2013 Lexus ES

34 complaints on file, page 1 of 2.

1. Filed Oct 1, 2026Failure Sep 13, 2026THE Woodlands, TXService brakes

   Brake Master Cylinder need to be replaced due to internal malfunction. If not replaced, the master cylinder may fail and I could face a safety issue in the form of brake pedal or brake failure. The problem has been confirmed by Lexus Southwest Houston who performed diagnostic and found code C1391 to be present. The dealer cannot initiate goodwill request regarding an expired CSP despite my low mileage. I called Lexus and open a case. The case manager confirmed the code was present with the dealership who perform the diagnosis. Case manager denied goodwill based strictly on calendar expiration date of the CSP despite low mileage at 60% of the CSP allowance of 150k. I was given no option to escalate the case and my case was subsequently closed. My auto safety concern with this brake malfunction was not resolved and I now face an almost $4,000 bill on a known factory and safety defect. This defect is documented under the CSP ZLM. It was a latent defect that was a ticking time bomb. Due to light mileage usage, the defect didn't surface until now. In reviewing my service history, I did check on my brakes in 2020 but they needed a code for the program. That was when they re-extended the expiration of the CSP. I am the first owner with current mileage around 95000. I have service history with the dealership and the most recent repair was the hybrid battery pack at 80k miles - also low mileage. To summarize, Lexus is not taking accountability for this safety defect and denied my case based strictly on calendar date expiration of the CSP. I was unable to obtain an out of warranty goodwill due to low mileage despite proving the code and voicing the safety concerns of this known defect. More importantly, this is a safety failure as a total loss of brake assist at 96,000 miles is a major safety concern.

   NHTSA complaint 11768209
2. Filed Jul 9, 2026Failure Jul 9, 2026199,000 milesDickerson, TXSpeedometer/odometer

   Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2013 Lexus ES350. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale on Facebook Marketplace. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 127,000; however, a Carfax vehicle history reported the mileage at 199,000.

   NHTSA complaint 11749260
3. Filed Feb 2, 2026Failure Jan 31, 2026Palmetto, FLAir bags, Automatic emergency braking, Service brakes

   Lexus of Sarasota Fl confirmed a Faulty brake actuators causing brake , skid control and ABS light to come on which created an immediate and extremely dangerous driving situation as I was on an interstate highway driving at 70 mph. It’s been confirmed that multiply Lexus models and years have had numerous brake actuator . Multiple failures have been documented yet ONLY a few were given recall status!!This is outrageous and an immediate review of this oversight needs to be addressed

   NHTSA complaint 11714970
4. Filed Jan 16, 2026Failure Jan 10, 2026130,000 milesClifton, NJHazard flashing warning lights, Service brakes, Hydraulic

   The contact owns a 2013 Lexus ES 300H. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked abnormally. The service ABS, Brakes, and hazard warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed; however, no cause for the failure was determined. An appointment with the dealer was scheduled to inspect the vehicle. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

   NHTSA complaint 11711407
5. Filed Sep 12, 2025Failure Aug 15, 2025Arlington, TXWarningsCrash

   NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID: 15V728000, Report Date: 11/3/ 2015, Vehicles Affected: 30,812 Consequence: A vehicle that unexpectedly brakes increases the risk of a crash. What To Do: Remedy parts for a permanent fix for this issue are not yet available. On 11/18, 2015, Toyota sent owners an interim notification and dealers will temporarily disable the PCS. When the improved PCS components are available for the permanent remedy, owners will be mailed a notification. These repairs will be performed free. Owners may contact Toyota 888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this campaign are F1V and F2E. Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing is recalling certain model year and 2013-2015 Lexus ES350 vehicles manufactured 6/18/2012 to 7/6/2015. The affected vehicles are equipped with Pre-Collision System (PCS) as optional. In these vehicles, the PCS may unexpectedly activate and apply brakes when the radar detects a steel joint or plate in the roadway as an object. To see if your specific vehicle is affected 1-800-255-3987 or nhtsa.gov NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID:19V005000, Report Date: 1/9/2019, Vehicles Affected: 1,299,448 Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death. What To Do: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, or replace the air bag assembly. Toyota is also recalling certain 2011-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS250, IS350, 2011-2016 4Runner, 2011-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2011-2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, 2011-2017 Lexus GX460, and 2011-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Toyoto.

   NHTSA complaint 11686822
6. Filed Sep 4, 2025Failure Jan 15, 2025Rancho Palos Verdes, CABody

   Lexus recall 2010-2015 models because pain is peaking. My car is a 2913 es 350 and the paint is pealing but Lexus do not want to fix it. It is the same problem as the recall Lexus because paint is peaking. What can I do or what can you do

   NHTSA complaint 11685167
7. Filed Aug 19, 2025Failure Aug 12, 2025garland, TXService brakes

   As a dominos delivery driver, I am constantly braking in neighborhoods, on main roads, highways, parking lots, you name it. It’s important for me as a safe driver to be able to rely on my vehicle to perform properly. Recently, I’ve had multiple failures to stop as the code “c1391” has come up and has intermittently shut off proper control of my braking system. Upon reading of the faulty brake system causing this code and my vehicle listed (2013 Lexus es300h) as part of the list of vehicles affected, I knew I needed to write in as well to have my car fixed of this problem that is endangering myself and others on the road.

   NHTSA complaint 11681600
8. Filed Jan 14, 2025Failure Dec 31, 2024valrico, FLService brakes

   Brakes malfunctioned almost resulted in a life threatening car accident. Car is at the Lexus dealership for repair. The have confirmed problem. Yes there were warning lights moments before needing the brakes and it not working whn pushed.

   NHTSA complaint 11635965
9. Filed Sep 7, 2024Failure Aug 23, 2024Newburgh, INService brakes

   While driving on the highway electronic brake boost suddenly failed, leading to brake malfunction. This is common malfunction of this model. This leads to potentially hazardous situation when in emergency or even regular traffic breaking car would not break as expected.

   NHTSA complaint 11613251
10. Filed Jul 22, 2024Failure Oct 1, 2023Fairhope, ALUnknown or other, Visibility/wiper

    Roughly 6-12 months ago the dashboard on my Lexus started to melt and become sticky, creating a glare on my windshield and impeding my ability to see the road causing dangerous situations. Both daytime and nighttime driving have been affected by this defect. I’ve contacted the local dealership, but they confirmed that no recalls are available and that the only solution is for me to replace the entire dash.

    NHTSA complaint 11603755
11. Filed Apr 4, 2024Failure Mar 8, 2024Birmingham, ALService brakes

    2013 Lexus Es300h driving on [XXX] , I felt the brake didn't work during the street. It's hard to push the brake, and I almost hit the car in front. OMG, I was very scared. I saw an ABS brake light, and I tried to turn into a parking lot and find the nearest Pepboys in Birmingham, Alabama to inspect the system. I was informed of a problem with the Brake Booster Assembly. I’m sorry I can’t afford to pay the labor, service and parts at this time. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 11581147
12. Filed Nov 16, 2023Failure Aug 16, 2023Caguas, PRElectrical system, Service brakes, Vehicle speed control

    I was driving down the highway coming up on a traffic jam put on the brakes and several warning. Lights came on the dash and my power brakes failed. I was barely able to stop the car without hitting someone. From that point forward the brakes did not work properly, the regenerative braking system did not function. also, the cruise control stopped functioning. I took the car to the Lexus dealer, they tested the car and stated it need a new brake booster brake assembly and that there was a safety warranty issue that was extended out 10 years and up to 150,000 miles and although my car only had 79,000 miles on it was three months past the warranty date and the refused. They reset the car brakes apparently and I was able to drive the car for several days while I spoke with Lexus, and then the car brakes failed again.

    NHTSA complaint 11555537
13. Filed Mar 28, 2023Failure Dec 1, 2022Woodbridge, VAElectrical system

    On my 2013 Lexus ES 350, three out of the four doors do not function properly and will not lock or lock with the key fob. my driver’s side front door, my driver’s side rear door, and my passenger’s side front door does not work. The doors also will not lock or unlock with the interior lock/unlock button. When the all the doors are locked, I must go to the passenger’s rear door to unlock the driver’s side front door with my cane. The manual door lock from the key fob does not work and will break if I continue turning it. The door locks will not automatically lock when the car goes in motion. These are safety issues trying to get a child or pet out of the car in case of an emergency such as a fire, an accident, or robbery. The power locks are extremely helpful for me. I am a combat disabled veteran who runs the risk of reinjuring myself using the only door that works attempting to open the door with my cane. I have had some of these power locks replaced before. Lexus says this is a mechanical issue associated with the actuators rather than a safety issue. I really believe this is a serious safety and security issue rather than a mechanical issue.

    NHTSA complaint 11514204
14. Filed Aug 16, 2022Failure Aug 16, 2022Winchester, MAUnknown or other

    Hood latch and cable malfunction in that the hood wouldn't close and warning light and buzzer continuously beeped. Woburn Toyota in Woburn, MA said it was due to overuse and not a defect and not a safety issue! Not so. Hood not opened more than other vehicles I have had without such a problem. Other Lexus owners have posted similar complaints, too.

    NHTSA complaint 11479664
15. Filed Aug 11, 2022Failure Aug 11, 2022Scottsdale, AZAir bags

    I entered the VIN and found that my car airbag was an unrepaired recall.

    NHTSA complaint 11478900
16. Filed May 12, 2022Failure May 11, 2022San Diego, CAUnknown or other

    The moonroof suddenly shattered (it sounded like an explosion) while I was driving on the freeway in 70 degree weather. Initially I had no idea what it was but realized subsequently that I was shedding glass shards behind me. There were no overpasses where someone could have dropped something, I did not see a rock or other projectile, and - when I parked the car - I found nothing that from outside seemed to have struck it and/or stayed behind in the cavity.

    NHTSA complaint 11464373
17. Filed Aug 18, 2021Failure Aug 4, 2021Little Rock, ARElectrical system

    The automatic door locks have stopped working. I have had to replace 3 out of the 4 door lock actuators in the car. When they go out I am unable to use the door lock sensors and have to manually lock my doors. It also affects my ability to use the key fob remote to lock and unlock my door. I replaced 2 in 2018 and 1 in 2021

    NHTSA complaint 11429552
18. Filed Jan 19, 2021Failure Jan 15, 202132,000 milesKirkwood, MOFuel/propulsion system

    ENGINE STALLS WHEN TURNING LEFT REDUCING POWER STEERING BOOST UNTIL DRIVER LIFTS FOOT FROM GAS PEDAL AND REPUSHES TO REGAIN POWER STEERING BOOST ON CITY STREETS AT LOW SPEED FROM STOPPED POSITION.

    NHTSA complaint 11388921
19. Filed Oct 1, 2020Failure Oct 1, 202034,200 milesWestminster, COService brakes, Unknown or other

    THE PCS (PRE COLLISION SYSTEM) WARNING ICON FLASHED IN THE DISPLAY INDICATING THAT THE PCS WAS TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN ON A HIGHWAY. PULLED OVER TO LOOK IN THE OWNERS MANUAL ONLY TO FIND THAT THE MANUAL TOLD ME TO STOP. WE PROCEEDED TO RETURN HOME WITHOUT EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE HANDLING. I REALLY DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE CAR NOT KNOWING IF THE PCS SYSTEM WILL FAIL.

    NHTSA complaint 11362293
20. Filed Feb 6, 2020Failure Sep 1, 2019NEW York, NYService brakes

    MY 2013 LEXUS ES 300H HAS GOT A WEAK BRAKES, SOMETIMES WOULD MAKE SQUEAKING NOISE WHEN YOU HOLD THEM AND FEW TIMES WOULDN'T BRAKE WHEN BRAKING ON A BIT ROUGH ROAD. I WAS AFRAID FOR MY SAFETY AND WENT TO LEXUS DEALER TO PERFORM DIAGNOSTIC. THEY SAID THAT MY CAR NEEDS A BRAKE ACTUATOR TO BE REPLACED WHICH IS VERY EXPENSIVE PROCEDURE. HOWEVER, PEOPLE IN A DEALERSHIP ADMITTED THAT IT'S A COMMON PROBLEM FOR THESE CARS AND MY RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET CONFIRMED IT AS WELL. ALSO, LEXUS ISSUED EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR AN ABS FAILURE BUT SOMEHOW YOU ARE QUALIFIED ONLY WHEN YOUR ABS FAIL. THAT'S SOUNDS VERY DANGEROUS AND UNSAFE. I DID MORE RESEARCH AND FOUND THAT IN 2016 IN AUSTRALIA LEXUS HAS RECALLED 2013 AND ABOVE LEXUS ES MODELS BECAUSE OF BRAKE ACTUATOR AND ABS MODULE MALFUNCTION. I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY ARE THE SAME MODELS NOT BEING RECALLED IN USA FOR THE SAME VERY COMMON PROBLEM.

    NHTSA complaint 11307461