A "dead pedal" or delayed throttle response on a 2020 RX350 can be frustrating because some lag is normal with Lexus' throttle mapping, but what you're describing sounds more pronounced than the typical hesitation owners notice in Eco or Normal mode. I'd suggest the following troubleshooting approach: First, verify whether the issue is truly engine/throttle related or transmission related. When you press the accelerator into the "dead" zone, watch the tachometer: If RPM immediately rises but acceleration doesn't follow, look toward the transmission. If RPM doesn't respond right away, focus on the throttle control system. Check for stored codes, even if the check engine light isn't on. A scan tool that can read Lexus/Toyota enhanced data is much more useful than a basic code reader. Monitor the accelerator pedal position (APP) and throttle position (TP) data with a scan tool. The pedal assembly contains redundant sensors, and glitches can cause erratic response without immediately setting a fault code. Inspect the throttle body for carbon buildup. A dirty electronic throttle body can contribute to inconsistent throttle response and hesitation, especially at small pedal inputs. Verify that the vehicle doesn't have an aftermarket throttle controller, pedal commander, tune, or other add-on from a previous owner. Since you bought it used, it's worth checking under the dash near the accelerator pedal connector. Reset any learned driving adaptations. Disconnecting the battery for a period or having the dealer perform an ECU reset can sometimes help if the previous owner's driving habits significantly affected transmission adaptation. Compare behavior in Eco, Normal, Sport, and Sport S modes. If the dead zone is dramatically reduced in Sport mode, the issue may be more related to Lexus' programmed throttle mapping than a mechanical fault. Check for powertrain software updates. A Lexus dealer can determine whether the ECM or transmission control calibration is current. Does the hesitation occur from a stop, at highway speeds, or both? That answer can narrow the diagnosis considerably.

If you've saved John's address in the navigation Address Book, the system may allow voice navigation to that saved entry, but the exact command depends on your ES350's navigation software version. Try pressing the voice button and saying "Destination" or "Navigate to John" and see if the saved location appears. Some Lexus systems are limited and may require selecting the Address Book entry on the screen rather than accepting a custom name like "Go to John's."

A common complaint on the RX350 Premium models is that the base Lexus audio system is tuned more for a smooth, non-fatiguing sound than for the crisp, detailed sound you may be used to from a Bose or Burmester system. A few things to keep in mind: The standard Lexus audio system is a significant step below the optional Mark Levinson system in clarity, imaging, and overall power. Many owners find the factory EQ settings overly conservative. If you haven't already, try reducing bass slightly, increasing treble a few notches, and moving the fade setting slightly toward the rear to see if that improves vocal clarity. Audio source quality matters. Bluetooth-compressed audio can sound noticeably less detailed than high-bitrate streaming, wired CarPlay, or lossless sources. Some owners report that the speakers loosen up somewhat after a few thousand miles, although the improvement is usually subtle rather than dramatic. If you've already experimented with all the settings and still find the system muffled, it's likely just the character of the base audio system rather than a defect. Coming from a Chevrolet Tahoe with Bose or a Mercedes equipped with Burmester, it's understandable to be disappointed. The Mark Levinson-equipped RX is generally regarded as a substantial upgrade and is what many buyers expect in a luxury vehicle at this price point. One thing worth checking: play several different sources (FM radio, SiriusXM, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) at the same volume. If they all sound equally muffled, that's probably the system's tuning. If only one source sounds poor, the issue may be the audio source rather than the speakers.

The sound system sounds so muffled. Not as good as my Tahoe Bose speakers or Mercedes Burmister. Tried all the adjustments. Still not very clear for a luxury car.

I am considering purchasing a 2007 Lexus ES350. The car is a One Owner and has only 84K miles on it. Dealership asking $11K out the door including taxes and fees. All major services performed by Lexus. Two major items: 60K miles Engine oil cooler line(s) repaired/replaced Antifreeze/coolant flushed/changed Water pump gasket replaced Water pump replaced Should I be concerned with known issues of Timing Cover Leaks & Valve Gaskets and transmission shifts? Is $11K out the door good price or what in your opinion would be a good offer out the door. Thanks