1997 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated August 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1997 Lexus ES300 has 1 documented issue, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is 1MZ-FE V6 Engine Oil Sludge Failure. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF ALASKA, COLORADO, IDAHO, ILLINOIS, IOWA, KANSAS, MAINE, MICHIGAN,MINNESOTA, MONTANA, NEBRASKA, NEVADA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW YORK, NOTH DAKOTA, SOUTH DAKOTA, VERMONT, WISCONSIN, AND WYOMING. A CONDITION CAN OCCUR WHERE ACCUMULATED MOISTURE CAN TEMPORARILY FREEZE IN THE BRAKE VACUUM HOSE IF THE VEHICLE IS USED IN EXTREMELY COLD CLIMATES FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME.
STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE STEERING WHEEL SET NUT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN SUFFICIENTLY TIGHTENED CAUSING STEERING VIBRATION AND LOOSENESS.
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According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1997 Lexus ES300 has 1 documented issue. The documented issue is: 1MZ-FE V6 Engine Oil Sludge Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
The 1997 Lexus ES300 has 1 known issue compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: 1MZ-FE V6 Engine Oil Sludge Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
Lexus manufacturer communications filed with NHTSA document a special policy/customer-satisfaction program for oil gelling or sludge on certain 1997-2002 ES300 vehicles with the 1MZ-FE six-cylinder engine. The page's 1997-1999 model years fall within that documented population. T… Severity: high.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
