What are the most common Lexus ES problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 4,000+ owner reports, the 2019-2019 Lexus ES has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Hybrid Battery Pack Degradation, Brake Actuator Buzzing and Grinding Noise. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Lexus ES reliable?

The 2019-2019 Lexus ES has 2 known issues documented across 4,000+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Hybrid Battery Pack Degradation. 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.

How much does it cost to fix common Lexus ES problems?

Repair costs for known Lexus ES issues range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Hybrid Battery Pack Degradation, typically costs $1,500-$5,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

2019 Lexus ES Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2019 model year · 4,000+ owner reports · Updated April 2026

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According to Au7o's analysis of 4,000+ owner reports, the 2019 Lexus ES has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Hybrid Battery Pack Degradation ($1,500-$5,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Brake Actuator Buzzing and Grinding Noise with 2,800 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $1,500 to $5,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 2 Known Issues

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Community Reported

1,200 owners

On the 2013-2019 Lexus ES 2.5L 2AR-FXE Hybrid, the ES300h hybrid battery pack experiences capacity degradation over time, particularly in hot climates where thermal cycling accelerates cell deterioration. Owners report reduced fuel economy, inability to maintain EV mode, and eventually a hybrid system warning light. The NiMH battery pack typically begins showing degradation between 8-12 years of age.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Bolt EV, Ford C-Max, Ford Fusion

Common Symptoms

Decreased fuel economy by 5-10 MPG
Hybrid system warning light on dashboard
Unable to enter or maintain EV mode
Reduced acceleration performance
Battery charge gauge drops rapidly

How to Fix

Replace the hybrid battery pack with a new or refurbished unit. Lexus dealers charge $3,000-$5,000 for a new pack. Aftermarket refurbished packs from companies like Green Bean Battery or Dorman cost $1,500-$2,500 installed. Individual cell replacement is also possible for partial degradation.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 1,200+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeGreen Bean Battery refurbished hybrid battery pack with lifetime warranty — significantly cheaper than dealer replacement and includes professional installation. (Green Bean Battery #GBB-ES300H)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $5,000

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1,200+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence1,200 reportsLast reported by owners Jan 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

Community Reported

2,800 owners

On the 2019-2025 Lexus ES, the electronic brake actuator on the 2019+ ES produces a noticeable buzzing or grinding noise during low-speed braking and when the brake hold function is engaged. The noise comes from the ABS actuator cycling at low speeds and is a design characteristic of the brake-by-wire system. While not a safety concern, the noise is prominent enough to be heard in the cabin.

This issue also affects: Lexus IS, Lexus GS, Lexus RC

Common Symptoms

Buzzing or grinding noise when braking at low speed
Vibration felt through brake pedal during light braking
Noise when brake hold function activates
Groaning sound from engine bay area when releasing brakes

How to Fix

Lexus released a software update (TSB) to modify the brake actuator operation and reduce noise. Visit the dealer for the ECU reflash. Some noise may persist at very low speeds as this is inherent to the brake-by-wire design. Adding sound deadening material around the actuator can further reduce cabin intrusion.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 2,800+ owners who fixed this issue

TipThe TSB software update significantly reduces the noise but may not eliminate it completely. This is a known characteristic of Toyota/Lexus brake-by-wire systems across their TNGA platform.

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2,800+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence2,800 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

2019 Lexus ES Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 2 Known Issues

2013-2019 Lexus ES: Hybrid Battery Pack Degradation#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2019-2025 Lexus ES: Brake Actuator Buzzing and Grinding Noise#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Lexus Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Lexus ES problems?

Is the Lexus ES reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Lexus ES problems?

What is the 2013-2019 Lexus ES Hybrid Battery Pack Degradation?

What is the 2019-2025 Lexus ES Brake Actuator Buzzing and Grinding Noise?