2002 Lexus ES300
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Lexus › ES300 › 2002
These records cover every 2002 Lexus ES300. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 2002 Lexus ES300. Newest first.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the left front brake tube may have been deformed prior to vehicle delivery due to improper installation of a coil spring spacer that was installed to prevent damage to the vehicle during transportation.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the brake tube IS deformed significantly, it could contact the inner fender panel, and eventually cause damage to the tube due to vibration during driving. brake tube damage could also lead to brake fluid leakage after extended use of the vehicle.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the front brake line and, if necessary, replace the line. owner notification began january 1, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact lexus at 1-888-333-9376.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with a three-spoke style steering wheel. during air bag deployment, it IS possible that the bottom seam of the front driver's side air bag module cover (horn pad) could be torn away allowing the bottom portion of the cover to completely detach from the air bag module.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If this should occur, there IS a possibility that the detached bottom portion may strike the driver causing personal injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the driver's side air bag module. owner notification began december 28, 2001. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact toyota at 1-800-331-4331 or lexus at 1-888-333-9376.
Owner complaints
153 complaints37 involved a crash5 involved a fire24 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Seats
TL* the contact owns a 2002 lexus es300. While the contact was stopped in traffic, the vehicle was rear ended at 45 mph by another vehicle. Both the front driver and passenger seats collapsed. As a result, the rear passengers sustained traumatic brain injuries that required medical attention. The…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 lexus es300. While the contact was stopped in traffic, the vehicle was rear ended at 45 mph by another vehicle. Both the front driver and passenger seats collapsed. As a result, the rear passengers sustained traumatic brain injuries that required medical attention. The driver and front passenger sustained head injuries, but did not require medical attention. The driver of the other vehicle was not injured. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was notified and did not assist. The approximate failure mileage was 155,000. The vin was not available. *Tt*jb
- Electronic stability control (esc)
I replaced the battery on my lexus and it would no longer idle you take your foot off the accelerator and the engine dies.. The computer lost the idle parameters this IS dangerous as I turned left off one road to another took my foot from accelarator to brake engine died and I lost power steering almost wrecked most mechanics are aware of this defect lexus refused to admit it google it all over internet
- Vehicle speed control
2002 lexus excelerated on it's own.i was getting on freeway I stepped on gas to go with flow of traffic , then traffic started backing up so I went to use brakes to slow down but car kept excelerating. I had to use both feet to try to stop ,then I felt a pop from gas pedal at that time it stopped excellerating
- Fuel/propulsion system · Unknown or other
While driving on a freeway the car made a sudden & brief shutter immediately followed by loss of response by the accelerator pedal. I immediately began to move off the freeway knowing that something was wrong with my car. Upon getting o the off ramp I saw flames coming from around the front left…
While driving on a freeway the car made a sudden & brief shutter immediately followed by loss of response by the accelerator pedal. I immediately began to move off the freeway knowing that something was wrong with my car. Upon getting o the off ramp I saw flames coming from around the front left tire. I put the car into park, turned the engine off and exited the vehicle. Within a very few minutes the car was completely engulfed in flames. Passers by who stopped to assist me indicated that they saw flames underneath the car as I was pulling off the freeway. There was no indication of fire (either flames, smoke or gauge indications) for me s the driver until I had exited to the off ramp. The car has been deemed a total loss with cause listed as " undetermined" by the insurance co.
- Air bags
Side airbags near windshield are leaking when it rains. at first it was a slow leak, but really pours in now
- Engine
Large cloud of white/gray smoke when car sits overnight from previous night driving. after researching online this seems to be a common problem. there was a lawsuit filed because of this. why not a recall????
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2002 lexus es300. While driving 30 mph, there were flames and a black substance coming from the engine compartment of the vehicle. The fire department was able to extinguish the fire. A police report was not filed and there were no injuries sustained. The vehicle was towed to…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 lexus es300. While driving 30 mph, there were flames and a black substance coming from the engine compartment of the vehicle. The fire department was able to extinguish the fire. A police report was not filed and there were no injuries sustained. The vehicle was towed to an auto body repair center, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 130,000. The vin was unavailable.
- Engine and engine cooling
On 1/8/15 at approx. 9:30 am, I was driving to work south on hwy 95 near exit 67 . Suddenly, other drivers were frantically waving at me to pull over onto the shoulder of the highway. What they saw ( and which I couldn't), was that there were flames under my car. I pulled over and got out of the…
On 1/8/15 at approx. 9:30 am, I was driving to work south on hwy 95 near exit 67 . Suddenly, other drivers were frantically waving at me to pull over onto the shoulder of the highway. What they saw ( and which I couldn't), was that there were flames under my car. I pulled over and got out of the car. Within seconds ( not even a full minute), the entire car was engulfed in flames and soon became a complete and total charred mess. Fortunately, I was not physically hurt and a maryland state trooper came onto the scene 2-5 minutes after I got out of the car. The cause of the fire IS unknown at this time. *tr
- Engine · Power train · Unknown or other
Dealer and finance company claim clean title but documents reflect otherwise. *tr
- Power train
When the transmission shifts between first and second gears at a slow steady speed(approx 20mph) the car will frequently violently jerk. my car has 75000 miles and has done it since day one. *tr
- Fuel/propulsion system · Vehicle speed control
Several times when I accelerate from a stop sign...car surges. *tr
- Power train
My 2002 lexus es300 has been jerking and shifting very hard on acceleration. it seems to have more of a problem when I accelerate slowly in the lower gears. it jerks very noticeably. I was told it was just the nature of the car, but it has been getting much worse over the course of the last year. it also hesitates when stepping on the gas after deceleration. *tr
- Power train › Automatic transmission · Vehicle speed control
My 2002 lexus ES 200 was dying or not starting at all. suddenly, it was working fine. 2 days later, while idling or when my foot was on the brake, it would lurch forward and start accelerating at sometimes 40mph. I had to slam on the brakes, then emergency brake to stop, then after I turned it off, it would shake forward. *kb
- Air bags › Frontal · Vehicle speed control
TL* the contact owns a 2002 lexus es300. The contact stated that while at a stand still and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle suddenly accelerated. The vehicle continued to accelerate until crashing into the vehicle in front of the contact. As a result, the contact experienced pain on the…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 lexus es300. The contact stated that while at a stand still and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle suddenly accelerated. The vehicle continued to accelerate until crashing into the vehicle in front of the contact. As a result, the contact experienced pain on the right shoulder, chest and upper arm. The driver of the vehicle that was crashed into was transported by ambulance to the hospital because she experienced back pain. The police reported to the scene and a report was filed. The vehicle sustained damage to the front end and was towed to an auto body shop. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a complaint was filed. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 74,000. updated 08/30/11 the consumer also stated the air bags failed to deploy. Updated 11/30/11
- Air bags
TL* the contact owned a 2002 lexus es300. The contact stated that the vehicle was involved in a head on crash in which the air bags did not deploy. The driver sustained serious injuries to the neck, spine and shoulder. A police report was available and the vehicle was destroyed. An authorized…
TL* the contact owned a 2002 lexus es300. The contact stated that the vehicle was involved in a head on crash in which the air bags did not deploy. The driver sustained serious injuries to the neck, spine and shoulder. A police report was available and the vehicle was destroyed. An authorized dealer was notified and informed the contact to notify the manufacturer. The manufacturer was not yet made aware of the failure. The failure and current mileages were 92,000.
- Engine and engine cooling · Vehicle speed control
I was stopped at a red light approximately 3-4 ft. Behind a utility truck. Suddenly the car surged forward and hit the rear end of the truck in front of me.
- Vehicle speed control
2002 lexus es200. Attorney writes on behalf of client in regards to unintended acceleration *tgw the attorney stated his client was injured when the vehicle accelerated on its own and crashed into wall and metal fence, even though the brakes were being applied. *Jb
- Power train › Automatic transmission
Lexus (2002 ES) has dramatic transmission stutter at low or high speeds, jerking occupants and making quick starts (turning across lanes) very dangerous. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling
Check engine light came on and car acceleration was limited. error codes p2121 and p2128 indicated faulty "throttle position sensor" the part retails for around $100. Lexus insisted that I had to replace the complete accelerator pedal assembly with a new throttle position sensor. Lexus charged me…
Check engine light came on and car acceleration was limited. error codes p2121 and p2128 indicated faulty "throttle position sensor" the part retails for around $100. Lexus insisted that I had to replace the complete accelerator pedal assembly with a new throttle position sensor. Lexus charged me $764 to replace both assemblies. I believe lexus should have covered the cost of all of the cost of replacing the accelerator pedal assembly. my vehicle IS a 2002 lexus es300. *Tr
- Vehicle speed control
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 lexus es300. When he drove out of the parking approximately 10 mph, the vehicle suddenly accelerated. He began to panic and crashed into a parked vehicle and a fence. The vehicle stopped when he crashed into a tree and the left front tire came off. He received injuries to…
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 lexus es300. When he drove out of the parking approximately 10 mph, the vehicle suddenly accelerated. He began to panic and crashed into a parked vehicle and a fence. The vehicle stopped when he crashed into a tree and the left front tire came off. He received injuries to the left side of his body. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The police report IS available upon request. The manufacturer stated that an engineer will examine the vehicle. The failure and current mileages were 58,000.
- Exterior lighting › Turn signal
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 lexus es300. While driving various speeds the contact noticed that the turn signal volume was very low and could not be heard when it was activated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the vehicle could not be serviced for the failure. The contact had experienced the failure since the vehicle was purchased. The failure mileage was 3000 and the current mileage was 82000.
- Power train › Manual transmission
2002 lexus es300, car lunges and jerks during acceleration and deceleration. car drove fine until lexus upgraded software, and then 100% noticeable difference in performance. car was brought to jm lexus approx 4-5 times for problem, and once to palm beach lexus. car jerked during test drive with…
2002 lexus es300, car lunges and jerks during acceleration and deceleration. car drove fine until lexus upgraded software, and then 100% noticeable difference in performance. car was brought to jm lexus approx 4-5 times for problem, and once to palm beach lexus. car jerked during test drive with mechanic. I was told it was a "characteristic" of the car, and there was nothing that can be done to fix it. mechanic stated he has seen the same problem on other cars. problem has been getting worse. *Tr
- Power train › Automatic transmission
I have a 2002 lexus es300. my car at slower speeds has been jerking/surging at lower speeds and lurches forward without notice. it IS a nightmare to drive this car in traffic. I keep being told its normal, it seems hundreds of others have complained, but I'm not getting anywhere. the lexus…
I have a 2002 lexus es300. my car at slower speeds has been jerking/surging at lower speeds and lurches forward without notice. it IS a nightmare to drive this car in traffic. I keep being told its normal, it seems hundreds of others have complained, but I'm not getting anywhere. the lexus dealership did a software upgrade recently, it only made the matter worse. I hate driving this car, everyone in my family avoids driving it, as we just don't feel comfortable in the way it accelerates and shifts gears. its a 2002 model, with 49K miles. I avg 25K miles a year driving, do the math, this car sucks, and I avoid using it out of fear/annoyance. *tr
- Vehicle speed control
I owned a 2002 lexus ES 300 which in january 2010 before the craze of the acceleration became popular, it took off, without provocation, shift locked, acceleration locked, and brakes didn't work. I filed a bbb.org complaint, I faxed, emailed, facebooked, and twittered toyota lexus concerning my…
I owned a 2002 lexus ES 300 which in january 2010 before the craze of the acceleration became popular, it took off, without provocation, shift locked, acceleration locked, and brakes didn't work. I filed a bbb.org complaint, I faxed, emailed, facebooked, and twittered toyota lexus concerning my concerns, and the fact that as a disabled vet, who spent his entire earnings on a car for his family, and that vehicle crashed without provocation, and asked for their help. they never answered the bbb complaints with the USA location or north american, from facebook, they said to contact the customer satisfaction department, which I did. when contacting the customer satisfaction department, their jobs are to attempt to talk fast, in the attempt to say it was drivers error. I told them that I wasn't interesting in suing, wasn't interested in placing blame, just interested in their help in assisting me in repairing my garage, and their assistance in me getting a new used vehicle, that's all. I informed them that while hurt by the accident, I wasn't nor didn't seek a attorney, or legal representation, and that I would think that they would want to assist this veteran as a act of kindness. I only asked that they assist in my home repairs, and getting another same like vehicle, in alternate, helping me with my home repairs deductible and assisting me in getting another vehicle, and as a last alternative, I asked them if they would issue a non-qualifying certificate so other than income, I could purchase a vehicle from them, to accomodate my families needs, they just ignored me, now I want justice, because my request were not outrageous. if they would help me get another vehicle for my families needs, I would be totally satisfied, I don't believe in always going through the courts what people can do. *Tr
- Service brakes, air · Vehicle speed control
I had just left my doctor's office and gone to a parking structure where I had parked my car for the visit. I paid the parking charge, got back my validated ticket, and inserted the ticket in the gate-arm machine. the gate lifted, and I put my foot lightly on the accelerator to exit from the…
I had just left my doctor's office and gone to a parking structure where I had parked my car for the visit. I paid the parking charge, got back my validated ticket, and inserted the ticket in the gate-arm machine. the gate lifted, and I put my foot lightly on the accelerator to exit from the parking structure into the street. the car then picked up speed, well past what it should have picked up based on the light pressure I had put on the accelerator, and the brakes had no effect. the car went faster and faster, crossed a street, and crashed into a concrete wall. on impact, the airbags were deployed. I suffered serious back pain, and my wife was in the hospital for three nights with two broken ribs. the car was totaled. *Tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Unwanted and unintended acceleration
The office of defects investigation (odi) opened dp09-001 on april 8, 2009, to evaluate a defect petition requesting additional investigation of potential throttle control system defects unrelated to floor mat interference with accelerator pedals in model year (my) 2007 lexus ES 350 vehicles.the petitioner referenced…
The office of defects investigation (odi) opened dp09-001 on april 8, 2009, to evaluate a defect petition requesting additional investigation of potential throttle control system defects unrelated to floor mat interference with accelerator pedals in model year (my) 2007 lexus ES 350 vehicles.the petitioner referenced an earlier odi investigation concerning floor mat interference with accelerator pedal return (pe07-016/ea07-010), which he stated was too narrow in scope as it did not include all incidents of unwanted acceleration and consider all potential causes of vehicle speed control concerns.the petition also requested an investigation of my 2002-2003 lexus es300 for those 'longer duration incidents involving uncontrollable acceleration where brake pedal application allegedly had no effect' that were determined not to be within the scope of investigation pe04-021. As background, the petitioner owns a my 2007 lexus es350 that allegedly experienced an unwanted and uncontrolled acceleration event (odi complaint number 10261660).toyota concluded that the incident was caused by an unsecured floor mat. To assess the petitioner's request, odi interviewed the petitioner, inspected his vehicle, reviewed information submitted by toyota, reviewed owner complaints alleging incidents of unwanted acceleration in the subject vehicles and material related to the investigations cited by the petitioner.odi identified 64 complaints alleging incidents of unwanted acceleration in my 2007 lexus vehicles, resulting in 8 crashes and 15 injuries.odi's analysis of these complaints determined that 50 (78%) involved incidents of floor mat interference, including 7 (88%) of the crashes and all 15 injuries.therefore, odi's analysis found that the only defect trend related to vehicle speed control in the subject vehicles involved the potential for accelerator pedals to become trapped near the floor by out-of-position or inappropriate floor mat installations. On october 5, 2009, toyota initiated a safety recall (recall 09v-388) to address concerns with potential accelerator pedal entrapment by floor mats in approximately 3.8 million vehicles, including the subject vehicles.except insofar as the petitioner's contentions relate to that recall, the factual bases of the petitioner's contentions that any further investigation IS necessary are unsupported. In our view, additional investigation IS unlikely to result in a finding that a defect related to motor vehicle safety exists or a nhtsa order for the notification and remedy of a safety-related defect, as alleged by the petitioner, at the conclusion of the requested investigation.therefore, in view of the need to allocate and prioritize nhtsa's limited resources to best accomplish the agency's safety mission, the petition IS denied.this action does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist.the agency will take further action if warranted by future circumstances.please see thefederal register notice for further details.
- Vehicle speed control
In a letter dated july 8, 2005, and after experiencing two incidents (and one crash) where he alleges his model year (my) 2002 camry accelerated without driver input, mr. Jordan ziprin petitioned the national highway traffic safety administration?s (nhtsa) office of defects investigation (odi) to commence a proceeding…
In a letter dated july 8, 2005, and after experiencing two incidents (and one crash) where he alleges his model year (my) 2002 camry accelerated without driver input, mr. Jordan ziprin petitioned the national highway traffic safety administration?s (nhtsa) office of defects investigation (odi) to commence a proceeding to determine the existence of a defect within the etc system in my 2002 to 2005 toyota and lexus vehicles, or to reopen a prior investigation preliminary evaluation (pe) 04-021.in a letter dated august 18, 2005, mr. Ziprin amended his petition to include allegations of interrelated brake and acceleration problems that allegedly result in inappropriate and uncontrollable vehicle accelerations.the 1172 vehicle owner questionnaire reports cited by the petitioner involve 4 lexus and 15 toyota models defining a population of 7 million vehicles.the reports typically alleged a defect in the brake system, the throttle control system, or a combination of both systems.in its review of the reports, odi a) failed to find evidence to support the existence of a brake related defect in the cited models, and b) determined that many cited products were not equipped with etc.accordingly, odi restricted its analysis to the 432 petitioner reports involving my 2002 to 2005 camry, solara, and ES models (all equipped with etc) that alleged an abnormal throttle control event (see the january 3, 2006 federal register notice for further details).about 40% of the 432 reports involve a driveability concern where the operator intentionally applies the throttle pedal, in expectation that the vehicle will accelerate, and then experiences a delay or hesitation in vehicle response.these reports involve vehicle response to intentional driver commands which odi considers unrelated to the allegations raised by the petitioner.therefore, the reports do not provide support for the investigation requested.about 20% of the reports involve incidents where operators allege vehicle acceleration without driver input and an inability of the brake system to control the vehicle when applied.neither the reports, nor the interviews conducted by odi, identified any vehicle-based cause to explain the incidents or disclosed evidence to support that a failure of the brake or throttle control system had occurred.because these reports do not indicate a distinct safety defect for investigation, the reports do not provide support for the investigation requested by the petitionerthe remaining reports (~ 40%, similar to the petitioner?s and those of pe04-021) typically describe incidents where a vehicle IS being maneuvered at slow speed in a close quarter situation at which point the operator alleges that the vehicle accelerates without driver input and crashes.in the aftermath, operators are unsure of whether the brakes were applied or not, sometimes stating there was insufficient time to use the brake; a crash occurred and the operator believes an uncommanded acceleration caused it.in spite of the effort expended during pe04-021 and during this analysis, odi has not identified any vehicle-based cause to explain the reports, or uncovered any evidence to indicate that a throttle control system failure occurred.therefore, the reports have ambiguous significance and do not constitute a basis on which any further investigative action IS warranted.based on the analysis conducted, it IS unlikely that the nhtsa would issue an order for the notification and remedy of a safety related defect at the conclusion of the investigation requested in the petition.consequently, in view of the need to allocate and prioritize nhtsa?s limited resources t
- Throttle control system
The lexus models were the subject of defect petition (dp) 04-003.twelve odi complaints are duplicative to toyota reports, including the two minor crashes.the V6 equipped solara models have been excluded because they do not contain the subject throttle control system.toyota introduced electronic throttle control (etc)…
The lexus models were the subject of defect petition (dp) 04-003.twelve odi complaints are duplicative to toyota reports, including the two minor crashes.the V6 equipped solara models have been excluded because they do not contain the subject throttle control system.toyota introduced electronic throttle control (etc) on the subject vehicles beginning in model year (my) 2002.odi opened the investigation to determine if the system could be the cause of complaints alleging the engine speed increased, or failed to decrease, (for a short duration) when the accelerator pedal was not depressed (the alleged defect).during the course of the investigation, odi analyzed agency data and reviewed vehicle owner questionnaire (voq) reports, conducted interviews involving 113 voq and 36 toyota reports, inspected two complainant vehicles, reviewed relevant toyota service and new car feature documentation, reviewed and analyzed toyota?s responses to odi?s information request letter, conducted a limited control pedal assessment, and attended a toyota technical presentation that included the assessment of two demonstration vehicles.through interviews, odi identified 14 voq and 6 toyota reports (20 unique vehicles) where complainants report multiple occurrences of the alleged defect.in some cases the condition was experienced by different vehicle operators or was witnessed by other occupants.odi was unable to make a determination as to the cause of 9 toyota and an additional 37 voq reports (which describe 28 unique incidents) due to insufficient information.the remaining complainants interviewed (62 voq, 21 toyota) described conditions not caused by a failure of the throttle control system and were thus considered unrelated to the investigation.none of the complainants interviewed reported a component failure (or other indicator of a system failure) as the potential cause of incidents relevant to this investigation.in many cases, the complaint vehicles were subsequently inspected by dealership or manufacturer representatives who also failed to identify a fault within the vehicle.toyota identified 43 related warranty claims, 24 of which were for diagnostic purposes only (no repairs performed).odi found nothing abnormal in the control pedal configuration of the subject vehicles.a defect trend has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.accordingly, this investigation IS closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist.the agency will take further action if warranted by the circumstances.see the attached summary for further detail.
- Throttle control system
The population number noted above IS estimated.in the january 15TH, 2004 petition request letter to the national highway traffic safety administration (nhtsa), the petitioner identified 37 voq complaints as related to vehicle speed control issues similar to those the petitioner allegedly experienced in their own…
The population number noted above IS estimated.in the january 15TH, 2004 petition request letter to the national highway traffic safety administration (nhtsa), the petitioner identified 37 voq complaints as related to vehicle speed control issues similar to those the petitioner allegedly experienced in their own vehicle on multiple occasions (as described in the petition request letter).during it's consideration of the request, the office of defects investigation (odi) reviewed the 37 complaints and concluded that 34 of the complaints did not involve a throttle control issue as described and alleged by the petitioner; three voqs (one of which IS the petitioner's) do allege a throttle control issue.however, the throttle control issues alleged by the petitioner are similar to those alleged in the supporting voqs for preliminary evaluation pe04-021 which involves the throttle control system on model year 2002 and 2003 toyota camry and camry solara models.based on odi's review of available service information, it appears the throttle control system manufactured on the lexus es300 models IS the same as, or similar to, the throttle control system used on the toyota camry and camry solara models.accordingly, the es300 models will be added to the scope of pe04-021 and the petition IS granted.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11003643Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. While the quality and durability of paint on Lexus vehicles is continuously being improved, it remains the dealers responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicles paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.
- 11003642Lexus vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to remove the RapgardTM protective film within 90 days from initial application. SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin No. L-PG004-94. The entire bulletin has been updated.
- 11003641Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small, red or brown particles on the paint surface. These particles are often difficult to see on dark color paints but can be easily felt when brushing a hand across horizontal body surfaces such as the hood, roof, or deck lid. Follow the Repair Procedure in this bulletin to clean vehicles that may have been subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles such as rail dust during rail transportation or extended storage near industrial areas.
- 11003588Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. While the quality and durability of paint on Lexus vehicles is continuously being improved, it remains the dealers responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicles paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.
- 11003587Lexus vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to remove the RapgardTM protective film within 90 days from initial application. SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin No. L-PG004-94. The entire bulletin has been updated.
- 11003586Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small, red or brown particles on the paint surface. These particles are often difficult to see on dark color paints but can be easily felt when brushing a hand across horizontal body surfaces such as the hood, roof, or deck lid. Follow the Repair Procedure in this bulletin to clean vehicles that may have been subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles such as rail dust during rail transportation or extended storage near industrial areas.
- 10214355Lexus Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements 4.13.2022
- 10207945POL: This consolidated Tire Warranty Guide contains the complete warranty terms for all brands of ground and spare tires currently in use by Lexus. This information must be kept near the point of vehicle sale and be available to any customer that requests it. Customers can find this information on the Owner?s section of Lexus.com. Dealers can locate a copy of this guide on the Claims Processing & Resource Center in Dealer Daily as well.
- 10205383Spots in Window Glass - vehicle exterior
- 10205352Windshield Wiper Blade Maintenance and cleaning
- 10205346Auto matic Transmission Replacement kPrecautions
- 10205331Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset
- 10205330Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset
- 10205329Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset.
- 10205327Techstream ECU Flash Reprogramming Procedure.
- 10205319Brake Pedal Force Gauge SST for Parking Brake Inspection.
- 10179697TSB: Vehicles may display evidence of a fluid leak or fluid seep from powertrain components. This bulletin explains how to determine the differences between a fluid leak versus a fluid seep. Cases that are determined to be a ?leak? should be repaired accordingly and will be covered under warranty if applicable. Cases that are determined to be a ?seep? should be documented on the repair order and inspected at the next service interval. Follow the Repair Information in this bulletin to determine if the concern in question is a fluid leak or fluid seep and review the Repair Procedure section to address this condition.
- 10179601TSB: Vehicles may display evidence of a fluid leak or fluid seep from powertrain components. This bulletin explains how to determine the differences between a fluid leak versus a fluid seep. Cases that are determined to be a ?leak? should be repaired accordingly and will be covered under warranty if applicable. Cases that are determined to be a ?seep? should be documented on the repair order and inspected at the next service interval. Follow the Repair Information in this bulletin to determine if the concern in question is a fluid leak or fluid seep and review the Repair Procedure section to address this condition.
- 10177783TSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE June 23, 2020: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see L-SB-0023-20.
- 10177780TSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. ST004-01, SU001-08, and L-SB-0174-08. The aforementioned bulletins are obsolete, and any printed versions should be discarded. Be sure to review the entire content of this service bulletin before proceeding. This Service Bulletin provides best practice procedures for vehicle pulling complaint, diagnosis, and repair for 2002 ? 2021 model year Lexus vehicles. This information supplements Repair Manual procedures when the symptoms are: ?Vehicle Pulling: The vehicle moves to the right or left when the driver holds the steering wheel while driving straight ahead without exerting steering effort. ?Steering Wheel Off Center: The vehicle travels straight, but the steering wheel is not pointed straight ahead. The vehicle is not pulling. Before repairing a vehicle pulling to one side, it is necessary to clearly identify the cause of the pulling condition. Frequently, pulling to one side is diagnosed as a wheel alignment concern. However, the actual cause may be related to the lateral force generated by the tires, vehicle damage, road crown or worn components. Performing a wheel alignment when tire force is the cause could result in the wheel alignment being set at a value outside of specifications. This could then cause other problems such as uneven tire wear, etc. A customer may notice a pull to the left when in the left lanes of travel and notice a pull to the right or no pull when traveling in the right lanes of travel on the very same section of roadway. This road crown effect is environmental and cannot be corrected with suspension adjustments or any other wheel or tire modification discussed in this bulletin.
- 10176283Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements
- 10174889TSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE April 06, 2020: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see L-SB-0008-20. Replacement Certification Labels and VIN Plates
- 10174888TSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. L-SB-0048-08, PG007-07, PG016-01, PG015-01, PG004-97, PG003-97, PG003-93, PG002-90, L-SB-0048-08, PG007-07, PG016-01, PG015-01, PG004-97, PG003-97, PG003 93, and PG002-90. The aforementioned bulletins are obsolete, and any printed versions should be discarded. Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1990 ? 2020 model year vehicles may be available provided the requests meet the criteria listed in this Service Bulletin.
- 10133926In the recent Bi-annual Floor Mat reminder letter distributed November, 2012, Lexus indicated that we were developing support materials that will help remind dealership customers and associates of the importance of proper floor mat usage.
- 10133923Lexus vehicles are equipped with SRS, including various airbags and in some models, seat belt pre-tensioners, to help reduce the risk of injury in a collision. If a customer expresses any concerns that the SRS airbags or pretensioner devices did not per
- 10133914Flash reprogramming allows the ECU software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Techstream ECU flash reprograming process and outlines use of the TIS and the CUW.
- 10133910When servicing interior electrical switches and components, please note the precautions in this bulletin to avoid damaging electrical components and switches. Many lubricants, cleaners, and automotive chemicals contain silicone or other compounds that may contaminate electrical contacts, and therefore increase electrical resistance and decrease switch performance. The use of any cleaners or fluids may increase the risk of further damage to electrical components.
- 10133849A new Special Service Tool (SST 09709-00002) has been introduced to aid in the inspection procedure for certain vehicles equipped with a floor pedal-type parking brake system. This bulletin references the correct method for installing the Brake Pedal Force Gauge. Refer to the appropriate Repair Manual for parking brake pedal travel inspection and adjustment specification.
- 10132778TSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE-June 12, 2014: This bulletin is now obsolete.
- 10132777TSB: Flash reprogramming allows the ECU software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Techstream ECU flash reprogramming process and outlines use of the Technical Information System (TIS) and the Calibration Update Wizard (CUW). Flash calibration updates can only be applied to the vehicle/ECU combination for which they are intended. ECUs have internal security that will not allow them to be programmed with another ECU?s information.
- 10132739TSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE: July 7, 2014: This bulletin is now obsolete.
- 10132734TSB: The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased.
- 10132726TSB: The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased.
- 10132625TSB: Revision Notice: Applicability section has been updated to include 2016-2017 applicable model year Lexus vehicles. The Repair Procedure section, Required Tools & Equipment section, and the Repair Procedure section has been updated. Flash reprogramming allows the ECU software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Techstream ECU flash reprogramming process and outlines use of the Technical Information System (TIS) and the Calibration Update Wizard (CUW). Flash calibration updates can only be applied to the vehicle/ECU combination for which they are intended. ECUs have internal security that will not allow them to be programmed with another ECU?s information.
- 10132108This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see L-SB-0082-14.
- 10132083Adhesive & sealant cross reference Information
- 10132074Beginning in 1998, Lexus introduced side airbags as optional equipment. Lexus does NOT recommend replacement of original seat covers with non-Lexus leather or other seat cover materials on vehicles due to the following: Seat covers NOT recommended by Lexus may affect side airbag performance, in general or in part, during an accident. Modifications that negatively affect side airbag performance can result in severe occupant injuries. Seat covers are an integral part of this safety system. Replacing fabric seat covers with non-Lexus leather or other seat cover materials may compromise the effectiveness of this safety system. The design of the seat is complex, integrating safety and strength with comfort and luxury. Lexus strongly discourages modifying original equipment seats that have optional side airbags. Additionally, Lexus strongly advises against the installation or use of aftermarket seat covers, which could impair the performance of the side airbags in the event of an accident.
- 10132006This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see L-SB-0092-13.
- 10132004The following procedures are recommended during routine maintenance or in the event of a customer concern for wiper performance.
- 10131964Lexus vehicles are equipped with Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS), including various airbags and in some models, seat belt pre-tensioners, to help reduce the risk of injury in a collision. If a customer expresses any concerns that the SRS airbags or pre-tensioner devices did not perform as expected (including an unintended deployment event), please follow the steps in the recommendations section below.
Every Lexus ES300 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.