sherry97305

My '97 es300 has a slight lurching feeling when driving at speeds of 35mph to 45mph. I just had some engine work done, but they did not address this problem, as they said "They couldn't get it to do it". Could it be a problem with the transmission? It also lurches when I first put it in drive.

miles on car? miles on tranny fluid? Last changed? Have you reset the ECM then driven?

125,000. I just had it in for an engine oil leak. I'll find out about the tranny fluid. But, what is ECM?

My '97 es300 has a slight lurching feeling when driving at speeds of 35mph to 45mph. I just had some engine work done, but they did not address this problem, as they said "They couldn't get it to do it". Could it be a problem with the transmission? It also lurches when I first put it in drive.

The "check Engine Light" came on, the car was running so rough I thought I had a flat tire. Took it to garage, they changed the spark plugs. Now he runs a little rough, hesitates at around 40 mph. I took it back to the garage, they said they couldn't get it to do it. Could this be related to the sludge problem? 1997 125,000mi.

I am helping a friend purchase a used ES300. I have found one that originated in California. Does anyone here know if their emission controls affect mileage, or any other reasons not to buy a car coming out of California?

Check this out

http://auto.consumerguide.com/auto/used/re...dex.cfm/id/2271

the 99 and up models have a little more power the engine and transmission have been upgraded

2000 got some new styling like a chrome grill and new fog lamps and tail lamps

That is why at the time, I got my 2001 ES. ;)

???? Consumer Guide rates the '02 as a "Best Buy". Were you going for the hp? Personally, I'd rather have the updated body style. My '02 is a great car. I got it after I totalled my Bonneville :cries: .

Sherry, don't let the complaining scare you. All cars have problems, IMO. Just do your research on what they are and try to avoid the vehicles that seem to exhibit those traits. I tried enough 02s and 03s to feel the difference in hesitation on some of them. You can have a good mechanic inspect the vehicle before you finalize the deal.

Thanks for the info, but it's been determined that they can repair the car. I pick it up on the 23rd. So, will see if it's going to be OK or not.

I'd have to agree about the power difference from 98 to 99. I can't tell a difference whatsoever. My aunt has a 2000, and it seems the same to me. One plus for the 98 over the 97 is standard side airbags on the 98. I just had the valve cover gaskets replaced on my 98, and at ~ 140k miles, the engine still looks new on the inside, absolutely NO signs of sludge.

Is there a site like this for the 2002-2006?

Is there a site that would describe the year by year changes in the ES300. I loved my '97, and would buy another one, but would like to consider moving up a few years. After reading some forums, I'm afraid to buy anything 2002 or newer. Any advise?