Dealer visit checklist
2022 Lexus ES 350 checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2022 Lexus ES 350 problems to check
- Multimedia touchscreen interface (prior to the 2022 touchscreen update) can feel laggy and unintuitive for some users, though the 2022 model improved responsiveness
- Road noise intrusion at highway speeds is occasionally reported despite active noise cancellation, particularly noticeable on coarse pavement
- Fuel economy falls short of segment leaders like the Genesis G80 2.5T, averaging only 22 mpg city in real-world mixed driving
- Some owners report premature wear on brake rotors, typically around 40,000-50,000 miles, especially in stop-and-go urban use
- Wireless Apple CarPlay was not standard on base trims, requiring a physical USB connection which frustrates modern buyers
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $34,500 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away