1999 Lexus ES
Only 8 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 8 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1996 | 1 |
| 1997 | 2 |
| 1998 | 1 |
| 1999 | 8 |
| 2000 | 6 |
| 2001 | 2 |
| 2002 | 27 |
| 2003 | 23 |
| 2004 | 16 |
| 2005 | 58 |
| 2006 | 12 |
| 2007 | 125 |
| 2008 | 68 |
| 2009 | 28 |
| 2010 | 40 |
| 2011 | 45 |
| 2012 | 30 |
| 2013 | 32 |
| 2014 | 3 |
| 2015 | 5 |
| 2016 | 8 |
| 2017 | 2 |
| 2018 | 5 |
| 2019 | 34 |
| 2020 | 17 |
| 2021 | 27 |
| 2022 | 8 |
| 2023 | 8 |
| 2024 | 9 |
| 2025 | 4 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 8 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 8 total reports mention: electrical system.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
WIFE DROVE LEXUS 2 MILES TO BAKERY, CRUST N'CRUMBS AT 1370 N MAIN ROAD, VINELAND, NJ. WHEN SHE CAME OUT OF BAKERY, SMOKE WAS COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. SHE CALLED ME. I DROVE THERE AND RAISED THE HOOD.
NHTSA ODI report, 20201026
DURING A DRIVE HOME, THE CAR SUDDENLY JERKED COMING TO AN ALMOST COMPLETE STOP. THE PANEL LIGHT CAME ON WITH THE ABS. IT THEN RETURNED TO RUNNING SMOOTHLY> I RETURNED HOME WITHIN I MILE WITHOUT FURTHER PROBLEMS, NO ODOR OR PANEL SIGNS SHOWING.
NHTSA ODI report, 20060712
1 of 8 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
THE FOLLOWING LETTER TO LEXUS & THEY DENIED FAULT OR OBLIGATION TO ASSIST ME: I SPOKE WITH HEATHER STAFFORD WHO ASKED ME TO CALL 800-348-2788 TO GET MY CAR INSPECTED BY A LEXUS IN CHARLESTON SC.
NHTSA ODI report, 20060511
1 of 8 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
1 of 8 total reports mentions: suspension.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 LEXUS ES 300. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO FISHTAIL. THE BRAKES FAILED AND THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A TREE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20070611
1 of 8 total reports mentions: seat belts.
SAFETY TIMELINE
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONF
Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Campaign 09E012000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1999 Lexus ES — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 09E012000 (exterior lighting) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 1999 Lexus ES reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1999 Lexus ES?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 25% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1999 Lexus ES have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.