Lexus Repair & Service Shop | Menlo Park, Daly City, Atherton, Palo Alto, CA

We are a top-rated local Lexus repair services shop in Menlo Park, CA. We serve the greater San Francisco Peninsula, including Atherton, Daly City, Palo Alto, and Belmont. M & R Auto specializes in import vehicles, with extensive expertise repairing and maintaining all Lexus models. We want to empower Lexus owners by outlining some of the most widespread problems reported across the brand’s lineup. Being aware of these key issues can help catch problems early and understand when professional service may be required.

REQUEST A CALLBACK

Brake Replacement

Your car’s braking system is the first line of defense in an impending accident. Driving a car with bad brakes puts the driver and other road users at risk of an accident. On the other hand, ensuring your vehicles have well-functioning brakes can save your life and other road users. Therefore, ensure your brakes are in good condition before driving.

A good braking system is important to a safe journey. At M & R Automotive Repair, we offer brake replacement services needed for the safe operation of the vehicle. We have expert technicians trained to fix your vehicle brakes. So you can be assured that your car is in safe hands.

SMOG Check

We are a STAR certified SMOG check station. If you need a smog check to register your vehicle in California, we can help. Give us a call if you have any questions about getting your vehicle smogged, or click the button below to schedule an appointment to bring your vehicle in.

Lexus ES 300h

The Lexus ES 300h hybrid sedan aims to deliver both fuel efficiency and trademark Lexus luxury. However, even this refined vehicle experiences occasional glitches. Here are three of the top concerns.

Unexpected Acceleration: Some owners have experienced the vehicle suddenly accelerating when attempting to park or brake, potentially leading to crashes. This generally points to a malfunction with the electronic throttle control system.
Hybrid Battery Failure: Premature failure of the hybrid battery is common, resulting in reduced fuel economy and electric-only driving range. Warning lights signaling hybrid system problems typically precede complete failure.
Electrical System Issues: Problems with battery charge capacity, charging system components like the alternator, and sudden battery failure have been reported. These electrical issues understandably impair hybrid system function.

Lexus ES 350

Owners of the gas-powered ES 350 luxury sedan have logged concerns around oil leaks, acceleration problems, and infotainment system functionality.

Oil Leaks: Models from 2007-2016 in particular struggle with oil leaks stemming from a ruptured VVT-i oil line. This causes urgent low oil pressure warnings and potential engine failure.
Unintended Acceleration: Some 2015 ES 350s have exhibited unintended acceleration despite brake application, triggering minor accidents. The presumed culprit is an electronic throttle control defect.
Infotainment Issues: Infotainment systems in early models (2008-2010) and 2014 examples commonly malfunction, with problems like navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and radio failure. Most cases are resolved through a software upgrade.

Lexus GS 350

This midsize sports sedan touts responsive handling and a refined ride. Its Achilles heels relate mostly to oil deficiencies, cooling system leaks, and fuel delivery inconsistencies.

Excessive Oil Consumption: All GS 350 model years may burn through oil faster than expected, increasing the risk of engine wear or misfires due to low supply reaching vital components.
Water Pump and Timing Chain Failures: When the water pump malfunctions, it can trigger overheating. Timing chain issues lead to ignition and combustion problems, which may prevent starting altogether.
Fuel Injector Problems: Clogged or dysfunctional fuel injectors starvation the injection system, dragging down engine efficiency and power delivery. This item tends to crop up without much warning.

Lexus GS 450h

This GS hybrid pairs smooth, sufficient power with thrifty fuel usage. Nonetheless, a few vulnerable areas like the hybrid battery, braking system, and transmission regularly pose problems.

Hybrid Battery Degradation: Various hybrid components work in concert to conserve fuel. But the battery in particular wears down faster than desired in model years 2012-2015, hurting efficiency.
Brake Actuator Failures: The brake actuator adjusts hydraulic pressure and braking capacity. When it fails on the GS 450h, stopping performance suffers noticeably between a spongy pedal feel and longer stopping distances.
Transmission Issues: Insufficient transmission fluid levels, fluid leaks, or hardware failures within the transmission itself can lead to incorrect gear shifts, warning lights, and operational concerns impairing this hybrid’s drivability.

Lexus GX 460

This luxury SUV delivers a smooth ride with impressive off-road talents. But several issues around fuel delivery, safety restraint programming, and handling have required fixes via recalls and service campaigns over the years.

Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Problems: Model years 2014-2015 were subject to a recall for fuel pump issues causing ignition problems, stalling, and poor drivability. These components can fail without warning.
Airbag System Defects: From 2010-2017, frontal airbag inflators could malfunction during deployment, potentially spraying metal fragments through the cabin. This safety issue prompted recalls once root causes were identified.
Stability Control System Defects: The GX 460’s stability program maintains composure in turns, especially on low-traction surfaces. But inconsistencies here can significantly impact steering and handling confidence.

The skilled technicians at M & R Auto have the Lexus-specific expertise to accurately diagnose issues with these vehicles and take appropriate corrective action tailored each model’s vulnerabilities. Don’t hesitate to contact us regarding service or repair inquiries relating to your Lexus luxury vehicle. Our priority is keeping you safely on the road.