5th Sep 2007, 17:09
The LS400 is a wonderful car in all aspects as long as you or the previous owner (s) maintain the regular and preventative service.
Mine is 1994 @ 98,000 miles, still runs perfect, never a major problem.
The body roll could be better with minor modifications.
This car can be really fast, but NOT agile. I got it to xxx miles/hr on I5 for a short period of time (just to test, NOT a good thing to do – illegal).
One more thing, forget the bloody Lexus dealer!!! Check out the Asian run certified Japanese auto shop, walk in with confidence with some basic knowledge, be friendly with the mechanic, tell them exactly what you want, and tried NOT to be an a..., they will get the job done right, and even give you some extra help at no charge to you.
23rd Sep 2007, 23:30
Purchased in 1998 as certified used car with 55k miles on it. In 2001 and 2002, I must have spent about 10k to 12k for repairs, mostly wear-n-tear mechanical or electronic components. Since then, no problems at all. Brake pads need to be replaced every 2 to 3 years. I don't do the routine maintenance because I rather save that money for real repairs, but have not had any since 2002. I've paid more money for cheaper cars that cost me more in repairs and replacement after 5 years, so Lexus is a great investment for me. As of now, it still drives like new.
6th Jan 2008, 23:44
I bought a 1994 Ls400 about 3 years ago for $10,000. I definitely over-paid, and have had some repairs over the last few years. The car has 115,000 miles now. But there is a secret. If you are reasonably handy, then you do not have to get shafted by the dealers. To date, my major repair has been the timing belt and the water pump ($1,300...yes my local indie nailed me). Other than that, I have done all the bulb replacement, spark plug and wires, and such. I even replaced a valve on the P/S pump, and hope this will delay the early failure of the pump; shame on you Yamamoto for this known faulty issue. I also removed and had renovated the dash needles and lighting issue for $225; a known problem that Mr. Yamamoto should again apologize for. Other than standard problems, this is the best car I have ever owned. I figured out that the price of owning a luxury car like this has cost me $76.00 a month. Try buying a new Lexus for this much, let alone the insurance. I love this car...
2nd Mar 2008, 14:36
OH MY GOD I just bought my very 1st car... 93 LS400 with all the gizmos. This feels almost illegal driving something that's this nice.
The ride is soo quiet that if I weren't relaxing with my Pioneer system steadily bassing, I would fall asleep.
I'm sure you're wondering how many miles this outstanding and well maintained vehicle has. But before I shock you, let me reassure you that yes the common problems with this car have occurred already, but I did replace everything necessary. List below:
Water pump
Thermostat
Timing belt
Accessory pulleys
Spark plug wires
I was recommended to replace these in order to help with the water pump leakages. All cost me a total of about 1500; well worth the pay because I took it to Toyota (instead of Lexus) and parts were cheap. Even got a tune up just for the heck of it :)
Year 2008 and I'm driving a 93 with 217k of mileage under the hood (HIGHWAY MILES MOSTLY!!!).
And I tell ya, the car drives... Beautiful, the leather still has her sexy swagger with no wear and tear...
2nd Mar 2008, 14:43
I'm not done!!! LOL.
This is the definition of reliable luxury here.
Coming from a 17 year old may not mean much, but I realize that no Cadillac or even Mercedes can make your self esteem and your bank account feel so good. And I hope to enjoy detailing and driving this LS400 for quite some time.
7th Apr 2006, 14:14
I bought this car because of what every review says about it... which is great.
I have had the car in the shop 3 times in the 3 months I've owned it. I've put about $4000 into the car, and now they're telling me it needs a transmission when the car shifts perfect. I'm beginning to think Lexus is out to screw people for the $100 an hour labor charge.
I searched for 3 months for a LS400 with low miles and all records. I thought I wouldn't have any expenses if it was maintained properly. I was wrong. I'm not going to say stay away from the car cause I do love it. The car is very safe and comfortable.