2006 Lexus ES: common problems and reliability

The 2006 Lexus ES has 79 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and vehicle speed control. Owners most often flag infotainment touchpad interface — described as annoying, difficult to use; preference for post-2022 touchscreen models. frequency: recurrent.

Safety record for the 2006 model year

79
Owner complaints
0
Recalls
18
Crash reports
1
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2006 Lexus ES vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

air bags
26
vehicle speed control
22
power train
11
service brakes
6
steering
5

What owners say across generations

Overwhelmingly positive sentiment centered on exceptional long-term reliability, low operating costs, and a comfortable, quiet, and refined driving experience. The ES is consistently praised as a durable, low-stress luxury sedan ideal for high-mileage commutin

  • Infotainment touchpad interface — described as annoying, difficult to use; preference for post-2022 touchscreen models. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Steering rack leaks — noted on higher-mileage examples (e.g., 2010 model with 137k miles). Frequency: isolated.
  • CV axle boot leaks — reported after extended high-speed driving. Frequency: isolated.
  • Strut and engine mount wear — expected high-mileage maintenance items (e.g., on a 2010 model with 137k miles). Frequency: isolated.
  • Intermittent electrical/starting issues — clicking relays, failure to start (e.g., 2019 model). Frequency: isolated.

Owner insights cover all generations of the ES.

Typical used price

Used ES listings typically run $51,553–$56,216 across 2025 to 2026 model years.

Other ES model years

2025 ES2024 ES2021 ES2018 ES2015 ES2012 ES2004 ES2001 ES1997 ES
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