There are no safety recalls for the 2002 Lexus ES, but owners have filed 27 complaints with NHTSA.
2002 Lexus ES problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Engine | 8 | |
| Power Train | 5 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 5 | |
| Structure | 5 | |
| Electrical System | 5 | |
| Wheels | 3 | |
| Air Bags | 3 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 2 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 2 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 2 | |
| Steering | 2 | |
| Unknown or Other | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 5
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 4
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control — 1
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 104,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2002 Lexus ES complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Air Bags · at 110,000 miles · reported Jan 28, 2026
The contact owns a 2002 Lexus ES 300. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5 MPH in the driveway and turning into the garage, the vehicle unintentionally accelerated, hit a beam, drove through the garage wall, and into the dining area of the residence, crashed into the furniture, and stopped. The air bags did not deploy. The contact noticed sparks and smoke coming from the dashboard after the impact. There was no injury sustained. There was property damage. The contact stated that she had previously filed a complaint regarding the vehicle's sudden and unintended acceleration. A…
Engine · reported Jul 23, 2022
During a trip on the highway the accelerator was to low and take harder to accelerate the car. When we arrived home close to parking end the car suddenly accelerated while I was using the brakes pedal. I was lucky to stop on time. Thanks for your attention.
Electrical System · reported Dec 26, 2020
I tried to start my car out of no where it wouldn't start no warning or anything I checked the starter that wasn't it I'm not sure off it's the engine or an electrical problem
Engine · at 173,000 miles · reported Oct 23, 2020
The contact's mom owned a 2002 lexus es 300. The contact stated that while driving at 3 MPH, the vehicle began to emit a thick white, yellowish smoke from the driver side headlight without warning. As the contact attempted to pull the vehicle over,the vehicle began to lose power as a bystander altered the contact that the vehicle was on fire. The contact immediately exited the vehicle and the authorities were called to the scene. The fire department arrived at the scene and was able to extinguish the fire. A police and fire report was filed at the scene. Due to the fire, the vehicle was…
Fuel/Propulsion System · at 151,000 miles · reported Jun 25, 2020
Car began to lurch, stopped, smoke and flames began coming out of front of car. Fire enlarged, several small explosions. Firemen put out fire, but front half of car totally burnt.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2002 Lexus ES have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2002 Lexus ES as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 Lexus ES?
Owners report engine problems most often (8 reports), followed by power train (5). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 104,000 miles.
Are Lexus recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Lexus dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.