So, you’re thinking about buying a sixth-generation Lexus ES 350 (2012-2018) in Nigeria? You’re probably seeing price tags between ₦22 and ₦25 million. But hold on, that’s not the whole story! The initial purchase is just the beginning. Owning a car comes with ongoing expenses, and today, we’re diving deep into the real cost of keeping this beauty on the road in Nigeria. We’re talking spare parts, maintenance, and those unexpected issues that pop up.
This post is based on a detailed video review. If you prefer watching to reading, check out this Lexus ES350 True Cost video on our YouTube channel. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what it really costs to own a Lexus ES 350 in Nigeria.
The Price of Looking Good: Exterior Costs
Let’s start with the parts that everyone sees first: the exterior. From the front grille to the taillights, we’ll break down the average costs of replacing these components. Keep in mind, prices can vary based on the source and condition of the parts.
Up Front: Grille, Chrome, and Headlights
The front of your Lexus makes a statement. Here’s what you can expect to pay for some key components:
- Grille: Around ₦50,000.
- Grille Chrome Surround: Expect to pay about ₦90,000. A word of caution: these chrome pieces can be tempting targets for thieves, especially if you park your car outside.
- Headlights: A pair will set you back approximately ₦250,000. If you’re aiming for the facelifted look, those headlights cost around ₦350,000 for a pair.
Level Up: Upgrading to the 2015 “L Finity” Look
Some folks want to give their ES 350 a more modern appearance, specifically the 2015 “L Finity” style. What’s involved?
You’ll need to replace a few key parts:
- Headlights
- Bumper
- Front Grille
The total damage? You’re looking at approximately ₦850,000 to pull off this upgrade. It’s interesting to note that some people skip this generation altogether when upgrading, jumping straight to the seventh generation Lexus.
Seeing Clearly: The Side Mirrors
Side mirrors on the Lexus ES 350 aren’t cheap. Expect to pay around ₦300,000 per side mirror. Why so much? It’s because they have an automatic folding feature. This convenience adds to the replacement cost.
Door Prices
Accidents happen, or maybe you’re considering a “salvage” car. Here’s a breakdown of door replacement costs:
- Front Doors: Approximately ₦250,000 each.
- Rear Doors: A bit less expensive, at around ₦200,000 each.
Remember that these prices typically reflect used or “salvage” parts.
What’s in the Trunk?
The trunk lid, or “boot,” will cost you around ₦200,000 to replace. But there’s a catch! That price doesn’t include the taillights.
Light It Up: Taillights
Speaking of taillights, a complete set of four (inner and outer lights) will set you back about ₦400,000. Anything happens to those tail lights, prepare for a significant expense.
Bumper Blues: Rear Bumper
The rear bumper will cost around ₦200,000.
Fueling the Fire: The Fuel Pump
The fuel pump, sometimes called the “F pump,” is an electric fuel pump and it’s a critical component. Replacing it can cost between ₦250,000 and ₦300,000.
Here’s a crucial point for Nigerian drivers: fuel quality can be an issue. Bad fuel can wreak havoc on your fuel pump. To protect your investment, consider using octane boosters to improve the quality of your petrol.
Under the Hood: Engine, Transmission, and More
Now, let’s peek under the hood and explore the costs associated with the mechanical heart of your Lexus ES 350.
ABS Pump
If you’re experiencing issues with your ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), the pump might be the culprit. Replacing it can range from ₦150,000 to ₦300,000. The price depends on where you source the part and whether you opt for a new or used unit. Keep in mind that ABS sensors can also cause problems.
Steering Rack
The steering rack is what allows you to steer the car. For an electric steering rack, you have a couple of options:
- Complete, New Steering Rack: Expect to pay around ₦600,000 for a brand-new unit.
- Rack Only (Used): If you’re on a tighter budget, you might find a used rack for between ₦150,000 and ₦200,000.
Engine and Transmission
These are the big-ticket items. If you need to replace the engine or transmission, here’s what you’re looking at:
- Engine: Around ₦1.3 million.
- Transmission: Approximately ₦1.2 million.
AC Compressor
Air conditioning is a must-have in Nigeria’s climate. Unfortunately, AC compressor issues are relatively common in this model. A replacement will cost you around ₦270,000. These cars have automatic AC compressors, and using the wrong type of refrigerant gas can lead to premature failure.
Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is an emissions control device. Many cars imported into Nigeria have had their catalytic converters removed. If you want to reinstall one, a genuine catalytic converter will cost you around ₦350,000.
Reliability
Despite the potential for expensive repairs, the sixth-generation Lexus ES 350 is generally considered a reliable car. Regular maintenance and timely servicing are key to keeping it running smoothly. One owner shared that in over four years of ownership, the only issue they encountered was a faulty O2 sensor.
Keeping It Running: Maintenance Costs
Preventative maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your Lexus ES 350. Let’s look at some common maintenance costs.
Oil Changes
Regular oil changes are essential for engine health.
- Synthetic Oil Change: Expect to pay around ₦90,000 for a synthetic oil change.
- Frequency: Every 5,000 kilometers.
Time vs. Mileage
Here’s a crucial point about oil changes: it’s not just about the mileage. Time also plays a significant role. Engine oil degrades over time, even if you don’t drive the car very much. The oil expires after 3-4 months, regardless of how many kilometers you’ve driven.
So, even if you only drive a few times within those 3-4 months, you still need to change the oil.
Synthetic Oil and Extended Intervals
If you use synthetic oil, you can extend the oil change interval to 10,000 miles. However, the 3-4 month rule still applies. If you reach the time limit before the mileage, change the oil!
Preventing Sludge
Regular oil changes prevent sludge buildup inside your engine. Sludge can cause serious damage and reduce the lifespan of your engine. So, don’t skip those oil changes!
Part Costs Overview
To give you a clearer picture, here’s a summary of the average costs we’ve discussed:
| Part | Estimated Cost (₦) |
| Grille | 50,000 |
| Headlights (Pair) | 250,000 |
| Side Mirror | 300,000 |
| Engine | 1,300,000 |
| Transmission | 1,200,000 |
| AC Compressor | 270,000 |
| Catalytic Converter | 350,000 |
| Synthetic Oil Change | 90,000 |
Disclaimer: These are average prices and may vary depending on the source and condition of the parts.
Common Issues and Solutions
While the Lexus ES 350 is generally reliable, here are a few common problems to be aware of:
AC Compressor Failure
As mentioned earlier, AC compressor failure is a known issue. Using the correct refrigerant gas can help prevent problems. Make sure your mechanic uses the manufacturer-recommended type.
Fuel Pump Problems
The fuel pump is vulnerable to bad fuel quality. Using octane boosters can help protect the fuel pump and ensure optimal performance.
O2 Sensor
In some cases the O2 (oxygen) sensor may need to be replaced.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to remember that the prices discussed in this blog are average estimates. The actual cost of parts and repairs can vary. Also, neither this blog nor the original video creator are parts sellers.
Have you owned a sixth-generation Lexus ES 350 in Nigeria? What has your experience been like? Are there any costs we didn’t mention? Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below!
Understanding the true cost of owning a car is essential for making informed decisions. The Lexus ES 350 (2012-2018) offers a blend of luxury and reliability, but it’s important to be aware of the potential maintenance and repair costs.
