Lexus LS-400 / LS-430 Problems & Failures

On Thu, 29 Mar 2007 17:15:38 -0700, "Jebediah Kornworthy"

Post by Jebediah Kornworthy
I would like to buy a used Lexus LS-400 or a Lexus LS-430 in the next year
or two perhaps (depending on my health.) I feel that they are a very well
built car and I'm sure many of you feel the same way.
I have been looking at many web sites and forums to find any and all known
and reoccurring problems with the car. Any helpful input would be greatly
appreciated.
I have read that certain years had major problems with the air ride
suspension and many people had it converted to a regular suspension.
Problems were reported and fairly common with the instrument cluster circuit
board failure in some years. I've read more than one post on different
sites where the gauges work intermittently or not at all when it's cold and
then start working again when it warms up inside the car.
I've also read that the power steering pump can fail causing the alternator
fail also. I have never heard of or read of any major engine or
transmission failures but it doesn't mean that they don't exist.
I know that no car is going to be perfect, and as a former Maintenance
Mechanic, I understand the complexities of machinery. I know that any car
will require regular service and maintenance. I also know that any car
part can fail for a variety of reasons. I'm looking for patterns of failure
on certain parts for different years.
I'm trying not to be nit picking. I'm just trying to decide what year or
years to stay away from that may have had some well-known and costly repair
problems. And I know that the newer the car is, the less likely it will be
to have major problems. I can't afford a new Lexus LS 460 unfortunately.
Obviously the older the car is the cheaper it will be to buy it outright but
it may be wiser to choose a different year of car that has less known
problems.
Is what I have read true? Do any of you agree that these are common
problems or just a fluke? I've read many posts on these problems but that
doesn't necessarily paint a true picture of known car problems when we are
taking about hundreds of thousands of units of cars built. So what do you
think? Is this true? Is it as commonplace as it appears?
I like the 2000 Lexus LS 4000 and the 2001Lexus LS 430
I don't want to sound unappreciative, but I'm hoping we can stay on topic
with this thread. I don't like it when it turns into a flame war.
Thanks in advance for your input, suggestions and opinions.

Obviously, the newer the car, the less problems you'll find with them.

Having said that, it might help to know what target price range are
you looking at? $5,000? $30,000? That'll help us determine what
years (or even models) to consider.

Personally, I currently own a 94 GS300, a 2000 ES300 and a 2002 LS430.

The 94 is a GREAT car, the 00 ES300 is a GREAT car and the LS
is an AWESOME car but if I were to have the same money I spent
on the LS all over again, I would have to VERY seriously consider
the 2007 ES350. It handles better, gets better mpg, has about the
same ride quality and it's slightly smaller so it's easier to park.

And it's lighter so it has a lot more pep.

Jebediah Kornworthy

2007-03-30 02:08:20 UTC

Post by Max
On Thu, 29 Mar 2007 17:15:38 -0700, "Jebediah Kornworthy"

Obviously, the newer the car, the less problems you'll find with them.
Having said that, it might help to know what target price range are
you looking at? $5,000? $30,000? That'll help us determine what
years (or even models) to consider.
Personally, I currently own a 94 GS300, a 2000 ES300 and a 2002 LS430.
The 94 is a GREAT car, the 00 ES300 is a GREAT car and the LS
is an AWESOME car but if I were to have the same money I spent
on the LS all over again, I would have to VERY seriously consider
the 2007 ES350. It handles better, gets better mpg, has about the
same ride quality and it's slightly smaller so it's easier to park.
And it's lighter so it has a lot more pep.

Max,

Yes I agree with you about the age of the vehicle and I even wrote so in my
original post.

I didn't write about a target price range because I was thinking about all
years. Maybe in the 20-25k-price range. But what if I found an Old Lexus
LS 400 creampuff with low mileage and garage kept? If I could find
something like this for 5 or 8 thousand I would think about it, unless I
knew that they were prone to expensive and known failures. Naturally I'd
like to get the best deal, so I am not opposed to getting an older well
cared for car, if their isn't major problems with the first few years of car
(1990 to 1995.) Oh yeah, one more thing. I like the larger car, it would
suite my needs better.

Thanks,

Jeb

Ray O

2007-03-30 04:37:58 UTC

Post by Jebediah Kornworthy
I would like to buy a used Lexus LS-400 or a Lexus LS-430 in the next year
or two perhaps (depending on my health.) I feel that they are a very well
built car and I'm sure many of you feel the same way.
I have been looking at many web sites and forums to find any and all known
and reoccurring problems with the car. Any helpful input would be greatly
appreciated.
I have read that certain years had major problems with the air ride
suspension and many people had it converted to a regular suspension.
Problems were reported and fairly common with the instrument cluster
circuit board failure in some years. I've read more than one post on
different sites where the gauges work intermittently or not at all when
it's cold and then start working again when it warms up inside the car.
I've also read that the power steering pump can fail causing the
alternator fail also. I have never heard of or read of any major engine
or transmission failures but it doesn't mean that they don't exist.
I know that no car is going to be perfect, and as a former Maintenance
Mechanic, I understand the complexities of machinery. I know that any
car will require regular service and maintenance. I also know that any
car part can fail for a variety of reasons. I'm looking for patterns of
failure on certain parts for different years.
I'm trying not to be nit picking. I'm just trying to decide what year or
years to stay away from that may have had some well-known and costly
repair problems. And I know that the newer the car is, the less likely it
will be to have major problems. I can't afford a new Lexus LS 460
unfortunately. Obviously the older the car is the cheaper it will be to
buy it outright but it may be wiser to choose a different year of car that
has less known problems.
Is what I have read true? Do any of you agree that these are common
problems or just a fluke? I've read many posts on these problems but that
doesn't necessarily paint a true picture of known car problems when we are
taking about hundreds of thousands of units of cars built. So what do you
think? Is this true? Is it as commonplace as it appears?
I like the 2000 Lexus LS 4000 and the 2001Lexus LS 430
I don't want to sound unappreciative, but I'm hoping we can stay on topic
with this thread. I don't like it when it turns into a flame war.
Thanks in advance for your input, suggestions and opinions.

Your research pretty much covers typical problems with the LS. The optronic
displays seem to be a little more durable now. Look for one without the air
suspension and you should be good to go.

Happy motoring!

--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Jebediah Kornworthy

2007-03-30 05:08:35 UTC

Post by Jebediah Kornworthy
I would like to buy a used Lexus LS-400 or a Lexus LS-430 in the next year
or two perhaps (depending on my health.) I feel that they are a very well
built car and I'm sure many of you feel the same way.
I have been looking at many web sites and forums to find any and all
known and reoccurring problems with the car. Any helpful input would be
greatly appreciated.
I have read that certain years had major problems with the air ride
suspension and many people had it converted to a regular suspension.
Problems were reported and fairly common with the instrument cluster
circuit board failure in some years. I've read more than one post on
different sites where the gauges work intermittently or not at all when
it's cold and then start working again when it warms up inside the car.
I've also read that the power steering pump can fail causing the
alternator fail also. I have never heard of or read of any major engine
or transmission failures but it doesn't mean that they don't exist.
I know that no car is going to be perfect, and as a former Maintenance
Mechanic, I understand the complexities of machinery. I know that any
car will require regular service and maintenance. I also know that any
car part can fail for a variety of reasons. I'm looking for patterns of
failure on certain parts for different years.
I'm trying not to be nit picking. I'm just trying to decide what year or
years to stay away from that may have had some well-known and costly
repair problems. And I know that the newer the car is, the less likely
it will be to have major problems. I can't afford a new Lexus LS 460
unfortunately. Obviously the older the car is the cheaper it will be to
buy it outright but it may be wiser to choose a different year of car
that has less known problems.
Is what I have read true? Do any of you agree that these are common
problems or just a fluke? I've read many posts on these problems but
that doesn't necessarily paint a true picture of known car problems when
we are taking about hundreds of thousands of units of cars built. So
what do you think? Is this true? Is it as commonplace as it appears?
I like the 2000 Lexus LS 4000 and the 2001Lexus LS 430
I don't want to sound unappreciative, but I'm hoping we can stay on topic
with this thread. I don't like it when it turns into a flame war.
Thanks in advance for your input, suggestions and opinions.

Your research pretty much covers typical problems with the LS. The
optronic displays seem to be a little more durable now. Look for one
without the air suspension and you should be good to go.
Happy motoring!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Hello Ray O,

Or is it just Ray? Anyway I have seen many posts
by you and I'm always impressed by your replays. You obviously know what
you're talking about. If you don't mind me asking, what is your background
and how did you become so acquainted with the Lexus? It seems like you are
an engineer or mechanic who has in-depth knowledge of the cars. Either way,
you're always right with your answers because I always double check to make
sure that the information I am getting is correct.

I always try to get my answers before bothering
people with the answers that are easily available. Honestly I don't have a
clue what the optronic displays are. Are they what one would call the
instrument cluster or gauges?

Many thanks Ray for all the help you have given others and me. I try to get
my information in all other places before asking for help. I only ask
questions in user groups when I am stumped.

Thanks,

Jeb

Ray O

2007-03-30 06:30:54 UTC

Post by Jebediah Kornworthy
I would like to buy a used Lexus LS-400 or a Lexus LS-430 in the next
year or two perhaps (depending on my health.) I feel that they are a
very well built car and I'm sure many of you feel the same way.
I have been looking at many web sites and forums to find any and all
known and reoccurring problems with the car. Any helpful input would be
greatly appreciated.
I have read that certain years had major problems with the air ride
suspension and many people had it converted to a regular suspension.
Problems were reported and fairly common with the instrument cluster
circuit board failure in some years. I've read more than one post on
different sites where the gauges work intermittently or not at all when
it's cold and then start working again when it warms up inside the car.
I've also read that the power steering pump can fail causing the
alternator fail also. I have never heard of or read of any major engine
or transmission failures but it doesn't mean that they don't exist.
I know that no car is going to be perfect, and as a former Maintenance
Mechanic, I understand the complexities of machinery. I know that any
car will require regular service and maintenance. I also know that any
car part can fail for a variety of reasons. I'm looking for patterns of
failure on certain parts for different years.
I'm trying not to be nit picking. I'm just trying to decide what year
or years to stay away from that may have had some well-known and costly
repair problems. And I know that the newer the car is, the less likely
it will be to have major problems. I can't afford a new Lexus LS 460
unfortunately. Obviously the older the car is the cheaper it will be to
buy it outright but it may be wiser to choose a different year of car
that has less known problems.
Is what I have read true? Do any of you agree that these are common
problems or just a fluke? I've read many posts on these problems but
that doesn't necessarily paint a true picture of known car problems when
we are taking about hundreds of thousands of units of cars built. So
what do you think? Is this true? Is it as commonplace as it appears?
I like the 2000 Lexus LS 4000 and the 2001Lexus LS 430
I don't want to sound unappreciative, but I'm hoping we can stay on
topic with this thread. I don't like it when it turns into a flame war.
Thanks in advance for your input, suggestions and opinions.

Your research pretty much covers typical problems with the LS. The
optronic displays seem to be a little more durable now. Look for one
without the air suspension and you should be good to go.
Happy motoring!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Hello Ray O,
Or is it just Ray? Anyway I have seen many posts
by you and I'm always impressed by your replays. You obviously know what
you're talking about. If you don't mind me asking, what is your
background and how did you become so acquainted with the Lexus? It seems
like you are an engineer or mechanic who has in-depth knowledge of the
cars. Either way, you're always right with your answers because I always
double check to make sure that the information I am getting is correct.
I always try to get my answers before bothering
people with the answers that are easily available. Honestly I don't have
a clue what the optronic displays are. Are they what one would call the
instrument cluster or gauges?
Many thanks Ray for all the help you have given others and me. I try to
get my information in all other places before asking for help. I only ask
questions in user groups when I am stumped.
Thanks,
Jeb

Just "Ray" works ;-)

I am not an engineer or mechanic, although I have always had an interest in
cars. I remember watching my dad work on cars on weekends and have tinkered
with them well before I had a driver's license. After college, I worked at
Toyota's San Francisco and Boston regional offices for about 15 years.
Among my jobs was calling on dealers and helping them fix problem cars.

I remember all of the discussion and talk when the Lexus division was
formed, and was fortunate to drive and LS prototype before they were
introduced in the U.S. A Lexus is technically the same as a Toyota and
there are more mechanical, electronic, and operational similarities than
there are differences.

I have let my ASE Master and Toyota Master tech certifications expire, but
the principles behind cars are basically the same now as they were when
Toyota introduced fuel injection in the 1979-1/2 Supra and Cressida.

I think you will enjoy the LS, I know I do! My biggest complaint is that I
no longer get a new car every 3 or 4 months, and I have to pay for them!

--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Jebediah Kornworthy

2007-03-30 09:06:13 UTC

Post by Jebediah Kornworthy
I would like to buy a used Lexus LS-400 or a Lexus LS-430 in the next
year or two perhaps (depending on my health.) I feel that they are a
very well built car and I'm sure many of you feel the same way.
I have been looking at many web sites and forums to find any and all
known and reoccurring problems with the car. Any helpful input would
be greatly appreciated.
I have read that certain years had major problems with the air ride
suspension and many people had it converted to a regular suspension.
Problems were reported and fairly common with the instrument cluster
circuit board failure in some years. I've read more than one post on
different sites where the gauges work intermittently or not at all when
it's cold and then start working again when it warms up inside the car.
I've also read that the power steering pump can fail causing the
alternator fail also. I have never heard of or read of any major
engine or transmission failures but it doesn't mean that they don't
exist.
I know that no car is going to be perfect, and as a former Maintenance
Mechanic, I understand the complexities of machinery. I know that any
car will require regular service and maintenance. I also know that
any car part can fail for a variety of reasons. I'm looking for
patterns of failure on certain parts for different years.
I'm trying not to be nit picking. I'm just trying to decide what year
or years to stay away from that may have had some well-known and costly
repair problems. And I know that the newer the car is, the less likely
it will be to have major problems. I can't afford a new Lexus LS 460
unfortunately. Obviously the older the car is the cheaper it will be to
buy it outright but it may be wiser to choose a different year of car
that has less known problems.
Is what I have read true? Do any of you agree that these are common
problems or just a fluke? I've read many posts on these problems but
that doesn't necessarily paint a true picture of known car problems
when we are taking about hundreds of thousands of units of cars built.
So what do you think? Is this true? Is it as commonplace as it
appears?
I like the 2000 Lexus LS 4000 and the 2001Lexus LS 430
I don't want to sound unappreciative, but I'm hoping we can stay on
topic with this thread. I don't like it when it turns into a flame war.
Thanks in advance for your input, suggestions and opinions.

Your research pretty much covers typical problems with the LS. The
optronic displays seem to be a little more durable now. Look for one
without the air suspension and you should be good to go.
Happy motoring!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Hello Ray O,
Or is it just Ray? Anyway I have seen many posts
by you and I'm always impressed by your replays. You obviously know
what you're talking about. If you don't mind me asking, what is your
background and how did you become so acquainted with the Lexus? It seems
like you are an engineer or mechanic who has in-depth knowledge of the
cars. Either way, you're always right with your answers because I always
double check to make sure that the information I am getting is correct.
I always try to get my answers before bothering
people with the answers that are easily available. Honestly I don't have
a clue what the optronic displays are. Are they what one would call the
instrument cluster or gauges?
Many thanks Ray for all the help you have given others and me. I try to
get my information in all other places before asking for help. I only
ask questions in user groups when I am stumped.
Thanks,
Jeb

Just "Ray" works ;-)
I am not an engineer or mechanic, although I have always had an interest
in cars. I remember watching my dad work on cars on weekends and have
tinkered with them well before I had a driver's license. After college, I
worked at Toyota's San Francisco and Boston regional offices for about 15
years. Among my jobs was calling on dealers and helping them fix problem
cars.
I remember all of the discussion and talk when the Lexus division was
formed, and was fortunate to drive and LS prototype before they were
introduced in the U.S. A Lexus is technically the same as a Toyota and
there are more mechanical, electronic, and operational similarities than
there are differences.
I have let my ASE Master and Toyota Master tech certifications expire, but
the principles behind cars are basically the same now as they were when
Toyota introduced fuel injection in the 1979-1/2 Supra and Cressida.
I think you will enjoy the LS, I know I do! My biggest complaint is that
I no longer get a new car every 3 or 4 months, and I have to pay for them!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Ray,

I think you're being modest here (which works for me.) You know
the car very well.

Like I said in the earlier thread, I'm just wondering if I
bought an older "creampuff" if I'd encounter any real problems other than
what I mentioned? I know I have to look out for the early air suspensions.
Do they still use air suspensions and if they do are they dependable? What
if I got an old car that was "Cheery Pie" and always dealer serviced and
garaged kept, do you think even an old one would be ok? I'm talking 1990 to
1995 here. I am having some heath problems and I don't know how much money
I can afford in the next year. I'd like to buy a newer car but I may not be
able to do it at that time. I have already looked at small shops that
specialize in Lexus and have even looked into what the Better Business
Bureau said about them, so I think that I have some good references in
Southern California for dependable repair shops. Maybe I'd be ok getting an
older car. And yes I've even looked into reputable (I think) companies that
repair the older instrument clusters. Here is one:

http://www.bba-reman.com/catalogue/DetailedProduct.aspx?DetailedProduct=394

This isn't my first choice but I don't know how well I'll be doing in the
next year and even a new car (whatever brand) is more expensive than what I'm
looking at. After ten years, I think that I've let the resale value of the
car depreciate enough for me. Oh yeah, I'm not afraid to put some money
into an older car that has some promise. I've always serviced my own cars
and have done very well but I may not be able to that in the near future.
Sorry for talking your ears off.

Sorry about not getting that new car every 3 or 4 months. I wish I had that
same problem.

Jeb/AKA Dennis in Anaheim

Ray O

2007-03-30 15:57:13 UTC

Post by Jebediah Kornworthy
I would like to buy a used Lexus LS-400 or a Lexus LS-430 in the next
year or two perhaps (depending on my health.) I feel that they are a
very well built car and I'm sure many of you feel the same way.
I have been looking at many web sites and forums to find any and all
known and reoccurring problems with the car. Any helpful input would
be greatly appreciated.
I have read that certain years had major problems with the air ride
suspension and many people had it converted to a regular suspension.
Problems were reported and fairly common with the instrument cluster
circuit board failure in some years. I've read more than one post on
different sites where the gauges work intermittently or not at all
when it's cold and then start working again when it warms up inside
the car.
I've also read that the power steering pump can fail causing the
alternator fail also. I have never heard of or read of any major
engine or transmission failures but it doesn't mean that they don't
exist.
I know that no car is going to be perfect, and as a former Maintenance
Mechanic, I understand the complexities of machinery. I know that
any car will require regular service and maintenance. I also know
that any car part can fail for a variety of reasons. I'm looking for
patterns of failure on certain parts for different years.
I'm trying not to be nit picking. I'm just trying to decide what year
or years to stay away from that may have had some well-known and
costly repair problems. And I know that the newer the car is, the
less likely it will be to have major problems. I can't afford a new
Lexus LS 460 unfortunately. Obviously the older the car is the cheaper
it will be to buy it outright but it may be wiser to choose a
different year of car that has less known problems.
Is what I have read true? Do any of you agree that these are common
problems or just a fluke? I've read many posts on these problems but
that doesn't necessarily paint a true picture of known car problems
when we are taking about hundreds of thousands of units of cars built.
So what do you think? Is this true? Is it as commonplace as it
appears?
I like the 2000 Lexus LS 4000 and the 2001Lexus LS 430
I don't want to sound unappreciative, but I'm hoping we can stay on
topic with this thread. I don't like it when it turns into a flame war.
Thanks in advance for your input, suggestions and opinions.

Your research pretty much covers typical problems with the LS. The
optronic displays seem to be a little more durable now. Look for one
without the air suspension and you should be good to go.
Happy motoring!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Hello Ray O,
Or is it just Ray? Anyway I have seen many
posts by you and I'm always impressed by your replays. You obviously
know what you're talking about. If you don't mind me asking, what is
your background and how did you become so acquainted with the Lexus? It
seems like you are an engineer or mechanic who has in-depth knowledge of
the cars. Either way, you're always right with your answers because I
always double check to make sure that the information I am getting is
correct.
I always try to get my answers before bothering
people with the answers that are easily available. Honestly I don't
have a clue what the optronic displays are. Are they what one would
call the instrument cluster or gauges?
Many thanks Ray for all the help you have given others and me. I try to
get my information in all other places before asking for help. I only
ask questions in user groups when I am stumped.
Thanks,
Jeb

Just "Ray" works ;-)
I am not an engineer or mechanic, although I have always had an interest
in cars. I remember watching my dad work on cars on weekends and have
tinkered with them well before I had a driver's license. After college,
I worked at Toyota's San Francisco and Boston regional offices for about
15 years. Among my jobs was calling on dealers and helping them fix
problem cars.
I remember all of the discussion and talk when the Lexus division was
formed, and was fortunate to drive and LS prototype before they were
introduced in the U.S. A Lexus is technically the same as a Toyota and
there are more mechanical, electronic, and operational similarities than
there are differences.
I have let my ASE Master and Toyota Master tech certifications expire,
but the principles behind cars are basically the same now as they were
when Toyota introduced fuel injection in the 1979-1/2 Supra and Cressida.
I think you will enjoy the LS, I know I do! My biggest complaint is that
I no longer get a new car every 3 or 4 months, and I have to pay for them!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Ray,
I think you're being modest here (which works for me.) You know
the car very well.
Like I said in the earlier thread, I'm just wondering if I
bought an older "creampuff" if I'd encounter any real problems other than
what I mentioned? I know I have to look out for the early air
suspensions. Do they still use air suspensions and if they do are they
dependable? What if I got an old car that was "Cheery Pie" and always
dealer serviced and garaged kept, do you think even an old one would be
ok? I'm talking 1990 to 1995 here. I am having some heath problems and I
don't know how much money I can afford in the next year. I'd like to buy
a newer car but I may not be able to do it at that time. I have already
looked at small shops that specialize in Lexus and have even looked into
what the Better Business Bureau said about them, so I think that I have
some good references in Southern California for dependable repair shops.
Maybe I'd be ok getting an older car. And yes I've even looked into
reputable (I think) companies that repair the older instrument clusters.
http://www.bba-reman.com/catalogue/DetailedProduct.aspx?DetailedProduct=394
This isn't my first choice but I don't know how well I'll be doing in the
next year and even a new car (whatever brand) is more expensive than what
I'm looking at. After ten years, I think that I've let the resale value
of the car depreciate enough for me. Oh yeah, I'm not afraid to put some
money into an older car that has some promise. I've always serviced my
own cars and have done very well but I may not be able to that in the near
future. Sorry for talking your ears off.
Sorry about not getting that new car every 3 or 4 months. I wish I had
that same problem.
Jeb/AKA Dennis in Anaheim

The problem with a 1990 to 1995 car is that it will be between 12 and 17
years old. At that age, especially in Southern California, rubber and
plastic parts will begin to deteriorate, so there will be more of a tendency
for seals, gaskets, and hoses in the transmission, engine, suspension, and
body to crack, crumble, and leak or make noise. Also, although the useable
life of automatic transmissions have increased greatly, they still have a
finite lifetime, so I would be nervous about an automatic transmission with
over 200,000 miles.

As someone else mentioned, you may wish to consider an ES, but only if the
owner has meticulously changed the oil, or a GS, which is rear wheel drive.
I would try not to purchase a car over 10 years old so that your chances of
owning it for a longer time without problems are improved.

One problem that you did not mention above that I ran into with my 2000 LS
400 is that the starter failed. Normally, I would just change it myself but
it is located in the valley between the cylinder banks, underneath the
intake manifold, and it failed in the dead of winter in the Midwest so I let
the local Lexus dealer change it, which set me back $1,000. The air
suspension on the 2000 was beginning to sag when parked overnight, but the
on-board compressor had no problem bringing it back up when the engine was
running.

My 2001 LS has the dynamic laser cruise control, and an errant rock broke
the lens so I am currently without cruise control. I suspect that will be
another $500 to $1,000 repair, although I have not had it priced yet. Of
course, that would not be a problem with the conventional cruise control.

Stay healthy!

--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Jerohm

2007-03-30 16:39:15 UTC

Post by Ray O
The problem with a 1990 to 1995 car is that it will be between 12 and 17
years old. At that age, especially in Southern California, rubber and
plastic parts will begin to deteriorate, so there will be more of a
tendency for seals, gaskets, and hoses in the transmission, engine,
suspension, and body to crack, crumble, and leak or make noise. Also,
although the useable life of automatic transmissions have increased
greatly, they still have a finite lifetime, so I would be nervous about an
automatic transmission with over 200,000 miles.
As someone else mentioned, you may wish to consider an ES, but only if the
owner has meticulously changed the oil, or a GS, which is rear wheel
drive. I would try not to purchase a car over 10 years old so that your
chances of owning it for a longer time without problems are improved.
One problem that you did not mention above that I ran into with my 2000 LS
400 is that the starter failed. Normally, I would just change it myself
but it is located in the valley between the cylinder banks, underneath the
intake manifold, and it failed in the dead of winter in the Midwest so I
let the local Lexus dealer change it, which set me back $1,000. The air
suspension on the 2000 was beginning to sag when parked overnight, but the
on-board compressor had no problem bringing it back up when the engine was
running.
My 2001 LS has the dynamic laser cruise control, and an errant rock broke
the lens so I am currently without cruise control. I suspect that will be
another $500 to $1,000 repair, although I have not had it priced yet. Of
course, that would not be a problem with the conventional cruise control.
Stay healthy!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Although it is hard to disagree about rubber/plastic deterioration, I have
been told over and over again, that the First Generation LS400 is one of the
top 5 most reliable cars ever built (not necessarily the BEST, only the most
reliable - it is NOT without faults ). My 1990 has 214K and except for some
pretty crappy city mileage, it's still very strong (Highway 24/mpg). Their
resale selling price is nothing less than a bargain to potential buyers (IF
THEY HAVE BEEN PROPERLY CARED FOR). They need to be maintained, but I have
never been left without transportation. I spend about $1K/year now on
(preventative) maintenanience, whether it needs it or not.

Jebediah Kornworthy

2007-03-30 19:58:55 UTC

Post by Jerohm

Post by Ray O
The problem with a 1990 to 1995 car is that it will be between 12 and 17
years old. At that age, especially in Southern California, rubber and
plastic parts will begin to deteriorate, so there will be more of a
tendency for seals, gaskets, and hoses in the transmission, engine,
suspension, and body to crack, crumble, and leak or make noise. Also,
although the useable life of automatic transmissions have increased
greatly, they still have a finite lifetime, so I would be nervous about
an automatic transmission with over 200,000 miles.
As someone else mentioned, you may wish to consider an ES, but only if
the owner has meticulously changed the oil, or a GS, which is rear wheel
drive. I would try not to purchase a car over 10 years old so that your
chances of owning it for a longer time without problems are improved.
One problem that you did not mention above that I ran into with my 2000
LS 400 is that the starter failed. Normally, I would just change it
myself but it is located in the valley between the cylinder banks,
underneath the intake manifold, and it failed in the dead of winter in
the Midwest so I let the local Lexus dealer change it, which set me back
$1,000. The air suspension on the 2000 was beginning to sag when parked
overnight, but the on-board compressor had no problem bringing it back up
when the engine was running.
My 2001 LS has the dynamic laser cruise control, and an errant rock broke
the lens so I am currently without cruise control. I suspect that will
be another $500 to $1,000 repair, although I have not had it priced yet.
Of course, that would not be a problem with the conventional cruise
control.
Stay healthy!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Although it is hard to disagree about rubber/plastic deterioration, I have
been told over and over again, that the First Generation LS400 is one of
the top 5 most reliable cars ever built (not necessarily the BEST, only
the most reliable - it is NOT without faults ). My 1990 has 214K and
except for some pretty crappy city mileage, it's still very strong
(Highway 24/mpg). Their resale selling price is nothing less than a
bargain to potential buyers (IF THEY HAVE BEEN PROPERLY CARED FOR). They
need to be maintained, but I have never been left without transportation.
I spend about $1K/year now on (preventative) maintenanience, whether it
needs it or not.

Jerohm,

If a car is parked in the garage for most of it's life then the
plastic problem isn't a problem, however if a car is a daily drive and used
to commute to work and left backing in the sun all day then that can be a
problem. Obviously I'd have to inspect it well. I wouldn't buy a car with
over 100K on it and I'd drive it less than 2,500 miles a year.

Your post has reminded me of something interesting. There is
this lady that owns the doughnut shop around the corner that owns a 1994
Lexus LS 400. My roommate told me that the car is cherry and always washed,
never dirty and looks like new, including the interior. The way that the
building sits and where she parks is in the shade for most of the day.
Anyway, I'm not sure how many miles are on the car but my roommate told me
that he talked to her about her car and she said that she only had her car
serviced at a Lexus dealership at all the recommended intervals. If this
car has fewer than 100k on it and it's clean I'd be interested in buying it.
I'm not a chiseler when it comes to getting what I want. The most important
thing to me is low mileage, proven regular maintenance and good condition.
Other than that car color really doesn't matter. Now the hard part, she's
never mentioned wanting to sell it. I was telling my roommate who always
talks to her, that if she is interested in selling it I'd be interested in
buying it.

Jeb

And I have to say that I'm very impressed with your cars dependability.
From what I've read and heard about the Lexus, you could easily go another
100k. You have the right idea about regular car maintenance. I always tell
people that regularly changing the fluids in the car is one of the important
things you can do to your car as preventative measure and one of the least
expensive I might add.

Jebediah Kornworthy

2007-03-30 19:22:41 UTC

Post by Jebediah Kornworthy
I would like to buy a used Lexus LS-400 or a Lexus LS-430 in the next
year or two perhaps (depending on my health.) I feel that they are a
very well built car and I'm sure many of you feel the same way.
I have been looking at many web sites and forums to find any and all
known and reoccurring problems with the car. Any helpful input would
be greatly appreciated.
I have read that certain years had major problems with the air ride
suspension and many people had it converted to a regular suspension.
Problems were reported and fairly common with the instrument cluster
circuit board failure in some years. I've read more than one post
on different sites where the gauges work intermittently or not at all
when it's cold and then start working again when it warms up inside
the car.
I've also read that the power steering pump can fail causing the
alternator fail also. I have never heard of or read of any major
engine or transmission failures but it doesn't mean that they don't
exist.
I know that no car is going to be perfect, and as a former
Maintenance Mechanic, I understand the complexities of machinery. I
know that any car will require regular service and maintenance. I
also know that any car part can fail for a variety of reasons. I'm
looking for patterns of failure on certain parts for different years.
I'm trying not to be nit picking. I'm just trying to decide what
year or years to stay away from that may have had some well-known and
costly repair problems. And I know that the newer the car is, the
less likely it will be to have major problems. I can't afford a new
Lexus LS 460 unfortunately. Obviously the older the car is the
cheaper it will be to buy it outright but it may be wiser to choose a
different year of car that has less known problems.
Is what I have read true? Do any of you agree that these are common
problems or just a fluke? I've read many posts on these problems but
that doesn't necessarily paint a true picture of known car problems
when we are taking about hundreds of thousands of units of cars
built. So what do you think? Is this true? Is it as commonplace as
it appears?
I like the 2000 Lexus LS 4000 and the 2001Lexus LS 430
I don't want to sound unappreciative, but I'm hoping we can stay on
topic with this thread. I don't like it when it turns into a flame war.
Thanks in advance for your input, suggestions and opinions.

Your research pretty much covers typical problems with the LS. The
optronic displays seem to be a little more durable now. Look for one
without the air suspension and you should be good to go.
Happy motoring!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Hello Ray O,
Or is it just Ray? Anyway I have seen many
posts by you and I'm always impressed by your replays. You obviously
know what you're talking about. If you don't mind me asking, what is
your background and how did you become so acquainted with the Lexus?
It seems like you are an engineer or mechanic who has in-depth
knowledge of the cars. Either way, you're always right with your
answers because I always double check to make sure that the information
I am getting is correct.
I always try to get my answers before bothering
people with the answers that are easily available. Honestly I don't
have a clue what the optronic displays are. Are they what one would
call the instrument cluster or gauges?
Many thanks Ray for all the help you have given others and me. I try
to get my information in all other places before asking for help. I
only ask questions in user groups when I am stumped.
Thanks,
Jeb

Just "Ray" works ;-)
I am not an engineer or mechanic, although I have always had an interest
in cars. I remember watching my dad work on cars on weekends and have
tinkered with them well before I had a driver's license. After college,
I worked at Toyota's San Francisco and Boston regional offices for about
15 years. Among my jobs was calling on dealers and helping them fix
problem cars.
I remember all of the discussion and talk when the Lexus division was
formed, and was fortunate to drive and LS prototype before they were
introduced in the U.S. A Lexus is technically the same as a Toyota and
there are more mechanical, electronic, and operational similarities than
there are differences.
I have let my ASE Master and Toyota Master tech certifications expire,
but the principles behind cars are basically the same now as they were
when Toyota introduced fuel injection in the 1979-1/2 Supra and Cressida.
I think you will enjoy the LS, I know I do! My biggest complaint is
that I no longer get a new car every 3 or 4 months, and I have to pay
for them!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Ray,
I think you're being modest here (which works for me.) You
know the car very well.
Like I said in the earlier thread, I'm just wondering if I
bought an older "creampuff" if I'd encounter any real problems other than
what I mentioned? I know I have to look out for the early air
suspensions. Do they still use air suspensions and if they do are they
dependable? What if I got an old car that was "Cheery Pie" and always
dealer serviced and garaged kept, do you think even an old one would be
ok? I'm talking 1990 to 1995 here. I am having some heath problems and
I don't know how much money I can afford in the next year. I'd like to
buy a newer car but I may not be able to do it at that time. I have
already looked at small shops that specialize in Lexus and have even
looked into what the Better Business Bureau said about them, so I think
that I have some good references in Southern California for dependable
repair shops. Maybe I'd be ok getting an older car. And yes I've even
looked into reputable (I think) companies that repair the older
http://www.bba-reman.com/catalogue/DetailedProduct.aspx?DetailedProduct=394
This isn't my first choice but I don't know how well I'll be doing in the
next year and even a new car (whatever brand) is more expensive than what
I'm looking at. After ten years, I think that I've let the resale value
of the car depreciate enough for me. Oh yeah, I'm not afraid to put some
money into an older car that has some promise. I've always serviced my
own cars and have done very well but I may not be able to that in the
near future. Sorry for talking your ears off.
Sorry about not getting that new car every 3 or 4 months. I wish I had
that same problem.
Jeb/AKA Dennis in Anaheim

The problem with a 1990 to 1995 car is that it will be between 12 and 17
years old. At that age, especially in Southern California, rubber and
plastic parts will begin to deteriorate, so there will be more of a
tendency for seals, gaskets, and hoses in the transmission, engine,
suspension, and body to crack, crumble, and leak or make noise. Also,
although the useable life of automatic transmissions have increased
greatly, they still have a finite lifetime, so I would be nervous about an
automatic transmission with over 200,000 miles.
As someone else mentioned, you may wish to consider an ES, but only if the
owner has meticulously changed the oil, or a GS, which is rear wheel
drive. I would try not to purchase a car over 10 years old so that your
chances of owning it for a longer time without problems are improved.
One problem that you did not mention above that I ran into with my 2000 LS
400 is that the starter failed. Normally, I would just change it myself
but it is located in the valley between the cylinder banks, underneath the
intake manifold, and it failed in the dead of winter in the Midwest so I
let the local Lexus dealer change it, which set me back $1,000. The air
suspension on the 2000 was beginning to sag when parked overnight, but the
on-board compressor had no problem bringing it back up when the engine was
running.
My 2001 LS has the dynamic laser cruise control, and an errant rock broke
the lens so I am currently without cruise control. I suspect that will be
another $500 to $1,000 repair, although I have not had it priced yet. Of
course, that would not be a problem with the conventional cruise control.
Stay healthy!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Hello Ray,

Ray, I have to respectfully disagree with you on the
rubber and plastic parts here in southern California. I have worked with
auto mechanics when I was younger and then worked as a Maintenance Mechanic
later in life. I've done most of my maintenance on my cars. I own a 1972
Ford F-250, that's 35 years old and has no rust and runs like a top. The
plastic is fine. I bought it 1992. At that time I spent $3,000.for in but
the guy had receipts for some high-end automotive shop and just had spent
$2,600 getting a rebuilt engine. I haven't put 12,000 miles on it since
then. I never drove the truck much and only wanted it to do project around
the house etc. It was never a daily driver.

If I can find a car that is garage kept and driven little this is what I'd
be looking for and have seen several of them on "Craig's list." I want a
car with around 80K miles on it. And I know it may be hard but they do
exist.

When I started looking into these Lexus's I went car shopping on the
Internet. Unfortunately most of the cars on the Internet are now sold buy
dealers. I wondered how honest the dealers were. The dealer cars always
had lower mileage then the comparable car being sold through private
parties. Well, I've always wondered about carfax but they wanted something
like $19.95 for one report, which I thought was ridicules. Then I found out
that I could get carfax for $24.00 for one month and unlimited car searches.
Most of the small car lots were miss-reporting the mileage on the vehicles.
Also many of the cars were sold to dealer after dealer with some of them
being lease and rental cars while other we repossessions. This is
definitely not what I want. I will only buy from private party and the 1st
or 2nd owner.

Ray O

2007-03-30 20:22:09 UTC

"Jebediah Kornworthy" <***@kornworhty.com> wrote in message news:460d638a$0$24754$***@roadrunner.com...
<snipped>

Post by Ray O
The problem with a 1990 to 1995 car is that it will be between 12 and 17
years old. At that age, especially in Southern California, rubber and
plastic parts will begin to deteriorate, so there will be more of a
tendency for seals, gaskets, and hoses in the transmission, engine,
suspension, and body to crack, crumble, and leak or make noise. Also,
although the useable life of automatic transmissions have increased
greatly, they still have a finite lifetime, so I would be nervous about
an automatic transmission with over 200,000 miles.
As someone else mentioned, you may wish to consider an ES, but only if
the owner has meticulously changed the oil, or a GS, which is rear wheel
drive. I would try not to purchase a car over 10 years old so that your
chances of owning it for a longer time without problems are improved.
One problem that you did not mention above that I ran into with my 2000
LS 400 is that the starter failed. Normally, I would just change it
myself but it is located in the valley between the cylinder banks,
underneath the intake manifold, and it failed in the dead of winter in
the Midwest so I let the local Lexus dealer change it, which set me back
$1,000. The air suspension on the 2000 was beginning to sag when parked
overnight, but the on-board compressor had no problem bringing it back up
when the engine was running.
My 2001 LS has the dynamic laser cruise control, and an errant rock broke
the lens so I am currently without cruise control. I suspect that will
be another $500 to $1,000 repair, although I have not had it priced yet.
Of course, that would not be a problem with the conventional cruise
control.
Stay healthy!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

I'm sure you can find 15 and 20 year old cars with well-preserved rubber and
plastic parts in soutthern California. I am not thinking so much about what
its condition isat the time you purchase the vehicle, but what it would be
like in 5 or 10 years, when the car is 20 or 25 years old as a daily driver.

Post by Jebediah Kornworthy
If I can find a car that is garage kept and driven little this is what I'd
be looking for and have seen several of them on "Craig's list." I want a
car with around 80K miles on it. And I know it may be hard but they do
exist.
When I started looking into these Lexus's I went car shopping on the
Internet. Unfortunately most of the cars on the Internet are now sold
buy dealers. I wondered how honest the dealers were. The dealer cars
always had lower mileage then the comparable car being sold through
private parties. Well, I've always wondered about carfax but they wanted
something like $19.95 for one report, which I thought was ridicules. Then
I found out that I could get carfax for $24.00 for one month and unlimited
car searches. Most of the small car lots were miss-reporting the mileage
on the vehicles. Also many of the cars were sold to dealer after dealer
with some of them being lease and rental cars while other we
repossessions. This is definitely not what I want. I will only buy from
private party and the 1st or 2nd owner.

The reason the dealers tend to have more low-mileage cars than independent
used car lots or private parties is because they cherry-pick the used cars.
The not-so-nice cars go the auction or are wholesaled to independent lots,
or owners decide to try to sell the car themselves instead of taking a
lower-trade-in at the dealership.

The problem I see with Carfax is that while the presence of an entry in a
car's history means it probably accurate, the absence of an entry is not
necessarily accurate because not all repair facilities report stuff to
Carfax. Fortunately, the new electronic odometers make it more likely that
the mileage indicated is correct.

--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Jebediah Kornworthy

2007-03-30 21:37:47 UTC

Post by Ray O
<snipped>

Post by Ray O
The problem with a 1990 to 1995 car is that it will be between 12 and 17
years old. At that age, especially in Southern California, rubber and
plastic parts will begin to deteriorate, so there will be more of a
tendency for seals, gaskets, and hoses in the transmission, engine,
suspension, and body to crack, crumble, and leak or make noise. Also,
although the useable life of automatic transmissions have increased
greatly, they still have a finite lifetime, so I would be nervous about
an automatic transmission with over 200,000 miles.
As someone else mentioned, you may wish to consider an ES, but only if
the owner has meticulously changed the oil, or a GS, which is rear wheel
drive. I would try not to purchase a car over 10 years old so that your
chances of owning it for a longer time without problems are improved.
One problem that you did not mention above that I ran into with my 2000
LS 400 is that the starter failed. Normally, I would just change it
myself but it is located in the valley between the cylinder banks,
underneath the intake manifold, and it failed in the dead of winter in
the Midwest so I let the local Lexus dealer change it, which set me back
$1,000. The air suspension on the 2000 was beginning to sag when parked
overnight, but the on-board compressor had no problem bringing it back
up when the engine was running.
My 2001 LS has the dynamic laser cruise control, and an errant rock
broke the lens so I am currently without cruise control. I suspect that
will be another $500 to $1,000 repair, although I have not had it priced
yet. Of course, that would not be a problem with the conventional cruise
control.
Stay healthy!
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

I'm sure you can find 15 and 20 year old cars with well-preserved rubber
and plastic parts in soutthern California. I am not thinking so much
about what its condition isat the time you purchase the vehicle, but what
it would be like in 5 or 10 years, when the car is 20 or 25 years old as a
daily driver.

Post by Jebediah Kornworthy
If I can find a car that is garage kept and driven little this is what
I'd be looking for and have seen several of them on "Craig's list." I
want a car with around 80K miles on it. And I know it may be hard but
they do exist.
When I started looking into these Lexus's I went car shopping on the
Internet. Unfortunately most of the cars on the Internet are now sold
buy dealers. I wondered how honest the dealers were. The dealer cars
always had lower mileage then the comparable car being sold through
private parties. Well, I've always wondered about carfax but they
wanted something like $19.95 for one report, which I thought was
ridicules. Then I found out that I could get carfax for $24.00 for one
month and unlimited car searches. Most of the small car lots were
miss-reporting the mileage on the vehicles. Also many of the cars were
sold to dealer after dealer with some of them being lease and rental cars
while other we repossessions. This is definitely not what I want. I
will only buy from private party and the 1st or 2nd owner.

Interesting but I still don't care for the small lots.

Post by Ray O
The problem I see with Carfax is that while the presence of an entry in a
car's history means it probably accurate, the absence of an entry is not
necessarily accurate because not all repair facilities report stuff to
Carfax. Fortunately, the new electronic odometers make it more likely
that the mileage indicated is correct.
--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Actually it is surprisingly accurate. Carfax reports when the car has been
registered, changed owners, smogged, repossessed or had a lien on the car.
Oh yeah, the most important thing is the "flood cars." It can see if the
car was ever issued a salvage title and then reregistered. I ran a carfax
on my roommate's car and he was shocked on how accurate it was. Of course
there are things that you'll never know about how the car was treated or
serviced but if it was serviced by a reputable dealer then that shows also.
I won't buy another car without running carfax. I don't know if you have
used it before but if you want I can send you (or anyone) a sample from a I
car that I looked into.

Max

2007-03-31 02:57:41 UTC

On Fri, 30 Mar 2007 14:37:47 -0700, "Jebediah Kornworthy"
<***@kornworhty.com> graced this newsgroup with:

<snip>

Post by Jebediah Kornworthy
Actually it is surprisingly accurate. Carfax reports when the car has been
registered, changed owners, smogged, repossessed or had a lien on the car.
Oh yeah, the most important thing is the "flood cars." It can see if the
car was ever issued a salvage title and then reregistered. I ran a carfax
on my roommate's car and he was shocked on how accurate it was. Of course
there are things that you'll never know about how the car was treated or
serviced but if it was serviced by a reputable dealer then that shows also.
I won't buy another car without running carfax. I don't know if you have
used it before but if you want I can send you (or anyone) a sample from a I
car that I looked into.

It's a good reference point but it certainly isn't the definative
source. In fact, Carfax has a class action lawsuit filed against them
because they advertise that they provide "a complete vehicle history
report", and in fact a large amount of information may NOT show up
on a CARFAX report.

To be fair, they can't report what isn't reported. Here's some info
on the lawsuit:

http://tinyurl.com/35rdqq

Ray O

2007-03-31 03:41:46 UTC

"Jebediah Kornworthy" <***@kornworhty.com> wrote in message news:460d83ee$0$24736$***@roadrunner.com...
<snipped>

Post by Ray O
The reason the dealers tend to have more low-mileage cars than
independent used car lots or private parties is because they cherry-pick
the used cars. The not-so-nice cars go the auction or are wholesaled to
independent lots, or owners decide to try to sell the car themselves
instead of taking a lower-trade-in at the dealership.

Interesting but I still don't care for the small lots.

In my experience, small independent lots are not as willing to stand behind
their cars as new car dealers.

Actually it is surprisingly accurate. Carfax reports when the car has
been registered, changed owners, smogged, repossessed or had a lien on the
car. Oh yeah, the most important thing is the "flood cars." It can see if
the car was ever issued a salvage title and then reregistered. I ran a
carfax on my roommate's car and he was shocked on how accurate it was. Of
course there are things that you'll never know about how the car was
treated or serviced but if it was serviced by a reputable dealer then that
shows also. I won't buy another car without running carfax. I don't know
if you have used it before but if you want I can send you (or anyone) a
sample from a I car that I looked into.

I have seen Carfax reports, and the info they report is pretty accurate.
Registrations, smog checks, salvage titles, etc. are in the public domain,
and Carfax is a convenient way to collate this information. It is the
information that is not reported to Carfax that I would worry about. Even
if you get a Carfax report, it would be a safe bet to have a reputable and
competent technician check any car you are interested in. I can usually
spot bodywork, and bodywork that I can't easily spot is probably as good as
the factory paint job. A competent technician should be able to do the
same, along wit checking the transmission, engine, brakes, body, etc.

--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

Xplant

2007-03-30 21:24:33 UTC

Post by Jebediah Kornworthy
I would like to buy a used Lexus LS-400 or a Lexus LS-430 in the next year
or two perhaps (depending on my health.) I feel that they are a very well
built car and I'm sure many of you feel the same way.
I have been looking at many web sites and forums to find any and all known
and reoccurring problems with the car. Any helpful input would be greatly
appreciated.
I have read that certain years had major problems with the air ride
suspension and many people had it converted to a regular suspension.
Problems were reported and fairly common with the instrument cluster
circuit board failure in some years. I've read more than one post on
different sites where the gauges work intermittently or not at all when
it's cold and then start working again when it warms up inside the car.
I've also read that the power steering pump can fail causing the
alternator fail also. I have never heard of or read of any major engine
or transmission failures but it doesn't mean that they don't exist.
I know that no car is going to be perfect, and as a former Maintenance
Mechanic, I understand the complexities of machinery. I know that any
car will require regular service and maintenance. I also know that any
car part can fail for a variety of reasons. I'm looking for patterns of
failure on certain parts for different years.
I'm trying not to be nit picking. I'm just trying to decide what year or
years to stay away from that may have had some well-known and costly
repair problems. And I know that the newer the car is, the less likely it
will be to have major problems. I can't afford a new Lexus LS 460
unfortunately. Obviously the older the car is the cheaper it will be to
buy it outright but it may be wiser to choose a different year of car that
has less known problems.
Is what I have read true? Do any of you agree that these are common
problems or just a fluke? I've read many posts on these problems but that
doesn't necessarily paint a true picture of known car problems when we are
taking about hundreds of thousands of units of cars built. So what do you
think? Is this true? Is it as commonplace as it appears?
I like the 2000 Lexus LS 4000 and the 2001Lexus LS 430
I don't want to sound unappreciative, but I'm hoping we can stay on topic
with this thread. I don't like it when it turns into a flame war.
Thanks in advance for your input, suggestions and opinions.

I currently have a 2002 LS430, and a 1992 SC400. Previously had a 1991
LS400.

I will be a little stronger than former posters. Do NOT consider a car with
air suspension. Our 1991 LS400 had air suspension, and it was a disaster.
Conversion is a possibility but not inexpensive-- better just to stay away
from it.

The 2002 LS430 is a fabulous car-- NO problems to date--5+ years and 62K
miles. I bought my 1992 SC400 new in 1991, now has almost 200K miles.
Rubber degradation (SF Bay Area) has not been a problem-- still have the
original radiator hoses, and vacuum hoses and I watch them carefully.
Leather has finally started to give-up, despite Lexol treatment the last 5
years.

For the early LS400 your homework has been good-- you hit most of the
'expected problems'. I had them all. One you missed is leaking/'smudged'
heater/AC Controller LCD. Now replacement LCD's available for approx $120.

I am still a big Lexus booster. My in-laws have a 2003 ES330, but it's not
near the car the LS400/430 is IMHO.

Good luck!

Jebediah Kornworthy

2007-03-30 23:02:56 UTC

Post by Xplant

Post by Jebediah Kornworthy
I would like to buy a used Lexus LS-400 or a Lexus LS-430 in the next year
or two perhaps (depending on my health.) I feel that they are a very well
built car and I'm sure many of you feel the same way.
I have been looking at many web sites and forums to find any and all
known and reoccurring problems with the car. Any helpful input would be
greatly appreciated.
I have read that certain years had major problems with the air ride
suspension and many people had it converted to a regular suspension.
Problems were reported and fairly common with the instrument cluster
circuit board failure in some years. I've read more than one post on
different sites where the gauges work intermittently or not at all when
it's cold and then start working again when it warms up inside the car.
I've also read that the power steering pump can fail causing the
alternator fail also. I have never heard of or read of any major engine
or transmission failures but it doesn't mean that they don't exist.
I know that no car is going to be perfect, and as a former Maintenance
Mechanic, I understand the complexities of machinery. I know that any
car will require regular service and maintenance. I also know that any
car part can fail for a variety of reasons. I'm looking for patterns of
failure on certain parts for different years.
I'm trying not to be nit picking. I'm just trying to decide what year or
years to stay away from that may have had some well-known and costly
repair problems. And I know that the newer the car is, the less likely
it will be to have major problems. I can't afford a new Lexus LS 460
unfortunately. Obviously the older the car is the cheaper it will be to
buy it outright but it may be wiser to choose a different year of car
that has less known problems.
Is what I have read true? Do any of you agree that these are common
problems or just a fluke? I've read many posts on these problems but
that doesn't necessarily paint a true picture of known car problems when
we are taking about hundreds of thousands of units of cars built. So
what do you think? Is this true? Is it as commonplace as it appears?
I like the 2000 Lexus LS 4000 and the 2001Lexus LS 430
I don't want to sound unappreciative, but I'm hoping we can stay on topic
with this thread. I don't like it when it turns into a flame war.
Thanks in advance for your input, suggestions and opinions.

I definitely won't

Post by Xplant
The 2002 LS430 is a fabulous car-- NO problems to date--5+ years and 62K
miles. I bought my 1992 SC400 new in 1991, now has almost 200K miles.
Rubber degradation (SF Bay Area) has not been a problem-- still have the
original radiator hoses, and vacuum hoses and I watch them carefully.
Leather has finally started to give-up, despite Lexol treatment the last 5
years.

Leather has started to give up? Worn and torn maybe or just degrading?
Maybe it spent too much time in the sun with the windows up?
I guess that Lexol is the preferred treatment for leather seats?

Post by Xplant
For the early LS400 your homework has been good-- you hit most of the
'expected problems'. I had them all. One you missed is leaking/'smudged'
heater/AC Controller LCD. Now replacement LCD's available for approx $120.

Thanks, I've added that to my list of possible problems

Post by Xplant
I am still a big Lexus booster. My in-laws have a 2003 ES330, but it's
not near the car the LS400/430 is IMHO.
Good luck!

Xplant,

Thanks for the sage advice. I definitely will NOT
BUY one with the air ride suspension based your advice and the advice of
others. I owned a 1988 Lincoln Mark VII LSC with anti-stop brakes (no, not
anti-lock.) Although the anti-lock brakes were designed to prevent them from
skidding they also didn't stop the car very well. Biggest pieces of junk I
ever owned. It also had problems with the airbags. They needed to be
replaced because they were cracked and leaking. So I've had my experience
with bad air bags also (airbag, not to confused with my ex-wife.)

Jeb

Chip L

2007-04-02 17:14:12 UTC

Post by Xplant
I will be a little stronger than former posters. Do NOT consider a car with
air suspension. Our 1991 LS400 had air suspension, and it was a disaster.

I spent $3k in rebuilding just the rear Air Suspension on my '90 LS.
One strut, then the other, then the air pump. The rear air suspension
pump is a $1600 part new (bought used for $275). That is one weakness
in an otherwise fantastic car - 17 years old, 260k miles. Wonderful
drivetrain.

I had them all. One you missed is leaking/'smudged'

Post by Xplant
heater/AC Controller LCD. Now replacement LCD's available for approx $120.

Where can I find a replacement heater/AC controller LCD? Mine also is
out.

Chip L

Jerohm

2007-04-03 00:04:20 UTC

Post by Chip L
Where can I find a replacement heater/AC controller LCD? Mine also is
out.
Chip L

http://motors.search.ebay.com/search/search.dll?sofocus=bs&sbrftog=1&catref=C6&fcl=3&from=R10&sojs=0&satitle=lexus+ls400+lcd&sacat=6028%26catref%3DC6&fmmk=&fmmd=&fylo=&fyhi=&mppfqy=lexus+ls400+lcd&sargn=-1%26saslc%3D2&sadis=200&fpos=ZIP%2FPostal&ftrt=1&ftrv=1&saprclo=&saprchi=&fsop=2%26fsoo%3D2&coaction=compare&copagenum=1&coentrypage=search&fgtp=

Jebediah Kornworthy

2007-04-04 23:41:27 UTC

Post by Chip L

Post by Xplant
I will be a little stronger than former posters. Do NOT consider a car with
air suspension. Our 1991 LS400 had air suspension, and it was a disaster.

I spent $3k in rebuilding just the rear Air Suspension on my '90 LS.
One strut, then the other, then the air pump. The rear air suspension
pump is a $1600 part new (bought used for $275). That is one weakness
in an otherwise fantastic car - 17 years old, 260k miles. Wonderful
drivetrain.
I had them all. One you missed is leaking/'smudged'

Post by Xplant
heater/AC Controller LCD. Now replacement LCD's available for approx $120.

Where can I find a replacement heater/AC controller LCD? Mine also is
out.
Chip L

Chip,

I'm a little late on this thread but here is another place that
sells them for a fixed price.

http://parts.lextreme.com/interior.html

These prices seem to be very fair.

Jeb

njbok

2007-04-05 03:02:46 UTC

Regarding the problem with air suspension, is this a problem with LS430s as
well as LS400s ? I'm not familiar with the problem, and since I've decided
to look into buying a 2004 LS430, I want to familiarize myself with known
problems with that car.

Is the suspension adjustable by a switch or knob on the dash or console on
the 04 ? If so, I want to know where to look so that I'll know immediately
if the car is so-equipped.

Thanks

Ray O

2007-04-05 04:32:12 UTC

Post by njbok
Regarding the problem with air suspension, is this a problem with LS430s as
well as LS400s ? I'm not familiar with the problem, and since I've decided
to look into buying a 2004 LS430, I want to familiarize myself with known
problems with that car.
Is the suspension adjustable by a switch or knob on the dash or console on
the 04 ? If so, I want to know where to look so that I'll know immediately
if the car is so-equipped.
Thanks

There is a ride height switch in vehicles with the air suspension.

--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

njbok

2007-04-05 15:15:28 UTC

On 4/5/07 12:32 AM, in article
dbcc1$46147bdc$47c2b532$***@msgid.meganewsservers.com, "Ray O"
<rokigawaATtristarassociatesDOTcom> wrote:

Thanks Ray. I'll watch for that switch (I assume it's on the center console
?)

walt

Post by Ray O
There is a ride height switch in vehicles with the air suspension.

Ray O

2007-04-05 15:27:10 UTC

Post by njbok
On 4/5/07 12:32 AM, in article
Thanks Ray. I'll watch for that switch (I assume it's on the center console
?)
walt

Post by Ray O
There is a ride height switch in vehicles with the air suspension.

In my '01 LS, the switch is near the bottom of the "stack" in the center of
the dashboard that comes down to meet the console with the shifter. There
is a horizontal row of buttons - one to select sport or normal ride, one for
suspension height, one for the headlight washer, and one or two more that I
can't recall offhand - I think they are for the rear sunshade and to return
the rear seat to the upright position.

If you look in the rear wheel well, you will see a rubber bladder inside the
coil spring.

--
Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)

elmarsa dice

2007-04-27 19:47:50 UTC