Lexus ES 300h XZ10

The 12V auxiliary battery in the ES 300h is not charged by the hybrid system when the car is switched off. If the vehicle sits unused for more than 5-10 days, the 12V battery can drain completely, leaving the car unable to start. Original batteries typically last 3-4 years before requiring replacement. This is a well-known characteristic of Toyota and Lexus hybrids rather than a defect. Replacement cost is approximately €150-300 depending on battery type and labor. A quality trickle charger (such as CTEK MXS 5.0) is recommended for cars that are not driven daily.

The engine coolant bypass valve on the A25A-FXS is a known weak point across Toyota and Lexus hybrids using this engine. Failure triggers diagnostic code P2681 and can result in no cabin heating, check engine light illumination, and suboptimal engine temperature management. The valve typically fails between 60,000 and 100,000 km. Toyota has issued TSB T-SB-0112-24 and released an updated replacement part (16260-F0310). Some vehicles may qualify for free replacement under Customer Support Program 24TE04. At an independent specialist, expect to pay €200-350 for parts and labor; Lexus dealers charge up to €500.

The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) cooler on pre-2022 A25A-FXS engines can develop internal cracks from repeated thermal cycling. When this occurs, coolant leaks into the exhaust stream, causing white smoke from the tailpipe and a gradual drop in coolant level. The check engine light may also illuminate. This issue primarily affects 2018-2021 models and typically presents after 80,000-120,000 km. Repair involves replacing the EGR cooler assembly at a cost of €800-1,500 including parts and labor. Toyota revised the cooler design for 2022 and later production.

The ES 300h's infotainment system, controlled via a touchpad on earlier models (2018-2021), is a common source of owner complaints. Symptoms include screen freezing, unexpected reboots, Apple CarPlay connectivity dropping, and the touchpad becoming unresponsive. Most issues can be resolved with software updates at a Lexus dealer. The 2022 facelift replaced the touchpad with a touchscreen, largely resolving these complaints. For pre-facelift models, software updates are free under warranty; out of warranty, dealer diagnostic and update fees range from €100-400.

Lexus issued Technical Service Bulletin L-SB-0008-22 for 2019-2022 ES 300h models that may develop a squeal or squeaking noise from the front brakes. The noise is caused by vibration between the brake pad and caliper hardware. The fix involves installing an updated anti-squeal shim and hardware fitting kit. If addressed under warranty, the repair is free; otherwise, parts and labor typically cost €100-300. The issue is cosmetic rather than safety-related and does not affect braking performance.

Toyota and Lexus hybrid batteries are among the most durable in the industry, typically lasting 10-15 years or 200,000-300,000 km. However, on older examples approaching the 8-year mark, some capacity loss can occur, reducing electric-mode range and slightly increasing fuel consumption. Complete battery failure requiring replacement is rare, occurring in fewer than 5% of vehicles within the typical ownership period. A new hybrid battery pack from Lexus costs approximately €2,500-4,000 including installation. Lexus provides an 8-year / 160,000 km warranty on the hybrid battery, and some examples may still be covered.