2006 Lexus ES Problems: 1 Known Issue
2006 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated November 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2006 Lexus ES has 1 documented issue, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is XV20/XV30 ES 300 and ES 330: U140E/U151E Automatic Transmission Slipping and Hesitation ($400-$4,000 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $400 to $4,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Lexus ES problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2006 Lexus ES has 1 documented issue. The documented issue is: XV20/XV30 ES 300 and ES 330: U140E/U151E Automatic Transmission Slipping and Hesitation. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Lexus ES reliable?
The 2006 Lexus ES has 1 known issue compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: XV20/XV30 ES 300 and ES 330: U140E/U151E Automatic Transmission Slipping and Hesitation. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Lexus ES problems?
Repair costs for known Lexus ES issues range from $400 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, XV20/XV30 ES 300 and ES 330: U140E/U151E Automatic Transmission Slipping and Hesitation, typically costs $400-$4,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1999-2006 Lexus ES XV20/XV30 ES 300 and ES 330: U140E/U151E Automatic Transmission Slipping and Hesitation?
The U140E four-speed (1999-2001 ES 300) and U151E five-speed (2002-2003 ES 300 and 2004-2006 ES 330) automatics used behind the 1MZ-FE and 3MZ-FE have two distinct documented failure patterns. Higher-mileage 1999-2003 ES 300 units slip - typically after the fluid warms up a coupl… Repairs typically run $400-$4,000. Severity: high.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.