The 2018 Lexus ES has excellent reliability. There are 2 recalls and 10 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Lexus ES. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (2), Engine (2), Vehicle Speed Control (2).
ES reliability snapshot
80/100
Latest model-year reliability score
4.0/5
RepairPal rating (good)
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Lexus ES before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Unknown Or Other2
Engine2
Vehicle Speed Control2
Air Bags1
Exterior Lighting1
Seat Belts1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2018 Lexus ES
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Test cruise control to ensure it slows to a complete stop
☐Inspect engine for unexpected shutdowns during test drive
☐Check for chemical odors or symptoms from ventilation system
☐Examine windshield for cracks or splits, especially after A/C use
☐Verify brake assist functionality in low-speed conditions
What owners reported
2018 Lexus ES owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 2 crashes and 2 injuries to NHTSA for the 2018 Lexus ES. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints2
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners of the 2018 Lexus ES report issues related to air quality inside the vehicle and structural integrity of the windshield. One complaint describes persistent itching and coughing experienced by both the owner and passengers, which persists despite multiple dealership visits and interventions such as cleaning and changing the cabin air filter. Another owner reports the front windshield splitting in half when the air conditioning was activated on a hot day. These issues do not specify exact mileage but indicate potential health and safety concerns, particularly regarding air quality and windshield integrity.
Owner complaints2
ENGINE
Owners of the 2018 Lexus ES report issues related to the engine, with two distinct problems noted. One owner describes a chemical substance entering the cabin through the ventilation system while driving, causing physical symptoms such as itching, coughing, and throat complications, even after the dealer cleaned the vehicle interior. This issue was observed at a low mileage of approximately 80. Another owner reports the engine unexpectedly shutting off and then restarting within seconds while driving at around 52 mph, with the vehicle's computer incorrectly indicating simultaneous brake and accelerator pedal depression. This incident occurred at about 9,000 miles. No crashes or fires are reported, but these issues could potentially affect vehicle safety and reliability.
Owner complaints2
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Owners of the 2018 Lexus ES report issues with vehicle speed control, primarily involving unintended acceleration and cruise control behavior. One complaint describes a sudden unintended acceleration while making a low-speed turn, with the vehicle accelerating across a parking lot before shutting off. Another complaint highlights concerns with the adaptive cruise control system, which disengages braking at approximately 25 mph, requiring the driver to manually stop the vehicle. These incidents occur at varying mileages, with one report noting the issue at 66,150 miles. Safety implications include potential loss of control and increased risk of rear-end collisions.
2018 ES recalls (2)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2018 ES. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
Consequence: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINENHTSA 20V012000Jan 13, 2020
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020.
On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Consequence: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began May 4, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB02 and 20TA02 for Toyota vehicles and 20LB01 and 20LA01 for Lexus vehicles.
Used-market value
2018 Lexus ES resale snapshot
$28,999median asking price from 23 listings
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
The 2018 Lexus ES demonstrates above-average reliability with a score of 80 out of 100, surpassing the segment average of 67. This indicates a solid performance in terms of dependability. The vehicle has experienced a limited number of recalls, suggesting that significant manufacturing defects are not widespread.
Complaints are minimal and distributed across various categories, with no single area overwhelmingly affected. This distribution suggests that no systemic issues dominate the model's performance. The sixth year of the generation typically benefits from refinements in design and manufacturing, which likely contributes to the vehicle's reliability.
Overall, the 2018 Lexus ES presents a low-risk option for buyers seeking a dependable vehicle within its segment.
What you get in a 2018 Lexus ES report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
Check a 2018 Lexus ES now
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2018 Lexus ES — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2018 Lexus ES reliable?
The 2018 Lexus ES demonstrates above-average reliability with a score of 80 out of 100, surpassing the segment average of 67. This indicates a solid performance in terms of dependability. The vehicle has experienced a limited number of recalls, suggesting that significant manufacturing defects are not widespread.
How many recalls does the 2018 Lexus ES have?
2 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2018 Lexus ES. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2018 Lexus ES problems?
The most-reported 2018 Lexus ES problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (2), Engine (2), Vehicle Speed Control (2).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2018 Lexus ES?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2018 Lexus ES, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
