Used 2008 Lexus ES 350 Consumer Reviews
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Love
we have over 140,000 now and have had typical maintenance like water pump alternator that is typical for that mileage. I can’t imagine owning anything but a Lexus for the rest of my life. Still in love!!!
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Delilah D'Lexus that's what I named her!
I would recommend this car to anyone especially those who drive a lot and enjoy travelling in comfort. Pros....pretty much everything. Steady. Smooth. Reliable.great looking interior.everything at your fingertips as far as controls go. Cons: sits a little too close to ground therefore it tends to bottom out on steeper inclines/declines. Can be a little hard exiting car at times if your taller than your average. I'm now looking to buy my 3rd Lexus, I'm hooked on and spoiled to a Lexus. I'll miss Delilah D'Lexus but I know her sibling is awaiting for me.
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- Base SedanMSRP: $7,95248 mi away
- Base SedanMSRP: $10,59994 mi away
- Base SedanMSRP: $8,79994 mi away
Rolling Valium
The Lexus ES350 pampers the driver and passengers in quiet isolation. The ride quality is best in class and fuel economy is excellent for a car this size. I averaged 27.5 mpg over 37K miles and typically get 31 mpg on highway (+75mph). I do a lot of highway driving and the New England winters are tough on any car, but the paint on the Lexus has more chips than my 6 year old Honda. Recommend getting dealer applied plastic film on hood to protect the new eco-friendly paint.
my lexus saved my life
This happened to me on Saturday March 20th in Laurel md at approximately 4pm while driving on rte 1 as I entered the intersection of rte 1 and cherry lane a black Ford or Mercury grand marquis or crown vic ran a red light and t-bone my es 350 totally destroying my car. Every air bag on the drivers side deployed thus saving my life the other driver was dui going approx. 70 miles per hr, I don't think that I would have survived had I not been in my Lexus. That car saved my life there's no doubt about it. I called my Lexus dealer today to get me into another es 350 asap. My family and I want to say thank for building such a great car its truly a life saver. Thanks Toyota keep up the great job. Jfman
Fantastic car
I’ve owned this vehicle for a little over 6 months, and it has been phenomenal. Due to a congenital defect in my C-spine, I need a smooth-riding car to avoid agitating my neck. I shopped around and decided on either this vehicle or a 2010 Lincoln MKZ. The interior on this vehicle is MUCH more spacious, and the car itself feels of a higher quality. The interior quality is absolutely flawless—every material is high-quality. The wood and leather feel great, and the details are taken care of, too; the grab handles are wrapped in leather. I came from driving a Mustang, and even in comparison to that car, this vehicle is fast. Transmission shifts are very smooth, and the car simply whisks you up to speed with no drama. Handling is better than I expected, but it’s not a sports car. Ride quality is absolutely key, and the car mostly delivers here. It does a fantastic job of insulating the passengers from harsh road imperfections, but the bumps are still felt. It’s not a “floaty” feel where you can’t even tell you’re on the road—if you want that, get an LS. All in all, the car is a beautiful vehicle. One thing to note for taller drivers; I’m 6’ and I only have about an inch and a half between my head and the headboard.
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Still great until the end.
84000 miles on this car begore first repairs!!!! It rides like a dream. Jumps to highway speed quickly even with a full passenger load. Great mileage even by current standards (31 hwy). Always a joy to drive. At 100,000 miles had to replace all 4 strut assemblies & a front right axle. A $3,000 expense. The headlamp covers are very discolored and cost too much to replace. Car still rides great and the engine is in great shape. UPDATE; car totaled in accident. 🙁😢. Looked and ran great until the end....129,000 miles. PS: no one injured😊
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Best ES By Far
This is my 4th ES, the last being an '04. The '08 is a vast improvement in performance and design - best car I've ever had. Ultra Lux pkg with all options except dynamic cruise control. Levinson stereo is outstanding. Answers to some problems of other reviewers: 1. Mirror tilt can be deactivated by keeping mirror adjust swith in the center position. 2. Unlock button on key fob can be linked to memory system so seats can adjust pre-entry. 3. Glove box is lit, but only when tail lights are on. 4. Regular fuel is OK, but performance is better on premium. 5. When entering destinations in the nav system, be sure you're in the proper map zone for the address - not your present location.
Like other first-time Lexus owners, disappointed
Based on the opinion of a friend, purchased a 2008 ES-350 w/ 56k miles from Lexus dealer. Immediately experienced transmission shift flares, abrupt downshifts. Software update didn't fix it, transmission was replaced. Other issues not yet addressed: soft engine knock (piston slap?), timing chain rattles briefly when engine not started for several days, plenty of interior rattles, and of course paint chipping. While baffled that a car costing over $40k new would exhibit these technical issues at av'g miles, I must say the dealer service (Sewell in Dallas) has been exemplary so far.
2008 Lexus ES350 engine troubles
I bought the car new and have had an engine noise from the beginning that sounds like a valve lifter. Lexus started out claiming no noise, then no abnormal noise, than piston slap and finally less than premium gas in the tank. I have all gas receipts and they're all premium. The NCDS (National Center for Dispute Settlement) funded by Toyota wasn't interested in the evidence disproving the Lexus claim. The noise had gotten worse and Lexus refuses to address the issue. The value of this car will be greatly diminished at trade in time.
0 complaints... coming from an Audi A6
People say, "never day never." Well, I truly believe that I will never drive another car other than a Lexus. I owned an 2002 Audi A6 2.7T from new to 70k, I had to take it to the dealer every month... Now, I have the 2008 Lexus ES 350 and this car is simply amazingly reliable and fun ride! The back of the car needs a more contemporary look, but, overall it gets a 10!
What A Great Automobile-Still love it Today
This is our 6th Lexus and we find the ES 350 excellent in all areas. We live in snow country and wanted a sedan that did well in the snow and that was extremely comfortable to drive. We trust Lexus for we have had two that had over 300,000 miles with no major repair. We didn't want to break the bank buying this car and found the car in very good condition for $9,400. We have now put 12,300 miles on this car in 7 months and couldn't be happier with it. It is fully loaded and everything works perfect. With the traction control off and quality all season tires we have not had problems one driving Rocky Mountains where we live. We get a combined fuel mileage of 26 mpg. The ride is smooth and the heated and cooled seats keeps me cool and allows the wife to set her controls to death valley hot! We are often told how beautiful our car is and that someday they hope to afford such a luxury car as our "New" Lexus. When I explain that I paid less than half for my used Lexus then they did for their Sonata or like Sedan they can hardly believe me. I know from experience that my used Lexus will last just as long as their new car will I just smile and tell them that my Automobile Broker can find them a deal like mine and several jump at the chance. Edmunds asked that I update my review to reflect my feelings about Lexus ownership. I am still totally satisfied with my Lexus. I highly recommend them. They are the best value in used vehicle today!
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The Squeakmobile
My first Lexus, but oh, what a disappointment. Love the ride and the power, but the car has developed squeaks and rattles everywhere. The whole panel behind the rear seat rattles/vibrates when I turn the radio up. The glove compartment door latch broke and won't close. It takes several tries for the voice-recognition system to get the numbers right. The interior materials are cheap: the glove compartment and coin doors are flimsy, and quality of the leather is third-rate. Also, this is not a car for tall people; all-around visibility is VERY limited; the roofline is low, the windowsills are very high and the windshield is very inclined, even the rearview mirror gets in the way.
Think about it before you buy this car
If you are a driver, this is not your car. Transmission control is poorly designed, hurts economy and has safety issues as it coasts. Too quick to downshift on slight inclines. Driver has no control! Handling feel is not too bad. Pushed hard, exhibits roll. Front drive in any car has handling problems. This car is powerful and has torque steer that can take the car in dangerous directions if pushed hard from a dead stop. Be prepared if hard acceleration is planned or required. Inside lighting is extremely poor. Design goof again. Paint may be thin and prone to scratches. Do not have the dealer service. Charges are 4x what you can by at a service shop.
Inspect before you buy
Most Lexus dealers will perform a used car inspection for a very reasonable fee. I knew this car needed some work based on it's low price and I was correct. For example even though the previous owner had done much of the recommended services, he did them at an independent garage which never changed his cabin air filter or his engine air filter. Remarkable how much better the car ran and the blower got air into the cabin after those repairs were made and this was after the blower motor had been replace in late December for about $380; Lexus feels it was over working trying to get air into the cabin to warm and cool the car. The filter only cost $42. I sure will be using only factory trained mechanics for my service needs.
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Small nitpicks in a near-perfect car
Bought it over the Lunar New Year, got everything except Ultra Luxury package. Drives like it should. Have yet to take twisties but the car should be able to hold its own despite not being a sports sedan. Otherwise, wonderfully smooth and quiet--and fast! A few chinks in its armor of perfection: despite the stylish profile, the roofline is low as a result. I am just under 6'1" and I cannot sport an explosively spiky hairstyle in this car (I love contradictions). The glove compartment is unlit, which can be an annoyance at night.
Fantastic, except for the Navigation
I replaced a Mercedes E320 for the Lexus ES350. The Lexus is one of the smoothest driving cars I have ever owned. It is quiet, rides and handles great and gets great gas mileage.
Lexus Delivers
After looking at many competing vehicles, including Mercedes E-Class, we settled on the ES 350 Pebble Beach edition, with nav and the usual amenities. The Lexus is quite reminiscent of the Benz E Class in power, room and fun to drive. The stats are quite close. Lexus keeps surprising us. We had one of the first RX 300s, and have had the ES 300. This new vehicle blows the predecessors away, with power, quiet and technology (as expected). On the minus side, the visibility could be improved with a higher windshield and back window. On the plus side is the ride quality, which is why we went back to Lexus.
Es350 input.
It takes premium fuel or at least middle grade. I think premium is the way to go. Recently on a trip from San Diego to Portland I always got 30+ M.P.G. using 100% premium. It was not unusual to get 32 or 33 + M.P.G.
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Perfect car in everyway
10 years of use and I still love this care. It is like new. the few repairs that have been done were warranty, recall items and were done quickly. I have never owned a care as reliable as this Lexus and will buy another in the future
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Don’t expect longevity. Expensive repairs.
Was fun to drive, good acceleration. Leather seats wore fast. Had to replace transmission at 135k miles. Blew head gasket and destroyed engine at 166k. Lots of expensive issues with brakes and suspension along the way. I was going to upgrade until my engine blew. I’m out Lexus.
One year on and no regrets!
This is a well-rounded mid size luxury car. The ride is impeccably smooth and quiet, the controls (with the exception of the seat heaters) are well placed, and the fit and finish are superb. My only complaint with this car is the 6 speed transmission. It tends to hesitate slightly when cornering. I'm not a "spirited driver", so this does not bother me tremendously. The gas mileage is better than expected. I average around 24 mpg (mostly city driving). On the highway, I get 30 - 35 mpg. This car is intended for drivers who value comfort and serenity over handling. Don't get me wrong, the car does handle well but there are sportier sedans on the market (but none ride as well).
Love it
I am not a car fanatic nor do I know much about mechanics, performance, etc. What I will tell you is that I just traded my 1997 Mercedez C280 in for the Lexus ES 350. I drove the 2008 BMW 328, Mercedes C300, Cadillac CTS, Audi A4 and A6. The Lexus is by far the most comfortable and quite ride. More power then you could possibly need and the nav and audio system is a dream. The car has a beautiful interior with too many safety features to list here. Lets just say I love this car.
Sticky catalytic converter
Leased this car new. Has a good ride, not as quiet inside as I would have expected, dealership says it's the wind shear from the side mirrors! When I have to accelerate a bit hard, the catalytic converter smells really bad. I had this problem with my 2005 es300 too. Does anybody else experience this? Also the driver's side seat belt buckle digs into the back of the seat and marks up the leather when you get in the car. The heated seats don't get very warm as other cars I have drove with this feature. The bluetooth does not always work properly. The front tires wore out at 10K and I did have them rotated by the dealer. The paint scratches very easily. Major torque pull could have accident.
'08 ES 350 Ultra
We did months of research for a ML 320 replacement and this sedan came in on top. The ES is smooth, quiet and comfortable The privacy tinted glass roof gives the car a look unlike others in this bracket. Nice job Lexus. MBDriver Apex, NC.
Best Car Ever
I purchased my ES 350 with the ultra luxury package. This car is the model of refinement. The interior is top notch with quality material throughout. It's one of the quietest cars I've ever driven. You cannot hear wind noise or road noise. The car has no rattles and is silent at highway speeds. The car rides very smoothly, but still handles very well. While it's no sports car, it handles better than most people would expect. With the 3.5 liter V6 you have more power than you could ever need. The car merges into trafic with ease, and passing on the freeway could not be easier. Even when you punch the engine, it's silent and does not intrude into the cabin.
Third Lexus
This is my third Lexus and the experience so far has been favorable. At first I was concerned with the keyless start because I felt I would lock myself out of the car, but now I am used to this feature. The car rides smooth and quiet and the seats are comfortable. The extra horsepower is also noted as an improvement.
Wonderful choice
After test driving Accord, Camry, and Acura I choose ES 350 based on the reliability of owning a 2000 ES 300 for 8 years and I read 200 owner reviews. I did not appreciate the heated/vented seats until I drove to LA and to Reno. I was very impressed with the 32 mpg, instant acceleration, smoothness and attention to details. I just love, love driving my second Lexus.
Toyota Lexus quality slipping
Not happy here, ES 350 and paint chips all over the hood, this car is primarily driven by 56 yr old stroke victim who drives 3 miles to Krogers few times a week, it is 08 and has 27K miles on it. Tires are shot, rattle inside that has been there for a long time. Leather seats are not holding up, gas mileage is good for the amount of power it has. This will be the last Lexus/Toyota product... I go back to 1976 Celica, 80 Cressida, 90 Celica, 2005 Sequoia 2006 Scion XB and they would be sorely mistaken thinking I would ever purchase again from them. Nuf said...
Kinda disappointed
I have driven an Acura TL for the last five years. Let me unequivocally say that the TL is a superior vehicle except in one area. The lexus has a plush and very comfortable ride. The panel on the Lexus is completely dull. The low roof line really compromises us guys over 6 feet tall. The lexus lacks many features that are standard on the TL, like satellite radio. Upgrades on the lexus like land navigation are very expensive to add. This is not a sports sedan, lots of body roll in the curves. Decent power and excellent fuel efficiency for a v 6. BE AWARE: the paint job on this model really sucks! Two paint chips the day after I drove it off the lot and there are more! Loud engine!
An oldie but a goodie
I looked and shopped a long time before deciding on the 2008 Lexus ES 350. Perfect size for me and I love, love the burgundy red color and the light tan leather inside. The V6 moves things along and the air conditioning is cold. I only wish it was AWD instead of FWD but it will do the job (I think) in the winter. The car was purchased used but the original owner only put 114,000 miles on it in 13 years. So I am well satisfied and I want to thank Edmunds for the great reviews and information that got me to this particular year, brand and model. This may be my last car and I am very proud of it.
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Mistake
I purchased my first new Lexus ES350 looking for a quieter more comfortable ride. I was shocked that the injectors were so loud we thought we had a diesel engine. It is worse when it is cold. I guess that is why they had it in the showroom when we tried it out. I returned to dealer and they said "Thats the way it is". Anti-locking brakes shook the car (ABS). I had to have the rotors turned on this new car. Wind noise in the front windows, tires out of balance and they roared. Wind noise repaired (I think). Cup holders too small. Not enough interior storage. (They did give me a Lexus ball cap.) Would I own another Lexus? Never!
My second Lexus is better than my first
This is the second new Lexus I have owned. I thought my 2004 was nice car, however, the new options and upgrades on the 2008 model 350 surpass my expectations. I highly recommend the options of the back-up trunk camera and the headlight system that moves as you turn. I cannot believe the coverage of the road. Performance, comfort, looks and increased HP again more than meets my expectations. I look forward to driving this car for many years to come.
Built for comfort AND speed
This is my second Lexus; traded in my 2001 ES 300, which I also loved. But this is a totally different car; plush, powerful, yet still quiet and reliable. I'm impressed with the fit and finish of the dash and controls, and love the Bluetooth compatibility. This may just be my all-time favorite car (except for the '66 MGB that drove me to the poorhouse when I was young). Plenty of power, yet smooth as silk.
I'm in love with my ES 350
Had the car for four weeks and still so very excited about it. Really look forward to driving it!! Just a pleasure to drive and operate all it's features. This car really coddles its driver and passengers. It feels like it's worth every penny of the price when you are behind the wheel. Takes curves and corners surprisingly well! Can't say enough good things about it!!
Would be a return customer
This car rides like your on a cloud. Not a canyon carver, that's what my Corvette is for. If you want a super reliable, comfortable ride, you can't do better than an ES 350 Lexus. It's 9 years old now and it looks and runs like new.
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Second Car - Bargain
Check service records and owner's care of the vehicle.
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Great Ride - Great Car
Bought the '08 ES350 over the '08 C-Class , '08 new Accord, & '08 TL. Very happy with the car. Extremely quiet and luxurious. Very large interior. A bit larger car then I wanted, but that is a personal preference.
Review of the Lexus ES 350
This is my third Lexus lease and I am 39 yo. Each time I looked at other options, including the BMW, Mercedes, etc., and chose Lexus. For me, it was the best value for the money, providing the luxury and comfort that I wanted. Quite frankly, I am more interested in a luxury ride than a sporty one. I have never had a problem with any of the cars. My only wish for the Lexus was a little more of a sportier feel which the ES 350 achieves and then some.
It's definitely NOT a fancy Camry
I have been a Toyota fan most of my life and always thought a Lexus was a fancy Camry - Once I drove my ES 350 I knew I was so wrong. Interior fit & finish is flawless and the MPG is a consistent 27-28 in town and 34 on the hwy. Hard to beat this with 272 hp V-6. Problems I've read about transmission and others simply are not true at least with this car. My wife and I have to fight over who gets to drive it. It's quick, safe as can be and with a spoiler, gold package, large tires it's a real "head turner". It is truly a great car and the extras you get over a Camry XLE for example are well worth it. Resale value of a Lexus is awesome.
Nice Ride
I traded in an Avalon and I am truly impressed by the difference in ride and feel. The steering is ultra smooth with no play or noises. Road noise is minimal. The backup camera and parking assist radar has turned out to be a truly useful feature. The seats are very comfortable and not fatiguing.The adaptive headlights are pretty nice as well. After having used the navigation system I can't imagine not having a car without it. Next time out I may get another ES or perhaps try one of the big boy Lexuses.
Fine Car
After 8 years with my volvo S-80 it was time for change. I looked at the new S80 and the Toyota Avalon. The S80 was much like my 2000 and too much money considering the questionable quality of my old car. The Avalon was a good driving car but seemed a bit boxy. Driving the ES 350 was the clincher. Fun, quiet, responsive and comfortable. The Lexus trunk is a better shape than either of the others and the opening much larger.
The ES is unbeatable
I purchased my ES350 in January 08 and it is a comfortable, luxurious and beautiful inside and out. I considered the Buick Lucerne, Acura TL, Infiniti G35 and BMW 3-series. The ES won out on looks, performance, comfort, quiet ride and gas mileage standards. The car certainly turns heads and gets stared at. It's very roomy and the trunk space is adequate. The interior controls are not busy and very easy to operate. This is my second Lexus. I always heard that once you drive a Lexus, nothing else will live up to it. I agree!
The Standard By Which I Measure All Cars
This is my second ES. I previously owned a 2004 ES 330 and found it to be a great vehicle. When the ES 350 was released I knew I had to have one. This car is so fun to drive and has all the bells and whistles you would expect, and more, in a luxury sedan at this price point. I appreciate the quiet ride and the improved power. The seats are insanely comfortable and all of the controls are right at my fingertips. The competition can't match the quality materials and handling of the ES 350. Lexus has an edge that the others can't match.
I'll buy again and again.
I've owned the car for 5 weeks now. I love the quiet ride and the feel inside. I love the bluetooth option for it's safety and convenience. When I go easy on the gas pedal, I get 28 MPG overall. When I need to pass, the power is there. You gotta try it to believe it.
Dependable
The first car I hated to trade in! Very comfortable ride. Classy and nicely appropriated. Loved it!!
Awesome vehicle
This of course is a rollover year for ES 350. I didn't really notice the new mirrors, but I did notice the improved interior lighting. Anyone that compares this car to a Camry needs to drive them both head to head. From the moment you get in the ES 350, you know that you are in a luxury car. I have owned 5 series BMW, Infiniti Q45 and I enjoy driving this car more. I have read that people are complaining of throttle lag and indeed when I drove my friends 2007 ES 350 I noticed some lag. He used regular gasoline in his vehicle. With premium fuel I do not notice any lag. Mine is an 08, but I suspect the issue is type of fuel.
Great vehicle
Very quite, reliable, great handling and peppy engine with good gas mileage.
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A Lot of Fun Miles Ahead
I drove the car for six years in total comfort and control. Spacious inside helps on girls beach trips. And that trunk is huge. Luxury, comfort, spacious and lots of power and pick up.
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Never ever Lexus
As a owner of 3 Lexus different generations i can definitely say the cost (40K+) doesn't correspond to the quality and i will never by Lexus again. Specially for this model: BE AWARE: The paint job on this model is really, really bad - the paint is chipping all over, the car looks very ugly and totally lost the value - what a shame for the so called luxury car. Contacted Lexus and been advised to visit Lexus body shop. The estimate was $5900 and Lexus said they will cover only $1200 ??? The interior materials are cheap - leather, dash board (was melted and was replaced due to recall)-before that the dealer said is not their problem. Other issues - bad/deteriorated window seals, engine knock (only premium fuel was used), rattle noise inside the car. Pros: smooth ride, power, good gas mileage. So as a summary: Lexus is relatively good if used for 4-5 years, after that piece of junk. I remember the advertise around year 2000/2001 "Why you should by Mercedes or BMW if you can buy Lexus for $15000 less" ........... now i know why i do not have to spent $15000 less. Hope this will help to make a decision before buying a new car.
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Lexus could really do better but didn't
If you love the feel of the road then you will love this series of Lexus because due to the stiff suspension you will feel every bump in the road. If you are broad in the beam get a different car. When I drove the car I had to shift my position numerous times to feel comfortable - the seat is not wide enough for a larger than average person. There is a wind noise on both sides of the windshield that should never be heard from a car in this price range - and owners of the same style Camry have reported the same noise as well but Toyota/Lexus report that this is normal. If you are long waisted (short legged) get a different car - it is impossible to adjust the height for comfort.