Dealer visit checklist
2023 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 2023 Lexus ES 350 problems to check
- Infotainment system uses an older touchpad interface (pre-2022 redesign carries over) that many owners find unintuitive and distracting compared to modern touchscreens
- Wind noise intrusion around the A-pillar and door seals has been noted by multiple owner reviews at highway speeds, though it rarely requires warranty repair
- Occasional hesitation or slight roughness from the 8-speed automatic transmission during low-speed parking-lot maneuvers, more a characteristic than a defect
- Paint and trim scratching more easily than expected for the price point — ceramic coating or paint protection film is a worthwhile early investment
- Road noise from the standard tires on coarser pavement surfaces is above average for the class, particularly on the base 17-inch tire spec
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $36,500 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