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Trina of York PA (07/10/08)
I have been having alot of problems with oil and fumes from my exhaust. I have a 1997 Lexus Rx300 which I purchased used about 3 years ago. I've been taking my car to the Toyota Dealer for this problem and on the last visit to the Toyota dealer I was informed I have sludge buildup and need to have head gasket cover replaced. Since I've already spent several hundreds of dollars on oil problems I decided to see another repair shop and get another opinion. At this shop the technician informed me that there has been a sludge problem with the make and model of my car which I verified today online. Seeing as though this is a problem which has numerous compliants I would like to know what is my next step in handling my problem and getting in on this class action lawsuit. I have never received anything in the mail about my vehicle. Please contact me to discuss my opinion. Thanks you for your time Trina Ramos
Linda of Sarasota FL (07/07/08)
I also have had a problem with the LExus dealer and the smoke and oil sludge. I have recently had my dealer confirm they will put a new engine in the vehicle after other service that probably should not have been performed since this class action suit has been pushed away and not discussed. Even when I mentioned briefly this past two weeks about issue with the engine they brushed it aside and was not forthright in discussing the problem. However, the problem I encounter is they tell me it will take four weeks to put in a new engine. The problem I have is why is the labor going to be 35 hours. How am I cgoing to confirm that they did not put in a rebuilt engine, or just change out the valves and gaskets and perform regular vlaue job for half the price. I only question this now since they are only going to warranty the car for one year. In one year the 8 years will be here and they do not i will not have recourse. It does not take 35 hours to pull and engine and drop another one in , even with the labor of connections. It would cost a dealer $3000 or $4000 to do a upper end valve job and vs. replacing a $7000+ new engine. I have sludge in the oil, smoke and have put in a main seal because of the oil leak. Yet, Lexus never informed me of the class action suit. The problem has gotten worse and the car is now in Lexus. After continued problems and shocked response on why I should have these problems from my local dealers when I have oil changes and service I started looking on the computer. Not once has lexus notified me about the problems. This past two weeks not once did their service coordinators mention problems and just started to repair problem. Even after I mentioned engine problems I found on computer they did not mention. later last Monday I did finally get a call from coordinator informing me that Lexus will put a new engine in the car. However, what about all the old bills. The other problem is that it will take four weeks to get a new engine, 35 hours to put an engine in the car, and only then give me a year warranty. Just enought to get past the class action claim in my opinion. How can I prove a new engine went in and they just didin't do an upper valve and gasket job to correct the problem. He said it would take 35 hours for labor alone. If you drop an engine and drop a new one in how can that take 35 hours. You can drop an engine and put a new transmission in for one day and maybe two. Then why only a year warranty if the engine is brand new. It is a lot cheaper for a dealer to perform a value and gasket job on an engine for $4000 vs. a new engine for $7000+. I use to trust the dealer and the Srvice and LExus. People usually never have a bad word for Toyota and LExuws. Put this experience hads put a bad feeling about honesty and trust in my vocabulary since all this has surfaced. All the article said I should have been notified about the suit. I was not. Why did I know more about this then the dealer wanted me know even after I briefly exchanged my views of engine problems. I wrote to General Manager and Lexus Corporate today for their views and my complaint. I would like to know where to file my complaint since I have not read any where on line to do so. Even when I mentioned Lexus dealers c You never mentioned in your article how to get in touch and file a claim with the class action suit. I was never notified as you mentioed that my car was part of this suit. I have a 2000 Lexus 300 ES.
Mimi of Los Altos CA (07/01/08)
I was getting on Hwy 101 ramp #386B near San Jose International Airport on a Saturday morning around 10:45 am when traffic was moderate. Suddenly I felt my 2007 Lexus ES350 began accelerating by itself. At first I thought maybe I stepped on the gas pedal too much so I eased up on the accelerator. However, my car didn't slow down and instead it kept accelerating uncontrollably on its own. I was getting very close to the car in front, my 3 other passengers yelled for me to slow down. I stepped as hard as I could on the brake but the car didn't slow down at all. I realized the cruise control light was on and thought maybe I have accidentally turned it on to cause such acceleration. My husband who sat next to me helped me turn the cruise off while I tried to maintain control of my car to avoid hitting any vehicle in front. Meanwhile, I tried to pump the brake and stepped as hard as I could on the brake. The car wouldnt slow down and instead accelerated to 105 mph. All I could do was keep changing lanes to avoid hitting vehicles in front while having my emergency signal and continuous hitting my honks. I somehow managed to move over to the shoulder without hitting any cars but the vehicle was still moving at 100+ mph. Finally my husband had to force the gear box to park and I applied the emergency parking brake before the vehicle finally started to slow down and eventually stopped near exit #389. My car has traveled for about 3.5 miles at over 100 mph and there were some very close calls where I could have hit vehicles at high speed seriously injuring someone and myself. After the incident, the vehicle was towed to a nearby Lexus dealership. Two days later on Monday, I was informed by the dealer that the sudden acceleration was caused by improper installation of the all weather floor mat. When I questioned why the brake did not work at all, their answer was basically when the gas throttle was open, the horsepower of the car was so great that the brake wasn't able to stop it. It is like stepping one foot on the gas and the other on the brake pedal. My husband and I were not convinced by the explanation that improper installation of mat (even if it is) could have cause such completely uncontrollable acceleration that could have disastrous consequence. We demand to have Lexus Corporation send a field technician or have an independent and qualified technician to do a full and complete diagnosis. Our request was promptly refused by the dealership service department manager. They said when they did a computer diagnosis, no error code was shown on their tool and therefore we have to trust them that the sudden and uncontrollable acceleration problem has been resolved by the replacement of the floor mat. We refused to pick up the car out of safety concern. Meanwhile we are researching consumer rights suggested by various consumer advocate groups before we decide how to proceed with this incident. Our research found this problem has happened in a lot of different models of vehicles under both Toyota and Lexus brand. For example NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation database contains 40 reports of similar sudden and uncontrollable acceleration in 2007 Lexus ES350 model alone, resulting in many injuries.
Joe of Tucson AZ (06/30/08)
In December of 2006, I purchased a 2003 LS 430 with 8,700 miles. I would say in that period of time, there have been about ten times when starting from a light the engine will rev sparaticly and the tranny won't shift. I have tp pull to the side of the street, put the car in park and restart the engine. Then the car performs as normal. I checked with the local Tucson dealership about factory service bulletin and was told there was nothing listed. I'm stumped.
Lawrence of Chula Vista CA (06/18/08)
Transmission failed at 73K on our RX300 for 400K repair. This should not occur when all maintenance was done by dealer at prescribed scheduled intervals. This car cost 45K when new, and there are hundreds of similar complaints on Lexus forums.
Betty of Sun City Center FL (06/11/08)
I was driving the car 2 days after I had the oil changed, when the car started making a rought tinning sound I pulled the car over and was told by a machanic that the bearing were bad because of low oil preasure. He said that this often happens whith es300s
Carol of Roxboro NC (06/10/08)
I recently purchased a Lexus along with a service agreement for an added charge. I financed the car but paid for the service agreement by check. Two weeks after I bought the car with the agreement I decided to cancel the service agreement. I was informed by letter that I would not be getting back my money. Instead the money that I paid for the service agreement, by check, $1895.00, minus a 25 dollar processing fee would be applied to the amount on my loan at Lexus Finanical. I have tried every way I could to explain that I did not finance the service agreement. But as it was stated to me, there is no way that I would be refunded my money. Furthermore there is nothing written on my orginal reciept for the purchase of the car and service agreement that states I would not be refunded if I chose to cancel the policy.
Carol of Sutton MA (05/27/08)
Runaway acceleration of my Lexus 350. My husband was driving onto Rte 4 NJ Teaneck. (No breakdown, or emergency lane)Cruise control seemingly took control of engine. Braked hard, engine continued with RPM's accelerated, smoking brakes. Tried unsuccessfully to shift to manual, neutral. Car was still moving when he pressed off button. Car stopped with a jolt. We checked that mats were in place.Since we were in an unsafe space he started car again to pull onto exit. Repeat of acceleration and loud noise, strong smell of burning brakes. Stopped only by pressing button. We ended our stop this time blocking entrance to highway. Police came. Officer and tow truck driver confirmed that engine mad terrifying accelerating noise. Police yelled, Stay away from that car, it could explode. Heard briefly from service department this morning nothing apparently wrong. Still checking and that we would be responsible for getting car back to Boston. I am terrified to ever drive this car again.
Jennifer of Monroeville PA (05/16/08)
I own a Lexus 2001 RX300 and kept up with regular oil changes and maintenance. At 81,000 my transmission went. I couldn't beleive that a Lexus vehicle had such a major problem so early on. The VSC and check engine ICON light were on and I thought maybe it was a sensor that shut down the vehicle to protect it from further damage. I had this sensor repaired last June. I went to the dealership and they said it was the transmission. They agreed to fix the tranny, but I had to pay $1500 for labor, which was better than $4000 totaland even though I was outraged, I had no chocie but to fix the vehicle. I got the vehicle back and the VSC along with check engine ICON light were STILL on along with some muffed reving sound. I was told I had to have 2 full starts (complete cool down and run engine warm) before the sensor lights would go off. I did that and no resolved. I took the auto back and no they said it was some exhaust problem.....which didn't they remove the exhaust to get to the tranny to fix? Yes, but somehow it still was going to cost me $400. Got the auto back and the VSC and check engine ICON are STILL ON and now they say it some other sensor....hand over $500. Of course, I need a vehicle so I told them to fix it. Their mechanic had it out on a test run and it was rear-ended by another vehicle and now the tranny is leaking. Conveniently, the mechanic did NOT get the name of the guy that rear-end my auto because it's in a police report. THe guy that hit me vehicle should pay for my auto damage and if he doesn't have insurance, the dealer should pay and lend me a loaner car. The dealership is not being cooperative....don't they have business insurance for these type of things? My insurance company is saying the transmission leak is NOT from the accident and the dealership is saying that it is?
Cynthia of Beverly Hills CA (04/28/08)
I have had a 2007 IS 250 for 14 months. It has not started 3 times. The first time I was told that it was because I left something on. The second time I was told that it was because I hadn't driven my car far enough so that the battery was not getting a complete charge. In the last 39 days, I drove my car 1037 miles and last week when I got in my car it did not start. I called Lexus Corporate back and told them about this. Still I have not heard from them and it has been 1 week. Also, I visited the dealer where I leased the car and the only way that they could guarantee that I would not have this problem anymore is if I bought something called a battery tender. It is something that is built into the car and has to plug into a wall as well. I live in an apartment and my build will not allow me to do this as they would then have to pay for my electricity. I don't have any outlet near my space anyway. Therefore, as of this moment, my problem is still unsolved.
A. of Adkins TX (04/09/08)
I did own a1996 Lexus GS300 a few days ago.My daughter in law borrowed it to go and pick up my 3 year old grand daughter, returned home 20 minutes later came in to the house with her daughter for 5 minutes went back outside and noticed smoke coming from under the hood, she grabed a water hose and yelled for me I took the hose and started to hear poping coming from under the she called thr fire dept. and we both got away from it and watched it totaly burnup.
Lisa of Richmond VA (02/18/08)
IN late June, I purchased a 2000 Lexus RX300 with 80000 miles for my daughter, expecting it to last for years. I had my mechanic service and check everything over in June and again in July when the check engine light came on. Recently my daughter experienced the car hesitating, then lurching. I took it to a toyota dealer and am told it needs a new transmission for $5600!!! A quick internet search reveals that i am not alone in having a transmission problem on that vehicle. Of course i do not have any service records of the previous owner, nor do i have any current warranty. It seems that Lexus should take at least partial responsibility
Dawn of Sacramento CA (11/01/07)
After the transmission in my 2000 Lexus rx300 malfunctioned, I contact Lexus corporation and request them to pay for a new transmission. I have regularly maintenanced my vehicle and there should have been no reason for the transmission to fail. After some research via the internet I found out that this very common with 1999 & 2000 RX300's and yet no recall... why? Jennifer left me a message indicating they would pay 25%. I left a message indicating the transmission should be recalled (it's defective) and therefore they should pay 100% of the replacement. However, I would be willing to settle for 50% to resolve the matter. Now I'm being asked for receipts. The owners manual does not indicate having to replace the fluid only to check. However, my mechanic did replace the fluid at 60,000 mile check.
James of Portland OR (10/31/07)
i have a 2000 lexus rx 300.engine is full of sludge, it smokes,burns a lot of oil,has engine noise. lexus dealer refuses to cover it. this car was included in oil sludge settlement.they told me it would cost me $3000 to fix it
Diane of Richmond VA (09/12/07)
I accessed your website on Sept. 9, for information related to the engine oil sludge problems experienced by some Lexus RX 300 vehicle owners. I had received a letter re the class action lawsuit several years ago and filed it away for future reference. When I read the letters from dissatisfied Lexus/Toyota owners who described the terrible treatment and service from their particular dealers and service departments, I decided to tell you about a positive experience. My father, who lived in South Carolina, died on Sept. 2.
I left Richmond that morning to be with my family and was nearing Roanoke Rapids in North Carolina when my engine began to make a loud banging noise and the car began to lose power. At that point the oil light illuminated on the dash and I pulled to the side of I-95, shaken. Two hours later a tow-truck arrived and towed the car to Roanoke Rapids. At my request, he checked the oil and said there was none in the car. I asked if he would put oil in and test the engine because I was anxious to reach S.C.
The added oil made no difference and my car was then towed to Rocky Mount, N.C. and left at the Toyota dealership there. Of course, this took place on a holiday weekend and I was unable to rent a car or find a garage open to look at the vehicle. My husband drove from Richmond to pick me up and then drive the remaining distance to S.C. This was not the best time to deal with automobile difficulties, but Larry, the service manager in Rocky Mount, was very patient with me. He let me know that the engine would have to be replaced. I told him that the tow driver said there was no oil in the car and to please check for leaks, etc. The inspection revealed that the car was a quart low.
I thought, How could the tow driver have made such a mistake?, totally forgetting that we had added oil to the car. We had the car towed to Richmond Lexus where Dale Farley, Service Manager, had the engine looked at by his mechanics and agreed that the engine needed to be replaced. I had called ahead to let him know that the car was a quart low and I couldn't understand what had happened. Mr. Farley looked at the service record of the car, and in support of me, talked to the powers that be to have the engine replacement approved at no cost.
They agreed. I was so relieved to have this settled and was able to focus on my family. The following Saturday, my husband drove home to Richmond and stopped in Rocky Mount to pay the tow driver for the Richmond trip. I told him how happy I was that Lexus of Richmond had agreed to replace the engine at no cost. He then reminded me that we had put oil in the car, and my heart nearly stopped. I'd forgotten about it in the confusion of the funeral services for my father. The following Monday I went to Lexus to pick up a loaner car while mine was being repaired and I told Mr. Farley about the oil, dreading that he would think I had deliberately deceived him.
He was very kind and said that they would replace the engine at no cost, anyway. I was very embarressed and very impressed with him and the Lexus dealership. Please let your readers know that there are honest and kind automobile dealers who want to do the right thing and who go the extra mile to provide exceptional customer service. Needless to say, I am now a life-long Lexus of Richmond customer.
Glenda Broderick of Melbourne FL (08/23/07)
I* was hit from behind by a Dodge Ram truck and my seat snapped and broke. I was thrown into the steering wheel. My 1999 Lexus RX300 held up well in the rear but was injured due to the seat breaking and no air bag deployed. The Ram truck hit me at a pretty high rate of speed as he was fleeing the scene of another accident.
I have 2 bulging disks and 2 herniated disks in my neck and upper back. Going thru medical treatments.
Reginald of Hoover AL (08/22/07)
Purchased a 2003 Lexus ES300 with 37,000 miles. The vehicle was purchased because it was covered by a 72 month, 70,000 mile warranty. Three months after purchasing the vehicle it was discovered that vehicle had oil sludge and the engine requires replacement. Lexus refused to repair because the oil sludge lawsuit only covered 1997-2002 models. I have all the receipts for maintenance that I did during the short time I've had the car, but I don't have the maintenance records of the previous owners. Now I am stuck with a 2003 Lexus with 43,000 miles that needs a new engine
Trisa of San Ramon CA (06/26/07)
I purchased a new 2001 Lexus RX300 back in July 2001. I have 69500 miles on it now. Recently I had issues with it getting stuck in reverse - it would not reverse until I stepped hard on the gas and then it would bang into gear and reverse. THis Lexus service dept said it was the TPS (Throttle Position Sensor). I am worried that there is something wrong with the transmission. I will be outside of the warranty (6 years or 70K miles) in a matter of weeks.
Jerry of Derby KS (06/21/07)
I took my 2002 Lexus RX300 into Scholfield Lexus yesterday (6/19/07) because it began putting out smoke when we started it in the morning. Later in the day I talked with the Service Manager (Jeff Kastning) and he indicated the problem was due to engine sludge and I would need a new engine block. He stated this was going to cost me $10-11K.
I told him that was unacceptable and why wasn't this type of thing under warranty. He indicated it was due to me not changing my oil and I told him that was not true, as a matter of fact I had just changed the oil, filter and air filter just prior to the Memorial weekend. He stated I needed to show proof that the oil at been changed in the last year. I said I did this and have done this myself and I didn't have receipts. He said there wasn't anything he could do. I called Lexus customer support and listed a complaint. What are people who change oil themselves suppose to do.
The Lexus dealership is basically saying I didn't change the oil. I've changed the oil in my car more that a dozen times since I purchased it in 2003 (I try to do it at least quarterly) and since I do it myself I didn't have records. Knowing I bought the oil and filters prior to Memorial, I found when I did it (May 23rd) and went to Walmart and got the receipt and faxed it to the dealership. He would not say if that was adequate or not. We cannot be required to take our cars to a shop to have the oil changed and it appears we don't have any recourse.
The dealership said they were waiting on word from Lexus before they would repair the car under warranty. In my attachment I'm including information found on the internet regarding these types of problems with Toyota/Lexus vehicles and it seems to me that Lexus should stand behind it's warranty and repair my car. I respectfully request someone deal with this issue. I've never had any problems with this vehicle until this past week (never used oil, ran sluggishly or anything and I like to think it's because I have regualarly changed the oil but the dealership seems to think otherwise. I called Lexus Customer Service again today (6/21), since I had not heard from anyone.
They said someone would call be today. At 5:30pm Mr Kastning calls back and said Lexus called him and said they would not accept the receipt I provided and I needed to show receipts for the last 4 yrs. I again explained to Mr Kastning that I changed oil myself every quarter and never thought of keeping receipts and basically what they (Lexus) are saying is that I'm a liar. I told him they could not require a car owner to go to a service store to have their cars serviced and therefore have receipts. Mr Kastning tells us we need one receipt in the last year and then Lexus is saying receipts for 4 yrs. Please assist in this matter. I would like to think Lexus will stand up to it's advertised claims of being concerned about customer satisfaction and standing behind their warranties.
They are saying it will cost me $10,000-11,000 to install a new engine block. We still owe 13 payments on this car.
Francis of Flushing NY (05/30/07)
I purchased a 1993 Lexus ES 300 in 2002, currently has 96,800 miles. All these complaints I have notice are similar to other people having the same car. I have no complaint to any dealer. But to Lexus only! 1. Mechanic stated I have an oil sludge problem. I need o wait at least 5 minutes when starting the car before I drive off or I feel the car slacking. Car been burning allot of oil finding myself every month adding about almost quart of oil.
Regardless of this I get an oil change every 3 months 2. The needle light on the gas gauge blew out for the second time in 2 years, also the light needle for the car temperature is always flickering on and off, 3. The driver side headlights always has condensation in it ever since I purchase the car. 4. Have an issue with the expansion valve for the A/C. 5. The factory car radio no longer working. First the LCD display would flicker on and off but still heard music the went on for about 2 weeks, then it just completely stop working checked the fuses every time I replaced the fuse it would blow out, so I purchased a new radio the moment they finish installing the radio turned the car on the new radio blew off and the fuse also.
The money I spend on fixing these issues 1. the cost of changing the oil everything 3 months is a normal maintains cost . but the $3 per month I need to pay to add new oil. Replacing/ fixing est about $3000-4500 2. I replace the bulb once cost was $6. 3. I have not invested on fixing the light condensation problem. 4. I have not invested on fixing this issue cost is about $150-250 5. radio replacement was $99.00 which blew. fuses were about $12.
Doron Sherman Oaks CA (04/11/07)
We leased a new Lexus and turned in a Mercedes. We were told by sales person there would be no turn in fees and we asked him more than once, he assured us there would not be any. Five months later I received a bill from Mercedes for $960.68. I contacted the manager Ryan Gallente immediately but he wanted nothing to do with it and basically gave us the brush off. I have since written to him with no response. I feel this is unethical business practice and that I was basically lied to in order for a sale. I would appreciate your help in this matter. I would like to get refunded for the amount. I had to pay it or it would go on my credit record. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience. Doron Gal
Jose of San Sebastian (03/17/07)
The car the I have is a Lexus ES 300, and it has arounfd 55000 miles, and it has been burning oil a lot, and by surching the internet a figured that there was a sludge problem going on with the Toyota/Lexus cars, the expecific model that I have from 1997/2002, was also included on the list of the Louisiana settlement,and that in 2002 Toyota admitted receiving 3,400 complaints about sludged engines and the automaker extended its vehicle warranty to eight years along with unlimited mileage to owners of 1997-2002 Toyota and Lexus vehicles equipped with 3.0-liter V-6 or 2.2-liter four-cylinder engines, since my car is having the same aperant problem, i decided to oppen this complain.
Medina of New York NY (03/14/07)
Today I discovered that I had a flat tire on my vehicle (Lexus GS 300) when I attempted to locate my spare, I found that I did not have a spare tire.
I have never used the spare, nor had I ever looked for the spare before because I never had a need to. The spare was supposed to be in a sealed compartment in the car which I never looked in.
I called the dealer where I purchased the vehicle in November 2005. They told me when I arrived that they would replace the spare however when I went to leave with the car they demanded payment of $320.
When I demanded the spare tire they said that the car may have not come with a spare which I believe is totally incorrect because it was a new vehicle.
The car has never been broken into nor serviced by anyone other than this one dealer where I purchased the vehicle. there response was simply that there may have not been a spare in the car when they sold it and that the salesman who sold me the car was no longer employed there so they could do nothing to help me. finally they demanded payment or to call the police on me so I paid them for the tire but was still left with no spare tire.
Bahram of Great Falls VA (03/09/07)
Well we own a 2000 Lexus LX470. The reason I bought the car for close to 70K in 2000 was the reputation of Lexus for the quality of their cars and also service. We have been let down by both those aspects of the car.
The suspension system of the car has cost us more than 8K so far to service and I wonder if this is an overall defect in LX470 due to the fact the suspension is capable of height adjustment. Anyway I have complained and talked and written to Lexus head quarters with NO luck. The other major problem with Lexus is the dealerships that sell and service those cars!!! I have been dealing with Pohankas Lexus in Chantilly Virginia (DC Metropolitan) for the past couple of years and it seems like they are getting worse by day.
My wife took her Lexus in last week for a checkup and service. She was charged $212 for changing the oil and supposedly complete checkup. Also the front light had gone bad and when she inquired on how much it will be to fix it, she was told $85 to change the front head light, which she refused. So I go into an auto part store, purchase a less than $5 front headlight and without the right tools, it takes me 15 minutes to change the light. While I am there I notice there is no windshield fluid in it container so I top it off with about half gallon I had in my garage and its not even close to being full!!!
Then I notice the back tire is low on air, so I asked my wife on whether the service included those items and she said she did not know!!! So I checked the receipt from Pohankas Lexus and in it $185 labor charge to change the oil & filter, check and top off fluids and rotate/balance the tires!!!! So I went buzurk. Next day I call Pokankus's service Dept, ask for the top boss and get transferred to a Doug guy who is service director.
Leave him a brief message with my unhappiness and ask him to call me back (this is Tuesday). Yesterday Thursday, a guy Lindsey calls my wife and my wife gets his number and I call him right away. He picks up the phone, and keeps me hanging for more than 10 minutes that he is working on something else that he needs to finish.
So after patiently waiting for him to talk to me, he says OK so how can I help you. So I give him the name/phone number and explain teh situation to him. There is no comment/opology this has happened!!!! I ask him about the $85 to change the front light and he very coldly says well this is our raate sir. So if they did not do it right bring your car back in tomorrow.
Can I get an appointment so that my wife with 4 kids does not have to spend hours there??? he says no sorry we don't do appointments. No sorries, no oppologies nothing and just hangs up on me!!!. Well I am going to object the charge on my credit card and will not pay a dime to them. But buyer be aware, we have had HORRIBLE experience with the car Lexus LX470 and the services from dealerships are outrageously expensive and at times horribe. I am going to take this case to a local news station to make sure others do not get suckered into these types of problems.
Cynthia of Grand Prairie TX (03/08/07)
Due to the recent Lexus oil gel problems I experienced, I contacted the oil gel specialist, Mr. Lee, to file a claim. My claim was denied due to the 8 year expiration date. My car was 8 years and 9 mos. when I begin to experience sludging.
I am sure there are others who have experienced the same. The very rude oil gel specialist refused to deal with me...told me I could appeal the decision. If these cars are predisposed to oil gel problems, why isn't Lexus more willing to assist?
Lagenia of Gainesville FL (02/28/07)
1998 Lexus ES 300 with 80 K miles. Serviced by Lexus at 60K changed all seals gaskets etc. Now at leak has been detected and inspection says the engine has sludged. All oil changes done on time and car has been seen by Toyota and Lexus several time for prior work and inspection. Lexus says it's owners fault. As owners we were never informed of the sludge problem by Lexus or Toyota. Cost to repair the engine is UNACCEPTABLE!!! HELP...
Theresa of New York NY (02/25/07)
I had a fire in my apartment and the remote key for my Lexus ES330 was destroyed. I'm living in Long Beach until the construction is finished. I went to the nearest Lexus dealer to order a duplicate key. I was appalled that the cost will be over $300.00 for a duplicate key. The personnel at the dealership was very cooperative but I still feel the cost is prohibitive.
Bill of Coppell TX (02/23/07)
I have a 2001 Lexus LS 430 and my wife has been hit in the head many times, as I have, by the trunk lid coming down due to moderate winds and just putting groceries in the trunk.
Two dealer service managers have told me that the shocks that are supposed to hold up the trunk are under engineered, and not substantial enough to hold up the trunk lid. This condition gets worse over time. I have contacted their 800 # and was told/e-mailed a we can't/won't help you response. I recently found out that Lexus changed the part number on my trunk struts (from # ending in 30 to 31) sometime after 2001.
Lexus keeps the reasons for these changes a secret even from their dealers, so I could not find out why for the change. I am asking that Lexus Corporate Customer Satisfaction allow my local dealer to put on a set of the new part # (ending in 31) trunk struts at no charge to me. I'm sure the new part number represents a quiet Lexus part fix.
The trunk lid is heavy, and when it hits you in the head or face (if you're looking up at the time), it can do some damage. This happens all too easily, especially if the car is parked on a slight uphill incline.
But, even on level ground it doesn't take much shaking of the car or wind to have it come down. In fact, if you don't push hard to make sure it is all the way up (like we always do - along with now having to hold it up), it doesn't even stay up at all. The approximate (I think) cost to replace the trunk struts would be about $500, but I didn't want to spend that amount, if the replacement struts were the same under-engineered struts that would have the same problem two or so years down the road.
Barry of Baltimore MD (02/06/07)
Own a 95 ES 300 and when vehicle reached 100k it developed a white smoke from tailpipe; diagnose with sludge; not under warranty; replaced with used engine. Obviously this is a problem with lexus engines.
Cost $4000 to replace.
Art of Valley Center CA (01/24/07)
Purchase 1993 Lexus Es300 4 years ago. It had about 50,000 miles on it at the time. The instrument light array which lights up the pointers has just about quit working and we can no longer tell how fast we are driving at night.
The light in the pointed indicator quit. I talked with Lexus of Carlsbad and they indicated that it would be around $1200.00 to fix. The whole light array must be replaced. The parts guy I talked with told me the same thing happened to his 1993 Lexus ES 300.
Lexus told me that since they did not service my vehicle there was nothing they could do. Servicing, of course, would not have affected this safety defect. I am sure there are other Lexus owners out there with the same problem. My mechanic indicated this was not unique to my Es 300
None at this point other than the safety factor and the potential cost of $1200.00
Marcus of Keller TX (01/17/07)
Lexus repair said my 98 LS400 with 150,000 miles on it had a sludged engine and needed replacing, originally taken in for check engine light and VSC OFF indicator. Code was 1349. Contacted LEXUS USA, no response.
Used/rebuilt engine cost...7,500 - 9,000 dollars. Unbelievable for a 54,000 dollar vehicle under 200,000 miles.
Renaldo of Eightmile AL (12/20/06)
I am not complaining about a particular dealership. I am appauled about your advertising. I have small children who watch television and it absolutely disgusts me to have to rush to the remote control and change the channel because a major auto maker is insinuating that it is alright to be in a same sex relationship. Two women and two men in a relationship breaks down the sanctity of the family. I know that the popular political thing to do now is stand behind gay relationships. I know that you know gay relationships are grossly inappropriate, spiritually and morally wrong. The family, with or without children, begins and ends with a man and a woman. It sickens me that you have succombed to the lie that the nontraditional family perpertrates. I, a concerned consumer, demand that you correct this disgusting wrong that you so boldly advertise to us all. I don't feel that you will respond to this complaint. I hope you will favorably do so. These advertisements need to STOP!
Harold of Blairsville, GA (08/18/06)
My wife owned a 2003 Lexus ES300. While turning into a parking space the car accelerated and ran into a concrete wall. She had only minor injuries caused by the seat belt across her chest. A police report was Filed with the Deland Florida Police Department. We contacted the dealer in Orlando Fl and told them what happened. My wife was terrified to even get in the car again so we traded it in on another Lexus. All of this information was passed on to corporate headquarters for Lexus of America. They insured me that the ES300 that was traded in would not be sold and that a tecnical team was being sent to that dealership and would tear that car down from bumper to bumper to find the problem.
A couple of weeks later I called the dealership to find out if they had discovered the problem. The salesman, named Sharieff, told me the car had been sold by the dealer agaist the instructions they had received from Lexus. I asked to speak to the sales manager, Mr. Dent. He came on the phone and I asked him why he sold the car when he was told not to and he stated that I'll do anything on I want with the car. Now some unsupectiing woman is driving a defective 2003 ES300.
Contact with my insurance agent at state farm indicated that they had bee notified of this problem with the ES300 by Lexus but Lexus would not issue a recall or let the public know. I will never buy another Toyota/Lexus product again. They will not admitt to a problem or step up to the plate when required then I can take my business elseware.
Jan of Freeport IL (04/18/06)
I have a 94 Lexus LS 400 and have been having trouble with the seatbelts in the front driver and passenger seats. They do no always retract and unless carefully put on, they are too loose to work properly.
They do hold in a quick stop if initially adjusted. However if one leans forward to pick up something off the floor, they do not retract and must be reapplied.
Does Lexus have other complaints for seatbelts on earlier models? I asked at the Lexus dealer in Rockford but they had no information on a recall at that time. I just wondered if there are many others who have complained?
Tracy of Maplewood NJ (01/29/06)
I had my HID lights stolen from RX 330 during the early morning hours on october 10 2005. There were 4 other lights taken from RX330s that weekend in maplewood alone. I questioned the lexus dealership in livingston (Warnock) about the problem they recommended the "data dots" anti theft device be installed and assured me that this would deter any thefts because it would be too difficult to remove the lights.
However despite the data dots the lights were taken again last week January 21,2006 at approximately between 8:30 and 8:45 pm. I am afraid of keeping the vehicle. My 12 year old daughter was seconds from catching the thieves in the act. she was on her way out front door to retrieve her cellphone. The theft took 10 minutes despite having the anti theft device, we were only home 10 minutes when the lights were stolen I am currently leasing the vehicle. I am facing another $1000.00 deductible payment .
I spoke with dealership (Prestige) who suggested calling the 1-800 lexus number to file a complaint and to follow up with leasing company to work out my own deal.Lexus has informed me that they can not assist me on this matter and can not provide any compensation. I am basically on my own. The vehicle is a target and feel that my family's safety is at risk every time we drive the vehicle. Inaddition I can no longer assume the financial burden for this vehicle, time off from work, towing charges, deductibles, So much for the pursuit of perfection.
I used to get non stop info from lexus including customer satisfaction surveys...its almost an obsession for them. I have't receive a call or any mailings since the october theft.The Rx 330 was their #1 selling vehicle. They want to keep this quiet. I have been told that the light theft issue is problematic in the north east of USA only.
Gretchen of Las Vegas NV (12/05/05)
I purchased a 2006 RX 330. I traded in my 1999 RX 300. Within three weeks I had two rear end accidents on the right end side, both with me backing up. None were dangerous. I had had two other that were similar but caused no damage. I was not drinking nor doing drugs drugs etc. That's not me. I started evaluating the car and the accidents and realized that this car has a blind spot. I even compared this car to my previous one.
The back window is curved differently and is smaller. I was unable to see the post that I hit when I checked it out. I am terrified that I could miss a child. This needs to be checked out. Could you help me out and check this out. Also can you make some recommendations as to where I could go to complain further.
Masood Tampa FL (11/28/05)
I took my Lexus ES300, 1998 (milage: 71,700) with the problem of having 'ABS' and 'Track Off' signs intermittently coming on while driving. The service shop kept the car for more than one week for diagnostic purpose and then recommended to replace '88263-24030 Relay, Skid Control' which I got done. But, then they called me back after another few days telling me that it did not work and I have to get whole ABS system replaced which will cost $ 3000.00.
I declined and took the car to Precision Toyota service for a second opinion and they showed me a recently split wire connecting the left front side to the ABS system (the wires were with smooth shiny silver surface from a well defined, apparently intentionally cut to permanently disable ABS system). They also told me that the only solution of this disrupted wire is to change the whole ABS system.
I sold my car at a loss of $3000.00 as I had to lower the price because of this so called Lexus Experts fraudulent act of intentional malpractice.
Dura of Guntersville AL (10/04/05)
I have a 1999 lexus rx300. I have had oil problems with since purchase -- it just would disappear. No mechanic could find leaks or evidence of use, so I had my car in to Lexus dealer for checking into this. They plainly stated on service papers they cleaned the sludge out of engine -- now two years later the engine has locked up due to oil gelling.
Again thinking there was a defect in vehicle I began to check the internet for similar complaints only to find hundreds of owners of this engine has the same problem and Lexus refuses to do anything about it because I can't find receipts or remember when oil changes were done.
Geraldine of Healdsburg CA (09/14/05)
My 2002 Lexus caught fire while I was driving on the freeway. The fire department said it was the fuel injection that caused the fire. Lexus service are the only people that have worked on my car and the only people that even lifted my hood. They will take no responsibility re: this loss. I ended buying a new Lexus and had to put $8,000. out of my pocket to buy it.
I surely thought Lexus would pay me the amount I had to use to purchase a new car. They offered me a $250 service after I had been with them since 1994 when I bought my first Lexus. I have recently heard of another Lexus owner that this happened to but they caught it in time and Lexus repaired it. I try and keep my cars between 8-12 years. Is this a cover-up with Lexus, are they responsible for my loss?
My car was declared a total loss. I have been in a panic ever since this happened whenever I smell smoke. I am a widow and could not afford to buy another car at this time. I thought surely this would last me ten years.
Yogesh of Fond Du Lac WI (05/05/05)
I own 99 Lexus RX 300. I have approximately 90000 miles on it. Recently I had problem with oil burning and the dealer told me that it is due to engine gelling which is due to a design flaw in some Lexus and Toyota engines. Company is asking all the oil change receipts since 1999 and I don't have all the oil change receipts and the mechanics erase all the records after a few years.
However I did provide the company with last seven oil change receipts. I have been changing oil religiously every 3000 to 4000 miles but do not maintain all the records. Company is denying the coverage for repair which is going to cost me $8000. I brought Lexus due to company reputation. I think the company did major goof up with their engine and does not want to admit it.I have seen on the internet that 3500 people are complaining about engine gelling which can not be a mere coincidence that all these people did not do oil changes. If the company does not provide assistence then I will never ever buy any Toyota cars in the future.
I will have to junk the car which I bought at $ 37000. It is not worth fixing if it costs $ 8000 and not knowing that problem will never occur in the future.
Ruth of Milwaukee WI (09/16/04)
I have a 1996 Lexus es300. The engine seized at 110K miles in 2003. The oil and filter were changed according to the service manual. The oil changes were not performed at the Lexus Dealer. The engine was replaced with another 1996 es300 engine(used). This is a cheaper option than rebuilding the engine. The vehicle was not under warranty at the time.
The engine seized while driving through downtown Chicago Hwy 94 on a very cold Sunday. That had to be the worst experience of my life. I lost all power to the car. Luckily the car didn't crash into any property or people. The car coasted to an off ramp and I was able to continue coasting to a place I can park the car until a Tow truck arrived. The brakes required a ton of pressure to stop the car. In Conclusion - Repair cost - $4-5K
Robert of Arlington VA (06/17/04)
I own a 2004 lexus rx330. I hear a slight ticking sound in the engine compartment. I mentioned it to my dealer service department and they stated that it a normal sound that comes from the fuel injector. However, I still find it hard to believe that a $40,000 automobile making a tickling sound is normal.
Kelly of Oroville CA (03/15/04)
I purchased my new Lexus IS300, 5-speed, in May of 2003. I began noticing a very bad sulfur or rottten egg smell, coming through the air vents just after a few thousand miles on my NEW car. I called Lexus and made a service appointment for a diagnostic test. The test came back fine, and they told me there is nothing wrong with my car.
Now I have twenty thousand miles on my car, and still continue to smell this awful smell. I have heard it could be a faulty catalictic convertor, hopefully they will have a recall so I can have this problem fixed. I am very disappointed Lexus owner, for this reason. I should have bought a Honda.
Kelly of Oroville CA (03/15/04)
I purchased my new Lexus IS300, 5-speed, in May of 2003. I began noticing a very bad sulfur or rottten egg smell, coming through the air vents just after a few thousand miles on my NEW car. I called Lexus and made a service appointment for a diagnostic test. The test came back fine, and they told me there is nothing wrong with my car.
Now I have twenty thousand miles on my car, and still continue to smell this awful smell. I have heard it could be a faulty catalictic convertor, hopefully they will have a recall so I can this problem fixed. I am very disappointed Lexus owner, for this reason. I should have bought a Honda.
Roy of Media PA (02/03/04)
In 2001 we were among the many unfortunate lexus/toyota customers (according to the web site) that were affected by an oil sludge problem. After a lengthy battle with lexus, and only after the story broke on the internet about the sludge problem lexus reimbursed us for the engine repair. Two years later in 2003, after several trips back to lexus for things that didn't seem right, only to be told things like, "only the sensor light, not a problem with the engine" also noises we heard, they did not. The oil was changed and the car maintained meticulously since the engine repair.
Dec 2003 the engine started making a loud noise, I took the car immediately to the dealer. They told us that it had "blown a rod in the piston" and needed $6,400.00 worth of engine work. Of course it is not covered. When i called an auto reapir shop near us in PA, who does all our inspections, he said that absolutely this would be caused from the original oil problem.
Roy of Media PA (2/3/04):
In 2001 we were among the many unfortunate Lexus/Toyota customers (according to the web site) that were affected by an oil sludge problem. After a legnthy battle with Lexus, and only after the story broke on the internet about the sludge problem Lexus reimbursed us for the engine repair.
Two years later in 2003, after several trips back to Lexus for things that didn't seem right, only to be told things like, "only the sensor light, not a problem with the engine" also noises we heard, they did not. The oil was changed and the car maintained meticulously since the engine repair.
Dec 2003 the engine started making a loud noise, I took the car immediately to the dealer. They told us that it had "blown a rod" and needed $6,400.00 worth of engine work. Of course it is not covered. When I called an auto reapir shop near us in PA, who does all our inspections, he said that absolutely this would be caused from the original oil problem.
I contacted Lexus customer office several times, those I spoke to assured me that the head of maintenance at the dealership where the work was done, Lexus of Wilmington, assured them that the original problem was not to blame. It seems quite obvious that he would say this, because he would be at fault for possibly not doing the repair correctly in the first place. No one at Lexus head office seems willing to go over the dealership. Now the repair is done, to the tune of $7,100.00, and we were never notified or asked about the increase. We are extremely frustrated.
In some Pennsylvania counties, Small Claims Court takes cases up to $10,000, so that should be the first place Roy goes. Suing in Small Claims is much less expensive and the odds are on the consumer's side.
George of Brooklyn NY (1/11/04):
Engine has sludge, transmission has to be rebuilt, vehicle is absolutely deffective.
Margaret of Chapin SC (4/4/03):
I own a 95 ES300 Lexus. Lexus was having a problem with the Toyota engines with the oil jelling and sludge building up in the engine. Because of this happening they extended the engine warranty back to the 1997 models. The same thing has happened to mine with 130,000 miles on it. I have been dealing with them and Lexus of California since the 3rd. of Feb.
These engines should get at least 200,000 or more. They say it's because of lack of maintenance. I have all my oil change receipts and offered to send them and was told if I send them in they would present it before the service dept. people and let them review the problem. I was told the car is too old and has too many miles. I do not feel this is a problem of mine and this is no different than the problem they had with the 1997 thru 2002. They know they have had a problem with these engines in the past, they just don't want to take mine under the warranty.
I have contacted an attorney, but don't feel its my place to spend the money on an attorney when I have a car I can't trade of sell, must less get rid of.
I have a automoble I can't trade, sell or get rid of. Lexus wants $4,900.00 to rebuild the engine and the blue book price on the car is about $5,000. At this rate my car which looks like NEW is worth about $1,000. An Attorney would cost me 1,500 to take the case. So I'm in a enonomic loss if I can't get Lexus-Toyota to extend the warranty to my car.
First, there is no way anyone will extend the manufacturer's warranty on an engine with 130,000 miles on it. Second, Margaret should remember that lawyer's fees are paid by the defendant if the case is successful. But it's not necessary to retain a lawyer. Like the other cases above, this one is worth taking to Small Claims Court. Margaret may not win but she has a better shot there than anywhere else.
David of Lithonia GA (3/27/03):
Took 93 Lexus GS 300 for repair. Check engine light was on. Our regular mechanic could not find anything wrong with the vehicle but did not have the diagnostic equipment to turn the check engine light off. He did advise us that we had a pinhole leak of power steering fluid and that this could be what was causing the smoking when the vehicle was hot and then was stopped. He changed the oil during this service and found no irregularities.
We told the dealership that the check engine light was on, that the car was smoking when stopped, and that we had a leak of power steering fluid. Lexus service center called us and told us that we had a major oil leak and that the rear main seal needed to be changed. They said we had no power steering leak. Also, several sensors needed to be replaced. The entire repair was going to cost approximately $2,000.
We declined the service because of the price. They countered by lowering the price to about 1400. We agreed. Within a week after the repair, the car starting racing while parked for no apparent reason. We took it back and was told that another sensor needed replacing. We allowed them to make the repair, which cost another $500. The car continued smoking. They told us that the old oil was burning off and to give it some time. After about a month, we took the car back because of continued smoking and the car was now using oil.
This time we were told that we needed a new motor but, because of the expense, we should buy a new car. We argued that we had just spent $2000 to have the car fixed and that this latest analysis was unacceptable. We made an offer that a refund of our $2000 was the least they could do. They refused and said they had fixed the problems that they should have the first time. The manager put the car up on the rack to try and convince us that we did not deserve our money back. While observing the car, I pointed out the leak that my regular mechanic had brought to my attention. The manager admitted that it was power steering fluid and that his mechanics had missed it. He offered to have it fixed.
We declined because we believed that their misdiagnosis had caused this entire problem and that their negligence had created a greater problem than we had previously had. Again, I insisted that we should be given our money back. Again, he declined. Our position now is that they should pay to have the motor replaced. Prior to taking the vehicle to them, we had never had an oil leak, nor any other major problems.
K.T. of Houston (2/17/03):
I have a 1999 Lexus RX300 which Has been taken in for all its required services. 200 miles after the warranty expired the engine light came on and some serious problems were found with the engine. They supposedly fixed it as a goodwill, but a month later the engine light came back on and now the charges to fix it are $700.00. This is the worst car I have ever owned. I would not recommend a Lexus to anyone.
Sam of College Park MD (10/22/02):
My wife took her 1991 Lexus ES250 to Lexus of Rockville because it was running poorly on 23 MAY 02. They charged her 198.68 for engine diagnostics and told her the car "needs new motor". The compression readings were not on the repair forms, so I recently called the dealer to get this data. They were supposed to call me back that morning a week ago. But later in May, my wife took the car to an independent garage in Columbia, got a tuneup and the car ran fine. Was this fraud or error? Should we ask for a refund? I called the second shop and they told me the engine had 170 lbs of compression on all cylinders, right on spec.
John of Ooltewah TN (5/30/02):
My 1996 ES 300 6 cylinder engine seized up due to oil sludge. I purchased this car off a lease turned back into a Lexus dealer. I changed oil more frequently than recommended. Toyota only reimbursing for cars 1997 and up.
Damage Resulting: Much time and trouble and $3,800 for a used engine that not as quiet or smooth as the original.
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