005 ES330/new... had it in for service 4 times. The transmission always felt like it was missing when slowing down and then accelerating. Once you got going it is a very smooth ride. Apparently the design is flawed. There is a computer chip that needs to refresh, which is fine if you never yield or slow down to go around a corner. The dealership offered a new ES3 50..with extra cost... but I just purchased a 2007 530i BMW.
103,000 Miles and going well.
TimSmith, 02/24/2010
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
18 of 20 people found this review helpful
I have put a lot of miles on this guy and have yet to do anything but scheduled maintenance. Rides like the day I bought it, gets great mileage, and still is in very good shape.
Reliable Car For Many Years
Than Nguyen, 11/19/2016
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I'm very happy with my Lexus ES330. I've driven it for more than 12 years with no problems whatsoever! Only regular maintenance required. Very quiet and comfortable ride.
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Close to Perfect
EGB, 10/07/2004
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I've had my 2005 ES330 for 2 weeks. I drive about 60 miles a day, mixed highway and city. The car is incredible: smooth as silk, QUIET cabin, no rattles, quality inside and out. You can see and feel the difference between Lexus and other Japanese brands like Acura and Infiniti, especially the interior materials and workmanship. Lexus is clearly better. Before choosing the Lexus, however, I was worried about the transmission "hesitation" problem mentioned in other forums. I test drove several 2005 ES330's. None had the transmission problem, including the one I ended up buying. My advice: test drive the car thoroughly and judge for yourself.
Best FWD used car value for under $20K
nixima, 05/26/2009
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I test drove the Passat, A4, TL, and G35. They are all nice cars but the ES330 drives more smoothly, is more luxurious, does not require premium unleaded, and is more roomy inside. The transmission isn't as bad as some of the other reviewers have stated. Once in awhile it will have problems finding the right gear but 99% of the time it's fine. Other problem areas are the steering knuckle joint makes noise during the winter (there is a TSB for this). The headlights were aimed way too low but are easily adjusted with a screwdriver. The stock Michelin tires are not very good in the snow. Overall the goods outweigh the bads for the ES330.
AWESOME ES330
Judy, 04/17/2005
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
The ES 330 is wonderful. I sold my SC 430 because I found the ES 330 to be a better car with more options and certainly more room. If it's a Lexus its fun and reliable and oh so quiet
Solid Car
M Simon, 11/28/2009
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Smooth ride. Excellent highway performance. Good gas mileage. Roomy interior. Nice interior design. Large trunk. Solid vehicle. Reasonable maintenance costs.
Love it more each day
LIONLADY, 07/24/2009
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
At first I didn't like the performance, but after driving it for three years, it seems to know my heavy foot and quick response I need. Now, it suits me to a T and my husband (a BMW) owner loves taking the Lexus on long distances.
An ES 330 with lots of problems
smirror, 06/13/2005
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought an Acura TL in 2002 and had a lot of noise problems. So when I needed to buy another car last year, I went for a Lexus brand with great reputation. But I was disappointed completely. The transmission hesitation made the driving so painful, in addition to many noise problems (rattling door, overhead, steering column and front passenger seat). In fact there are widespread complaint about the transmission problem in the Edmunds Forum discussions. My mistake was that I did not read them before buying the car. Still, I am surprised that the reviews here are pretty much all good. Go check out the Forum before you buy the ES. Don't make mistakes like mine.
Should have bought one sooner
phroadrick, 04/23/2010
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought this car for my wife when it was traded in at the dealership where I work (Buick GMC dealer, I don't sell Lexus). Have only owned it for a couple of days but boy am I impressed with this car. Fit and finish is amazing, no squeaks or rattles on a 5 yr old used car. Smooth, quiet, good performance and our 3 yr old says it beautiful. Only downside I see is never getting to drive it!
Good commuting vehicle
Brad, 09/09/2017
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
On the highway this is a great riding car and has been very dependable. My only complaint is that the transmission is very jerky. It always hesitates when you accelerate. I read the same complaint from others before I purchased it used in 2015 and find it to be annoying.
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Solid vehicle for under $20K
Dirty McNasty, 01/27/2009
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
This is my first Lexus and most certainly not my last. It's funny how people don't understand how nice a Lexus is until they actually own one. They do so many little things to their vehicles that other's don't. When you finally own a car that's made in Japan, you'll understand. Yes, there is a known transmission jerk that you learn to avoid, trust me I own one. Plus, the dealer has a flash for the ECU to almost fix it.
ES - Executive Shmoney 330
Furious Stylez, 04/02/2017
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
12 of 15 people found this review helpful
Had this vehicle for going on 2 years and it backs up for what it stands for: Lexus ES – Executive Sedan. I'm in my 30s and this serves as a professional yet chilled statement car for comfort and safety freaks. Young smart professionals can still flex with the Joneses without “doing too much” like the sporty pretentiousness of a BMW or Mercedes-Benz. The Lexus attitude prides itself on giving you loyalty and luxury in an affordably smart way. V6 is better on gas: Premo octane isn’t required on this model—Mid-grade will help you save on that shmoney! It's a commuter’s bestie and comfortable for long rides. I had to level-up and get the voice navigation with Mark Levinson sound. NO--I can't stand that it didn't come with Bluetooth interface--but no biggie (went to Walmart and bought an FM Transmitter for like 40 bucks--#HOWBOUTDAT). Whisper quiet: can barely hear the engine running and the cabin acoustics is great for when I have to clear my head from a trying day’s work at the office. Be disloyal and hit up another brand outside Lexus? I have SERIOUS doubts about that.
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bad transmission
X-Redhead, 05/28/2005
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Poorly shifting transission. It can not find next gear easily. Almost like the transmission is slipping and then takes hold and my head snaps back. Service manager says "you will get used to it". Huh?? For $37,000!! Tires, according to info that came with the car "may not last 20,000 miles". Bridgestone Turanza. Instruments hard to read in the daytime. Next time I will buy the Acura. Can't wait for the 2006 model Acura. This is the third Lexus I have owned and the first time I have been disappointed with my purchase. Also own a 2003 Mercury GM LS and at this point like it better.
For What It Is, It Is Perfect
Synthetic, 01/28/2009
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Just bought with 44,500 miles. It replaces our LS 400 which we drove for 15 years until it was sideswiped. This is a beautifully balanced car in all regards: comfortable, reliable, economical, and loaded with lux features. Unlike some other raters, this transmission is very smooth.. no issues at all (and I was looking for them). We are delighted, and look forward to another 15 year run in this Lexus. The ES is not as cushy as our LS, but it is close, and about 25% more economical on fuel.
It's a lemon.
KFW, 01/26/2006
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I don't understand the positive reviews of this car. The transmission alone warrants a low rating. For those complaining about the transmission, wait until you reach 15,000-20,000 miles and your car needs new brakes ($305 at the dealer, $150 at your family mechanic) AND new tires. This car is a LEMON. Lexus customer "satisfaction" is unwilling to take responsibility for it, while the service manager admitted he is seeing these cars come in early for brakes and tires. Buyers of the new GS are being warned about the early deterioration of the brakes, and ES owners are being ignored. In the past Lexus has offered repairs and rebates for recurring concerns. We bought these cars in good faith and because we trusted the Lexus name. I would like to see Lexus restore our faith.
2005 Lexus ES330
2005 Leuxs ES330, 07/31/2019
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
We bought our 2005 ES330 from a private party 4 years ago with 124,000 miles. The car now has 200,500 miles and still runs like a top. All we have done for maintenance in 4 years is change the oil and filter (Mobil 2 High Milage and Mobil 1 oil filter) every 5-6000 miles. I had the transmission fluid changed at about 130,000 and have only had to install brake pads, 2 front rotors and a rear caliper (myself) and an exhaust flex pipe in the last 2 years. I ran Michelin MXV4 tires and should have stayed with them and will replace them with the same tires the next time around. The ES300 gets wonderful gas milage between 23 and 28 mpg. This is the most comfortable car that I have owned and is super dependable (its a Toyota) The only thing I do not like is that the timing belt and water pump have to be changed every 100,000 and this costs from $800-1200 depending on where you have it done. I found an independent mechanic who works on Toyota's and it will run me about $800 max. From 2007 and newer you do NOT have to change the timing belt and water pump because Lexus/Toyota installed a timing chain so that eliminates a big cost that would have been needed every 100,000 miles. Do yourself a favor and buy a used Lexus ES330, they are a real bargain, especially if you can buy it on Craigslist from a one owner. Have it checked out by a reliable, local mechanic before you buy it and make sure you see all the repair records.
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Refined middleweight cruiser
Don Geeze, 07/08/2005
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Drove every competitor and many others. Passed on the new Avalon because the doors covering the dash didn't close or open properly in any but 1 of the 6 I sat in. This is my 62nd car and by far the overall best. Extras like rain sensing wipers, auto leveling headlights, ventilated seats and voice activated navigation are surpisingly good to have. Smoother and quieter than many large cruisers, but more nimble and gets decent MPG. Interior is ergonomically almost perfect (and did I mention quiet?). Exterior is unique although easily confused with a Camry. Doors close with a solid thunk, unlike the Jaguars I looked at.
Great Car
JLH, 02/16/2007
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Have had this car over 2 years. Most reliable car we have owned. Since I am 70, a lot of cars have been owned including 2 of GMs best. Had driver's door adjusted in first month and since than only oil changes and regular maintenance. There is a hesitation, but only when you want to be a jerky driver. Not as smooth as GM cars I have driven. 28 mpg on a 4000 trip last fall, driving out west where the speed is 75+ mph. I get 21 mpg hacking around. I must have an exceptional car because I have not had any of the problems others have mentioned. Looks like I will get around 35000 on stock tires.
Great by any standard
Chet Gronke, 01/06/2005
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
We purchased our Lexus ES 330 and went on a 3000 mile trip almost immediately to the NE and the performance was flawless. While we purchased the auto in Fl I had the 1000 mile checkup done in NJ. The Dealership was prompt efficient and most thorough just like Fl. No hassle and we were on our way in a little more than an hour. Being 6' 3" I found the interior room up front more than sufficient while the rear seat crowds a 6 footer's head space. Has about 99% of the quality my Benz had only sacrificing a little handling response. Lots of value here for the dollar.
It feels more expensive than it is
Ibsig, 12/23/2004
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great compromise between road performance and luxury. Doesn't handle quite like the TL, but it's far more pleasing to sit in. Probably an unfair generalization, but if you are under 40, you buy the TL--if you are over 45, you buy the ES330. If you are 40 to 45, you're on your own.
Overpriced vehicle
Mark, 04/03/2008
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Poor tires, poor transmission, poor gas mileage, no performance for the money,car has no traction in snow and we had to change the tires almost immediately because they could not handle wet conditions in New England. The new tires have excellent traction but are considerably more noisy. A little stiffer ride but worth the change.
1st time Lexus Owner
NJ Owner, 06/23/2009
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Overall, a very nice car. Cost of operation is very good. Oil change charge is the same as a regular Toyota. Not like Mercedes or BMW where it's $30 for the filter alone. MPG is 26. Good highway performance. More of a cushion ride, not a tight ride like BMW or Mercedes. Purchased pre-owned with 20K miles for $19K, with 6 months of original warranty. My only dislike is wind noise coming from moonroof. Great value!
My first non GM vehicle
charlie, 02/08/2006
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought the ES330 for the ride comfort, and it does the job. The fuel economy is not as expected (sticker ratings). The engine/transmission function is not smooth, but lots of jerk when shifting. Too soon (13K miles) to speak to quality, trusting the market over the years to be right. If the comfort was NOT my main need, I would not buy another. Just not a performing vehicle as I am used to.
From one Lexus to another
Tim Palko, 09/01/2009
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is my second Lexus, my first a 05 LS430. Drove it for 5 years and loved every minute of it. I wanted another Lexus but couldn't afford a new LS so I purchased a 05 ES330 and love it. Same great features and Lexus ride. No transmission problem noticed because I do a lot of Highway driving. As far as cup holders, well you shouldn't be drinking anyway.
Hesitation
Nancy, 12/14/2005
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought my Lexus this summer and have not been happy with it. The hesitation and jerking when starting to accelerate is not right. The dealer says this is normal for a V6 engine. If that's the case I'm selling! The drink holder between the front seats is in a bad location. If you try to use it and change gears you will spill the drink. I have been very disappointed with Lexus.
Frustrated by Lexus
Ray Wiese, 04/22/2006
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I've been wholeheartedly disappointed with the ownership experience. Dealer "acknowledges my problems" but states "Lexus has no technical fix". Problems are transmission surging when accelerating from a near stop (say, 5 mph) following speed humps or in stop/start traffic - caused by computer controlled throttle and wind noise from driver's mirror. Also, dash & door rattles that come and go depending upon outside temperature. From a brand ranked by many as being of high customer satisfactory rating, I personally have been wholeheartedly disappointed with the ownership experience. I truly want to love this care but remain frustrated with Lexus and Toyota. Expected more for the money.
DON'T BUY A 2005 MODEL
Tamra Parks, 08/08/2008
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
8 of 13 people found this review helpful
I have the same issues as others with the transmission and it drives me crazy. I complained at the 5,000 mile checkup and the dealership told me, "We know about this common complaint, but you will get used to it." In other words, too bad. My car has 63,000 miles and I have not gotten used to it. So I will never buy another Lexus because of it. This is my second one. Also, the cup holder is so flimsy that it broke and they want $380 to fix it. The quality is equivalent to what you would find in a $10,000 car.
Love it!
Kathy, 03/06/2009
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love this car! Bought this car last summer after driving an Acura TL. I have always loved the classy look of a Lexus car...I get compliments all the time on my car (it's white). Drive is quiet & feels great, have had no mechanical issues at all. The cup holder is my only complaint--it's not deep enough and you have to hold on to the cup so it doesn't tip over. Otherwise, LOVE IT!
Black ES 330
KR, 05/25/2005
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my second Lexus, and I also have a new 05 Highlander Limited. I have owned many Toyotas and I keep coming back to their products because of the exceptional build quality and bullet proof reliability (a luxury in itself). This Lexus looks great in black and the black interior is easy to maintain. The ES has a smooth ride and predictable, if uninspiring, handling.
Great Car
Cliff, 05/02/2005
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is a fine car. The only negative is the hesitation when accelerating from stop. However, while it bothers my wife, it does not bother me since I always gently accelerate and there is no hesitation. I would highly recommend the car but be sure and test drive it before buying to see if the hestitation annoys you.
BEST CAR EVER MADE EVER!!!
proudlexusowner, 04/23/2021
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased a used 2005 Lexus es330 in 2014 with 82000 miles. It now has 290,000 miles on it and the only thing I've had to put on it was an alternator in 2019. This has to be one of the best cars ever to grace earth. paint still holding up well. I went 14 months without an oil change (pandemic hit) i still drove it almost every day and it never let me down. I know a guy with a 2003 es300 he bought it with 330,000 miles 6 years ago same results just had to replace the alternator. This car takes care of you even if you don't take care of it. It's a beast that just keeps on getting it. Every person i know that has one says the same thing about this car. " you can't beat it" every car company needs the Lexus play book
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Great car
JJG, 02/24/2009
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is a great car in the snow. I went from all wheel drive to this and do not regret it. The stability control works great. It is a very quiet car low road noise.
2005 ES 330, My Impression
alboy, 10/11/2005
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Overall, this seems to be a very comfortable and smooth vehicle with one major exception, the transmission hesitation and lurch. When slowing down and then accelerating without stopping, there is a brief hesitation and then a jerk or lurch. I understand that Lexus has issue a Technical Service Bulletin to the dealers about this. It involves installing a software update for the transmission. The Service Rep at the dealer adised me that sometimes it makes things worse and, once installed, they can't undo it. I therefore choose not to do it at this time. Otherwise, it's a very good car with many nice features as long as you're not seated in the back, poor legroom.
Outstanding 2005 ES 330 with 48K miles
MJW, 11/19/2008
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've had my ES 330 for 3 months and have made one rather lengthy trip, plus drive to work every day. I haven't experienced the transmission problems that others have. The navigation system that many complain about is fine. Read the manual and plan ahead. I agree the cup holders leave a lot to be desired. The sound system is great, but I wish the CD changer was in the dash. As for gas mileage - on my 1500+ mile trip I averaged 28.65 MPG, which includes driving into some heavy head wind - average speed 70+. Not a sexy car, but I am glad a made this purchase. Perhaps I just got lucky?
I'm going to miss her
comfortable/safe, 04/11/2008
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is a luxury car, not a sport car. I have enjoyed driving this car! I will buy another someday! the comfort and feeling of a quiet, safe reliabilty comes to mind instantly! Worth every penny... I owned a Lexus.
Transmission troubles
Warren Lieberman, 03/06/2005
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
The new 5-speed transmission shifts either hard or surges with hesitation. In slow traffic the transmission falls out of gear and then surges and jerks to find the right gear. At this point Lexus refuses to find a fix for the problem with this model that now is recognized by their dealers and service departments.
The Almost PERFECT CAR
Edmond V., 08/12/2004
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great size Fun to drive
My 2005 ES 330
wej2, 01/26/2007
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
A very boring driving vehicle. Transmission hesitates a lot. The tranny can't always get the right gear selected.
Great Car!
Preston, 09/19/2005
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We compared the Toyota Avalon, Camry and the ES330 and we decided on the 330 due to interior component quality and design. We live in the desert with summer temperatures as high as 115 and we noted that the Toyotas didn't have an adequate air conditioner. It was cold but it was as if the blower was on 1/2. There is an obvious difference between the price of the Camry and the Lexus, but we feel the Lexus is twice the car for about 9K more as equipped. We are ecstatic about the ES330 and we are amazed at the quality each time we drive it. As compared with the Avalon, the Lexus feels like more quality and less nonsense without the doors over the stereo and Nav.
Watch That Dealer
Janice, 12/17/2008
2005 Lexus ES 330 4dr Sedan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Recently purchased 2005 Lexus 330, absolutely FABULOUS! Replacing brake pads and rotors because dealer pulled one over on me, but this car is my dream. One note: gas pedal seems a little sluggish, not sure if it's the high heels or not. I couldn't decide what to replace my 11yr old Mazda with and decided to go with a total luxury vehicle that is reliable and gorgeous. Believe me, I did my homework. This car "rocks"!
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