Lexus

ES (XV20)

2000-2001 · Midsize Sedan · 1 engine
Best Engine Avoid (1.8)
106 NHTSA Complaints
0 Recalls
5 Fire Reports
29 Crash Reports

Engine Reliability Comparison

1MZ-FE

3.0L 6-cyl / 210 hp
Avoid (1.8)
69 complaints 28.0 per year Gasoline
5 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

transmission
14
electrical
12
other
12
brakes
12
engine
10

Known Issues

Transmission Issues (14 complaints)
Electrical System Issues (12 complaints)
Brakes Issues (12 complaints)

Also found in

TOYOTA Camry (2002-2006)TOYOTA Avalon (2013-2018)LEXUS ES (2000-2001)FORD Excursion (2000-2005)FORD Escape (2001-2007)LEXUS SC (2000-2000)TOYOTA Highlander (2001-2007)TOYOTA Prius (2000-2003) +38 more

Vehicle-Level Issues

These issues affect the Lexus ES regardless of engine variant.

Transmission Issues (14 complaints)
transmission critical
Electrical System Issues (12 complaints)
electrical critical
Brakes Issues (12 complaints)
brakes critical
Engine Issues (10 complaints)
engine critical

Alternatives in Midsize Sedan

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2000-2001 Lexus ES problems?

The 2000-2001 Lexus ES has accumulated 106 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Transmission, Electrical System, Brakes. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.

Which Lexus ES engine is most reliable?

The 2000-2001 Lexus ES was offered with 1 engine option. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 3.0L 6-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.

Is the 2000-2001 Lexus ES a good used car?

The 2000-2001 Lexus ES can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 106 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.

How many NHTSA complaints does the 2000-2001 Lexus ES have?

The 2000-2001 Lexus ES has 106 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.

What recalls affect the 2000-2001 Lexus ES?

There are 0 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2000-2001 Lexus ES vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.

What should I check before buying a used Lexus ES?

Before buying a used Lexus ES, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Transmission, Electrical System, Brakes, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 106 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-06.

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