Two problems related to engine exhaust system have been reported for the 1996 Lexus ES300. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Engine check light intermittently on, blue exhaust in engine smoke, abnormal oil consumption, gelled oil or sludge present inside valve cover below oil filler cap. Called Lexus America, brought car into dealer, they tell me I must pay $2,071. 06 for repairs and pretend not to know of this common 3. 0l v-6 engine problem that is extensively documented on the internet and that Lexus has already started reimbursing car owners starting with 1997 models.
"check engine" light illuminates intermittently, blue exhaust smoke on startup, excessive oil consumption, gelled oil or sludge present beneath oil filler cap on valve cover after going to Lexus the best they would offer was to eat the parts cost, about $500 but I would still have to pay $1500 for a head job that anyone else charges $950 for.