2021 Lexus ES: common problems and reliability

The 2021 Lexus ES has 34 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 1 recall on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and steering. 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 2021 model year

34
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
2
Crash reports
0
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 Lexus ES vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

air bags
25
steering
2
wheels
2
forward collision avoidance
2
service brakes
1

Recalls affecting the 2021 ES

air bags:sensor:occupant classification

Campaign 23V865000

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybri…

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 ES2018 ES2015 ES2012 ES2006 ES2004 ES2001 ES1997 ES
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