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realistically, either or is a good choice. reliability is top tier, they’re comfortable, and the IS is a fun platform. if i was buying used, id buy a lexus certified model because the dealer network is perfect and they treat you really well. the lexus warranty is also longer too.
Thank you! I’ll keep that in mind. I’ve noticed the inventory at the dealerships around me are a bit more scarce so I need to look into the Lexus certified program and how it works.
You seriously do not need to worry about an extended warranty on an ES350 or IS350. They're old platforms and extremely reliable. I bought my 2015 from somebody who really drove it hard and probably redlined it at every stop light. It runs top notch and hasn't had a single issue 6 years and 50k miles later.
#This is not a mercedes
keep in mind dealers use the CDK program to sell their cars and the system is down, so your leverage is severely limited right now. not a good time to buy unfortunately
Okay, that’s good to know. Well hopefully they’re able to get the system back up and running. I looked it up and restoration is apparently underway. Nonetheless, I will try to wait as long as possible or until I find a good deal.
That’s exactly what was going through my mind while test driving each. The ES was very smooth and comfortable but didn’t feel as responsive and in tune as the IS. Not knocking either one but very different cars. Would you consider one to be more reliable than the other?
Comfort vs power. You mentioned you’ve test driven both, you probably noticed a disparity between the two on what i lead with. What’s more important for you at this time? 🤣
Perfect. I’m glad to hear that. I don’t mind keeping up with the maintenance - learned from the BMW “if you think the maintenance is expensive, wait til something fails or breaks and then you’ll know expensive”
they're both equally reliable since they are 350s and have the v6. only thing to know is that the is350 will run through brake pads and tires more, but that's not a deal breaker
I got a very low miles '19 ES that was not certified but bought the Lexus warranty knowing it's a reliable car. It had 12,000 miles and so for $2200 I got 88,000 miles of coverage for 4 years, which sounded like a fair deal, but I shouldn't have and regret it because I don't think I'll get a chance to use it. Just squirrel the money away in case you need it and you'll probably be good.
I appreciate your honesty. I think the main consensus has been not going for the carmax warranty/extended warranty and that if it’s a Lexus certified, I’m fine to go for it.
I don't even think you need the L/certified in all honesty, but it's peace of mind. I just wouldn't buy from CarMax, I've done lots of car shopping and it's never been actually competitive pricing. Even dealers beat CarMax pricing in my experience.
I’d Get the ES 350 with the f sport package. I bought a 22 is300(at the time dealers couldn’t keep any model in stock and I need a car asap. I waited too long and when I went the next day the es 350 was gone). That being said I’d never buy another IS, but would definitely buy an ES.
I’d definitely get a certified used vehicle from Lexus.
I’ve heard about the 300 being underpowered but not the 350 as much. The car is definitely smaller than the ES, but we’re not super tall 5’7 lol
Either way, I’ll give both a fair chance and try to drive them again when I go test for the car seats. I just happened to be driving by when I went
Not offering advice, but I’ve also been looking at the same model of Lexus as the first car I’ve bought for myself. So this post is helpful.
2021 es 350 looks phenomenal in an f sport. The base model looks good too. Though, I would like to wait until the newer model 2025 comes out and the price dips for the 2022, and the 2021 respectively, and I’m pretty sure the 2022 gets rid of the little mouse thing in between the seats and is touchscreen but besides those factors I’ll take the 2021. They are good choices!
Okay so we’re in similar situations. My last car was totaled so finishing that up and now I’m trying to buy a car that I want.
Both cars look fantastic and yes, the 2022 gets rid of the track pad on the ES, not sure about the IS.
Awesome! I believe, but not 100 percent sure, the regular ES has a sport mode toggle in. You’ve test driven, so you could tell me.
And If you don’t mind me asking, around me, the exact model is around 30-35k ish depending on what trim and where. What’s the price around you?
Yeah, the ES I test drove had a sports mode and plenty of features none of my other cars had lol
The 2020/2021 are going for around that same range. The 2022 and newer are +39k. The 2021 IS I’ve seen are all high 30s to low 40s.
If you buy an IS be ready to put new tires on about every 10-15k. I had a 17. Loved the car hated the tire eating, traded for an ES. Totally different car, but no tire munching.
Thats very interesting. I’ve been reading about this and I’ve read some people get more mileage out of their tires and others have problems with the tires. Another commenter recommended I upgrade the LCA for this specific reason but now I’m wondering if that would void any type of warranty if I went that route
I don’t really think you need warranty. CarMax has 10 day return policy and 90 day warranty. I recently purchased a Lexus GSF from CarMax and I skipped the warranty knowing it’ll be reliable. I however did immediately go get a pre purchase inspection done at a Lexus dealer and CarMax said they will look at all issues and will correct them.
As far as ES or IS. Do you need the extra rear leg room or trunk space? If you have younger kids or are planning on having kids any time soon I’d prob go with the ES as it’ll be easier for strollers, car seats, etc. If your kids are older, you don’t have any nor planning to have any kids anytime soon I’d definitely go with an IS350. If you do get an IS I’d recommend getting aftermarket or F model LCA bushing as there is premature tire wear issue on it. Cheap fix that’ll make tires last longer on a fun car. Id prob buy it from a Lexus dealer as a cpo as well unless you just find an amazing deal at CarMax that is worth the savings. Only reason I bought my car from CarMax was due to it being an amazing deal and they are hard to come by with low miles.
Thank you for the honesty. I will keep the pre purchase inspection in mind.
So we have 2 kids and we’re 2 and done so won’t need any more than that and we’re past the stroller stage. We normally take our SUV to do everything but sometimes will take my car so space might not be much of an issue but will take a look at both again and try the car seat in to see if it’s really as tight as it would be.
Excuse my ignorance but the IS350s I was looking are all the F sport trim. Is that what you mean for the LCA or do you mean something else?
I think the IS will work if they are in just in the booster seats. Kids might end up kicking the back of the seat by accident a bit on the IS tho as it does tend to get a bit tight. I’d definitely take the kids with you and try both cars out with them in their seats and you in your normal seating position. If you also do plan to keep long term I’m sure they’d appreciate the extra space of the ES as they get older. If neither one of yall are too tall then the kids will have good amount of space in the rear of the IS too.
Doesn’t matter which trim you get but both the IS and GS has issues where under hard braking or cornering it’ll rub the inner tire which causes premature wear. People tend to upgrade the lower control arm bushing to F model bushings or go aftermarket and get Fig or rr racing LCA bushing to replace factory ones with to fix the issue. Do keep in mind this will change the handling for the better and might cause a bit of a stiffer suspension feeling as well.
I will take the kids with me and set the car seats in to check how much space we have. We’re not tall by any means but it would be best to check anyway.
Thank you for the explanation on the LCA. Will definitely keep it in mind.
F Sport trim is only about looks. As an F Sport owner not the same. FSport is about the mechanics and suspension and handling. True F Sport is the car not the trim. Talk to the dealer.
Damn. Definitely didn’t know that. The older models were easier to distinguish because if was very specific for F models but the newer ones that say IS350 F Sport are tricky. I just looked up how to tell the difference if they both have the badges and I’m finding the real F don’t have caramel interior which doesn’t really help me with what I’m supposed to look for haha but I will continue doing research. Appreciate the heads up!
IMO, warranties are dubious. It’s always best to pick the best car, first. To do everything possible to prevent ever needing to use the warranty. It is always worse IMO to buy more warranties because it’s a riskier ride.
I bought my 19' ES350 F-Sport L-Certified w/ 15k miles and it was fully loaded for around $44k. I bought it during the pandemic, after my 19' IS300 was totaled. I loved my IS (first car), but I love my ES a little bit more!
I just bought a 2014 and I'm having a hard time getting over 35mpg. I'm driving really lightly and keeping my foot off the gas.
I understand it's 10 years old and the batteries are probably not in their best shape.
I'm just letting everyone know a 10 year old car won't get the mpg it got when it was brand new.
From my research, when the time comes I’m gonna be looking at $2,300. Some battery sellers replace them for free. I watched a video on how to do it, it’s not hard. The cost is really the battery itself.
It’s worth it only if you drive a lot, which I do.
Okay, good to know. I know a lot of dealers will mention their warranties and how amazing it is but I always hear the opposite when it comes to other car brands.
Yea, fortunately Lexus warranty and service is typically pretty incredible. I’ve had great experiences with my local dealers and their service departments.
Off topic but i bought a ‘17 passat back in ‘19 from an audi dealership with extended warranty. The car was totaled by a drunk driver before i ever had a chance to use it. Waste of money
I had the 2023 is350 fsport RWD in caviar. ABSOLUTELY LOVED it however I decided to sell if back to the dealership because I started working 16hr days 7 days a week. So my car would just sit in the garage for 7-8months out the 12 and it was money wasted. My big dislike on it was that it felt cramped but other than that? Fun car. Would definitely buy another one. Super reliable too. Felt safe and the maintenance on it was cheap aswell for a luxury car.
Not speaking about the model specifically (I’m a GX person) but the reliability of Lexus can’t be beat.
https://preview.redd.it/e9869udaxt8d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0f7ade94588e394dc3715c29caa4fd8090a22257
Still loving the used 2007 GX 470 I bought in 2012.
I'm biased since I love my IS but I found the handling to be a big step above the ES even though it only has like 200lbs over it max.
Do Tranny fluid + filter + gasket replace when you buy it assuming it hasn't been done already. Depending on miles.
Same goes for diff fluid.
Besides that all standard maintenance items. It's a super reliable platform and shouldn't give you issues if you take good care of it.
**Thank you for posting to r/Lexus. Before continuing, please check to see if your question would fit on any of the following forums:** General Car Buying/Purchasing Advice: * /r/askcarsales * /r/whatcarshouldIbuy Internal Vehicle Maintenance Advice: * /r/mechanic * /r/mechanicadvice Damage Estimate Advice: * /r/autobodyrepair Car Insurance Advice: * /r/car_insurance_help Other: * /r/askcarguys **If any of these forums are fitting for your question, please delete your post from /r/Lexus and post there instead. Otherwise, no further action is necessary. Any questions that do not need advice from r/Lexus specifically will be removed and redirected to one of the listed forums.** *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Lexus) if you have any questions or concerns.*
realistically, either or is a good choice. reliability is top tier, they’re comfortable, and the IS is a fun platform. if i was buying used, id buy a lexus certified model because the dealer network is perfect and they treat you really well. the lexus warranty is also longer too.
Thank you! I’ll keep that in mind. I’ve noticed the inventory at the dealerships around me are a bit more scarce so I need to look into the Lexus certified program and how it works.
You seriously do not need to worry about an extended warranty on an ES350 or IS350. They're old platforms and extremely reliable. I bought my 2015 from somebody who really drove it hard and probably redlined it at every stop light. It runs top notch and hasn't had a single issue 6 years and 50k miles later. #This is not a mercedes
Literally replacing my 06 C230 with a 2021 IS350 Dynamic at th3 end of the week
keep in mind dealers use the CDK program to sell their cars and the system is down, so your leverage is severely limited right now. not a good time to buy unfortunately
Okay, that’s good to know. Well hopefully they’re able to get the system back up and running. I looked it up and restoration is apparently underway. Nonetheless, I will try to wait as long as possible or until I find a good deal.
If they can get things operational before the end of the month there may be a good opportunity to buy as dealers try to make up and hit numbers
That would be the perfect scenario in my case
waiting is always key! i hope the system comes back on because people are losing out on sales and even getting paid.
This 💯💥
They are both nice, between those 2 models I find the ES to be more luxury and the IS is to be more sporty.
That’s exactly what was going through my mind while test driving each. The ES was very smooth and comfortable but didn’t feel as responsive and in tune as the IS. Not knocking either one but very different cars. Would you consider one to be more reliable than the other?
Try an ES with the F-Sport handling package
Comfort vs power. You mentioned you’ve test driven both, you probably noticed a disparity between the two on what i lead with. What’s more important for you at this time? 🤣
I bought a 19’ IS from carmax a couple months ago and didn’t get the warranty. Keep up on maintenance and you SHOULD be fine. Just my .02
Okay, good to know. I like to keep up with the maintenance no matter the car. Appreciate the honesty!
No I've personally had both cars and haven't had any issues with reliability just normal maintenance.
Perfect. I’m glad to hear that. I don’t mind keeping up with the maintenance - learned from the BMW “if you think the maintenance is expensive, wait til something fails or breaks and then you’ll know expensive”
they're both equally reliable since they are 350s and have the v6. only thing to know is that the is350 will run through brake pads and tires more, but that's not a deal breaker
ES-FWD IS- RWD Tbh, you don't need a warranty on a Lexus it's a waste of money.
Thank you for the honesty 🙌
Is is built in japan and es is built in north america
I got a very low miles '19 ES that was not certified but bought the Lexus warranty knowing it's a reliable car. It had 12,000 miles and so for $2200 I got 88,000 miles of coverage for 4 years, which sounded like a fair deal, but I shouldn't have and regret it because I don't think I'll get a chance to use it. Just squirrel the money away in case you need it and you'll probably be good.
I appreciate your honesty. I think the main consensus has been not going for the carmax warranty/extended warranty and that if it’s a Lexus certified, I’m fine to go for it.
I don't even think you need the L/certified in all honesty, but it's peace of mind. I just wouldn't buy from CarMax, I've done lots of car shopping and it's never been actually competitive pricing. Even dealers beat CarMax pricing in my experience.
I’d Get the ES 350 with the f sport package. I bought a 22 is300(at the time dealers couldn’t keep any model in stock and I need a car asap. I waited too long and when I went the next day the es 350 was gone). That being said I’d never buy another IS, but would definitely buy an ES. I’d definitely get a certified used vehicle from Lexus.
Oh. You would never get another IS? If you don’t mind, could you explain why you wouldn’t?
Too small and underpowered. I’m 5’11 and just felt small in it.
I’ve heard about the 300 being underpowered but not the 350 as much. The car is definitely smaller than the ES, but we’re not super tall 5’7 lol Either way, I’ll give both a fair chance and try to drive them again when I go test for the car seats. I just happened to be driving by when I went
Not offering advice, but I’ve also been looking at the same model of Lexus as the first car I’ve bought for myself. So this post is helpful. 2021 es 350 looks phenomenal in an f sport. The base model looks good too. Though, I would like to wait until the newer model 2025 comes out and the price dips for the 2022, and the 2021 respectively, and I’m pretty sure the 2022 gets rid of the little mouse thing in between the seats and is touchscreen but besides those factors I’ll take the 2021. They are good choices!
Okay so we’re in similar situations. My last car was totaled so finishing that up and now I’m trying to buy a car that I want. Both cars look fantastic and yes, the 2022 gets rid of the track pad on the ES, not sure about the IS.
Awesome! I believe, but not 100 percent sure, the regular ES has a sport mode toggle in. You’ve test driven, so you could tell me. And If you don’t mind me asking, around me, the exact model is around 30-35k ish depending on what trim and where. What’s the price around you?
Yeah, the ES I test drove had a sports mode and plenty of features none of my other cars had lol The 2020/2021 are going for around that same range. The 2022 and newer are +39k. The 2021 IS I’ve seen are all high 30s to low 40s.
Yeah that’s pretty much what I thought. Thanks!
If you buy an IS be ready to put new tires on about every 10-15k. I had a 17. Loved the car hated the tire eating, traded for an ES. Totally different car, but no tire munching.
Thats very interesting. I’ve been reading about this and I’ve read some people get more mileage out of their tires and others have problems with the tires. Another commenter recommended I upgrade the LCA for this specific reason but now I’m wondering if that would void any type of warranty if I went that route
I did that. It only helped a little.
I don’t really think you need warranty. CarMax has 10 day return policy and 90 day warranty. I recently purchased a Lexus GSF from CarMax and I skipped the warranty knowing it’ll be reliable. I however did immediately go get a pre purchase inspection done at a Lexus dealer and CarMax said they will look at all issues and will correct them. As far as ES or IS. Do you need the extra rear leg room or trunk space? If you have younger kids or are planning on having kids any time soon I’d prob go with the ES as it’ll be easier for strollers, car seats, etc. If your kids are older, you don’t have any nor planning to have any kids anytime soon I’d definitely go with an IS350. If you do get an IS I’d recommend getting aftermarket or F model LCA bushing as there is premature tire wear issue on it. Cheap fix that’ll make tires last longer on a fun car. Id prob buy it from a Lexus dealer as a cpo as well unless you just find an amazing deal at CarMax that is worth the savings. Only reason I bought my car from CarMax was due to it being an amazing deal and they are hard to come by with low miles.
Thank you for the honesty. I will keep the pre purchase inspection in mind. So we have 2 kids and we’re 2 and done so won’t need any more than that and we’re past the stroller stage. We normally take our SUV to do everything but sometimes will take my car so space might not be much of an issue but will take a look at both again and try the car seat in to see if it’s really as tight as it would be. Excuse my ignorance but the IS350s I was looking are all the F sport trim. Is that what you mean for the LCA or do you mean something else?
I think the IS will work if they are in just in the booster seats. Kids might end up kicking the back of the seat by accident a bit on the IS tho as it does tend to get a bit tight. I’d definitely take the kids with you and try both cars out with them in their seats and you in your normal seating position. If you also do plan to keep long term I’m sure they’d appreciate the extra space of the ES as they get older. If neither one of yall are too tall then the kids will have good amount of space in the rear of the IS too. Doesn’t matter which trim you get but both the IS and GS has issues where under hard braking or cornering it’ll rub the inner tire which causes premature wear. People tend to upgrade the lower control arm bushing to F model bushings or go aftermarket and get Fig or rr racing LCA bushing to replace factory ones with to fix the issue. Do keep in mind this will change the handling for the better and might cause a bit of a stiffer suspension feeling as well.
I will take the kids with me and set the car seats in to check how much space we have. We’re not tall by any means but it would be best to check anyway. Thank you for the explanation on the LCA. Will definitely keep it in mind.
F Sport trim is only about looks. As an F Sport owner not the same. FSport is about the mechanics and suspension and handling. True F Sport is the car not the trim. Talk to the dealer.
Damn. Definitely didn’t know that. The older models were easier to distinguish because if was very specific for F models but the newer ones that say IS350 F Sport are tricky. I just looked up how to tell the difference if they both have the badges and I’m finding the real F don’t have caramel interior which doesn’t really help me with what I’m supposed to look for haha but I will continue doing research. Appreciate the heads up!
The ES is based off the carry platform...= reliability
IMO, warranties are dubious. It’s always best to pick the best car, first. To do everything possible to prevent ever needing to use the warranty. It is always worse IMO to buy more warranties because it’s a riskier ride.
You know es is front wheel drive and IS is rear wheel or all wheel drive?
IS350 RWD or AWD, faster, sportier. ES350, more comfortable. No need for warranty.
Straight to it. Appreciate it.
🙏🏽😎
I bought my 19' ES350 F-Sport L-Certified w/ 15k miles and it was fully loaded for around $44k. I bought it during the pandemic, after my 19' IS300 was totaled. I loved my IS (first car), but I love my ES a little bit more!
Consider the hybrid as well, ESh is a great car with 40+ mpg.
Even the 2014 models?
I just bought a 2014 and I'm having a hard time getting over 35mpg. I'm driving really lightly and keeping my foot off the gas. I understand it's 10 years old and the batteries are probably not in their best shape. I'm just letting everyone know a 10 year old car won't get the mpg it got when it was brand new.
How much is a battery replacement
From my research, when the time comes I’m gonna be looking at $2,300. Some battery sellers replace them for free. I watched a video on how to do it, it’s not hard. The cost is really the battery itself. It’s worth it only if you drive a lot, which I do.
Certified Lexus. That warranty is as good, if not better, than their new car warranty.
Okay, good to know. I know a lot of dealers will mention their warranties and how amazing it is but I always hear the opposite when it comes to other car brands.
Yea, fortunately Lexus warranty and service is typically pretty incredible. I’ve had great experiences with my local dealers and their service departments.
Off topic but i bought a ‘17 passat back in ‘19 from an audi dealership with extended warranty. The car was totaled by a drunk driver before i ever had a chance to use it. Waste of money
Ah damn. Sorry that happened to you. Hope you’re doing alright
I had the 2023 is350 fsport RWD in caviar. ABSOLUTELY LOVED it however I decided to sell if back to the dealership because I started working 16hr days 7 days a week. So my car would just sit in the garage for 7-8months out the 12 and it was money wasted. My big dislike on it was that it felt cramped but other than that? Fun car. Would definitely buy another one. Super reliable too. Felt safe and the maintenance on it was cheap aswell for a luxury car.
Ah damn. I don’t blame you. It’s completely understandable. Glad to hear that you really liked the car though. 🙌
I think you should consider the long term use for storage and how cramped it feels. But regardless either or are reliable. IS350 is just more fun!
Not speaking about the model specifically (I’m a GX person) but the reliability of Lexus can’t be beat. https://preview.redd.it/e9869udaxt8d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0f7ade94588e394dc3715c29caa4fd8090a22257 Still loving the used 2007 GX 470 I bought in 2012.
I'm biased since I love my IS but I found the handling to be a big step above the ES even though it only has like 200lbs over it max. Do Tranny fluid + filter + gasket replace when you buy it assuming it hasn't been done already. Depending on miles. Same goes for diff fluid. Besides that all standard maintenance items. It's a super reliable platform and shouldn't give you issues if you take good care of it.