IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2022 Lexus ES

Facelift introduced a touchscreen infotainment system, revised grille, and improved ride comfort, addressing the biggest criticism of the original.

What changed for 2022

  • •New touchscreen system replacing touchpad-only interface
  • •Exterior styling updates and suspension retuning

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Minor sensor faults relating to parking assist
  • !Brake component wear, though regeneration extends pad life
4
Known Issues
0
Serious
3
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

12V Auxiliary Battery Drain

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The 12V battery on modern Lexus hybrids can drain quickly if the car is not driven for more than a few days, leading to a completely dead car that requires a jump start or battery replacement. The issue is exacerbated by parasitic draw from the infotainment standby, keyless entry, and connected telematics systems.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£250
Warning Signs:

Car won't unlock with key fob, Flickering dashboard lights on startup, Hybrid system warning after sitting

What to Inspect:
  • Ask if the battery has ever been replaced
  • Check for a trickle charger in the boot
  • Test voltage after the car has been sitting for 48 hours
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Sunroof Water Ingress and Slow Operation

ModerateInterior & Trim

ES models fitted with the panoramic sunroof can suffer from blocked drainage channels, leading to water ingress into the headlining and boot area. Additionally, the sunroof motor and tracks can become slow or noisy over time, particularly in cold weather when grease thickens.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£500 (cleaning/sealing) / £800–£1,200 (motor replacement)
Warning Signs:

Damp headlining or carpet near the sunroof frame, Slow or jerky sunroof opening/closing, Water dripping from interior light clusters

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect headlining around sunroof for water stains or dampness
  • Operate the sunroof fully open and closed to check speed and noise
  • Check boot side wells for moisture or rust
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Front Lower Suspension Arm Bush Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The ES is a heavy saloon, and the front lower suspension arm rear bushes can soften or tear over time, leading to vague steering feel, a dull thump over potholes, and inner-shoulder front tyre wear. This is a common MOT advisory on higher-mileage UK cars.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£600
Warning Signs:

Dull clunk from front suspension on rough roads, Steering feels loose or wanders on motorways, Uneven inner-edge front tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Drive over broken surfaces and listen for front-end knocks
  • Inspect front tyres for feathering on inner shoulders
  • Check suspension arm bushes for splits or oil leaks
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Headlight Beam Pattern and Washer Faults

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Headlight beam pattern failures and washer nozzle misalignment are common MOT advisories on the ES. The headlamp units can suffer from cloudy lenses or failing HID bulbs, while the washer jets can become clogged or misdirected, reducing cleaning effectiveness in winter salt conditions.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£350
Warning Signs:

MOT advisory for headlamp beam pattern, Cloudy or yellowed headlamp lenses, Washer fluid missing the headlamp glass

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect headlamp lenses for cloudiness or cracks
  • Test headlamp washers and check nozzle direction
  • Confirm beam alignment on a flat wall at night
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2022 Lexus ES

  • Ensure touchscreen operates smoothly with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Verify all over-the-air software updates applied