PROBLEM GUIDE

2013–2016 Lexus ES Common Problems

Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.

Last updated June 2026

50

complaints filed for the 2013 model year

2013–2016

Model years affected

The sunroof spontaneously shatters without external impact — one owner described hearing 'a loud gunshot like sound' while driving at highway speeds with no identifiable cause. Sudden brake failure or loss of power steering assist has also been documented, with owners citing brake booster assembly failure and electronic brake boost malfunction during highway driving.

Quick Scan: 5 Issues

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PROBLEM DETAILS

Sunroof spontaneously shatters without impact

"A loud gunshot like sound" while driving at highway speeds

Check engine light: Off

The sunroof spontaneously shatters without external impact — one owner described hearing 'a loud gunshot like sound' while driving at highway speeds with no identifiable cause.

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Sudden brake failure or loss of power steering assist

Brake booster assembly failure and electronic brake boost malfunction

Check engine light: On

One owner states brakes 'malfunctioned, almost resulted in a life threatening car accident'; multiple owners cite brake booster assembly failure and electronic brake boost malfunction during highway driving.

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Vehicle accelerates suddenly when the brakes are applied

Owners unable to stop the vehicle

Check engine light: On

Vehicles suddenly accelerate when the brakes are applied, with owners unable to stop the vehicle.

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Door lock actuator repeated failures

Also reported on the previous-generation Lexus ES

Check engine light: Off

Door lock actuator failures recur on this second generation — the same problem is reported on the first-generation Lexus ES (2007-2012).

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Dashboard "sticky"/melting surface

Also reported on the previous-generation Lexus ES, where a goodwill program has expired

Check engine light: Off

Dashboard 'sticky'/melting complaints and windshield glare persist from this nameplate's first generation, where it was covered by a Customer Support Program (ZLZ) that expired in 2021.

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No recall specific to this generation has been identified covering the problems below. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.

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