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Lexus LS400 Problems

Are you having problems with your Lexus LS400? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest Lexus LS400 issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the Lexus LS400 in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

Used Lexus LS review: 2000-2016

Ewan Kennedy reviews the third and fourth-generation Lexus LS as a used buy.

In 1989 the Lexus LS400 was the first Japanese car to tackle the upmarket German machines Mercedes S-Class, BMW 7 Series and Audi A8 head on. Jaguar's XJ was also in Toyota's sights (Lexus is controlled by Toyota), though the British marque wasn't doing particularly well at that time.

Lexus tells us 'LS' stands for Luxury Sports, however there's a lot more luxury than sport. Handling is certainly safe and secure but doesn't provide the sporting enjoyment of the big name Germans and British sedans.

The most noticeable feature of the Lexus LS series is their near-silence and impressive ride comfort. Topline materials are used throughout and the cars are built to an immaculate standard.

The LS400 was discontinued late in 2000, to be replaced by a near-new design in the LS430. That's where we will begin this used-car report. In September 2003 a revised and upgraded version of the Lexus LS430 arrived in Australia. It has features such as doors that pull themselves closed, and door mirrors that automatically folded when you switch the ignition off.

There's front-mounted radar on the cruise control. If heavy braking is required the Lexus sounds a gong to grab your attention. This was one of the early adopters of a reversing camera. And the electric motor that automatically powers down the sunscreen in the rear window when you engage reverse gear.

April 2007 saw the introduction of an all-new LS, the 460, with a larger V8 engine. The numbers in the title refers to the capacity of the engine in decilitres.

All engines are whisper quiet and produce plenty of power with virtually instantaneous throttle response. They are reasonably economical, indeed pretty good considering the size of the car, and in the early Lexus LS are noticeably better than the Europeans. The Euros caught up later, but there's a pretty good chance they bought and dismantled the Lexus V8s as part of their research.

It comes as a surprise to some non-motoring people that Lexus V8 engines are popular with those building hotrods and some racing cars. They really are impressive powerplants.

A hybrid Lexus LS600hL was introduced in November 2007. The '600' doesn't mean there's a 6.0-litre engine under the bonnet (pity!) but that Lexus considers the hybrid has the sort of performance that would normally require a 6.0-litre unit. The 'L' in the title announces this is a limousine, with a longer wheelbase than the standard Lexus LS460.

Most LS600hL models were imported with an upper-luxury layout featuring just two business-class seats in the rear, though you could get a more conventional three-seat bench if you desire. A timber-trimmed console between the two seats contains controls for the Mark Levinson audio system as well as the inbuilt DVD player, climate control and other minor functions.

Dealerships that specialise in the Lexus marque are relatively scarce and tend to be confined to capital cities and major country cities. The Toyota network can assist Lexus owners as some senior technicians are trained on it. (Lexus is the upmarket division of Toyota, though, oddly, Lexuses were sold as Toyotas in Japan for many years.)

Insurance isn't likely to be overly expensive in comparison with the high price of the Lexus LS, and is generally in the same grouping as the big-three German marques.

Many used cars are bought from a Lexus dealership and have been serviced by that, or another, Lexus dealer. These tend to be more expensive, but smart buyers consider it a good move.

Lexus LS that are bought new come with an Encore Lifestyle Package, Buyers of used LSs up to five years old and bought from a Lexus dealer receive the same benefits. These include such things as complimentary service pick up and delivery of the car and roadside assistance. On the social side are priority ticketing service at some cultural centres, golf days and a luxury travel service. These benefits may change from time to time so contact your local Lexus dealer for the latest details.

It should be considered essential to have a Lexus LS inspected by a Lexus technician at a dealership. Some senior Toyota mechanics are trained on the car and may be able to help if you're in an area remote from Lexus.

Check for damage to the bodywork and the interior trim and remember the car should be close to immaculate in all areas unless it is one of the oldest models. Even then, we would expect the car to be in very good condition inside.

Look over the complete vehicle, testing each of the functions using the owner's manual to work out exactly how everything should operate.

Make sure the engine starts virtually immediately and accelerates without hesitation even when it is cold. Look for a puff of oily smoke from the exhaust when you accelerate hard after the engine has been running on a light load, or idling, for a while.

The automatic transmission should operate almost imperceptibly. A gentle thud during an upchange in very hard acceleration is acceptable, anything else may indicate a problem.

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Used Lexus LS review: 1990-2014

The most noticeable feature of the Lexus LS series models is their near-silence and comfort. Features that put them very much in the upmarket limousine class. First rate materials are used throughout and these are assembled with meticulous care. Though aimed very much at the Mercedes S-Class, BMW 7 Series and Audi A8, the top-line Lexus hasn't quite managed to reach their high status in the image stakes despite 25 years on the market. But they're reasonably close and will obviously keep trying to improve.

Lexus tells us 'LS' stands for Luxury Sports, however to our eyes there's a lot more luxury than sport. Handling is safe and secure but doesn't have quite the sporting sparkle you get in the big Germans.

The LS400 was discontinued late in 2000, to be replaced by a near-new design in the LS430. April 2007 saw the introduction of an all-new LS, the 460. The numbers in the title refers to the capacity of the V8 engine in decilitres.

Interior space was good in the original 1990 LS400, but was noticeably improved in November 1994 when the initial model received a solid revamp. Given that Lexus had learned a lot in the early production years, cars from this model are probably the ones to aspire to. There was a facelift in November 1997.

September 2003 saw a revised and upgraded version of the Lexus LS430. It has features such as doors that pull themselves closed, and door mirrors that automatically fold when you switch the ignition off. There's front-mounted radar to keep an electronic eye on the vehicle ahead when you are using the cruise control. If heavy braking is required the Lexus sounds a gong to grab your attention.

This was one of the early adopters of a reversing camera. And the electric motor that automatically powers down the sunscreen in the rear window when you engage reverse gear.

Lexus LS400 is powered by a 4.0-litre V8 engine that is incredibly smooth. It was uprated several times during its life before being replaced by a revised 4.3-litre unit late in 2000. The LS460 engine was virtually all-new.

Of particular interest is the hybrid Lexus LS600hL, introduced in November 2007. Just to confuse matters, the '600' doesn't mean there's a 6.0-litre engine under the bonnet, but that Lexus considers its new hybrid has the sort of performance that would normally require a 6.0-litre engine. The 'L' in the title announces this is a limousine, with a longer wheelbase than the standard Lexus LS460 on which it's based.

Most LS600hL models were imported with an upper-luxury layout featuring just two business-class seats in the rear. A timber-trimmed console between the two seats contains controls for the Mark Levinson audio system as well as the inbuilt DVD player, climate control, rear window shades and other functions.

Dealerships that specialise in the Lexus marque are relatively scarce and tend to be confined to capital cities and major country centres. The far-flung Toyota network can assist Lexus owners as some mechanics are specifically trained on it.

Insurance isn't likely to be overly expensive in comparison with the high price of the car.

Many used cars are bought from a Lexus dealership and have been serviced by that, or another, dealer. These tend to be more expensive, but smart buyers consider it a good move.

All new Lexus models come with an impressive Encore lifestyle package that includes complimentary service pick up and delivery of the car, roadside assistance, a priority ticketing service at leading cultural centres, golf days and a luxury travel service. Buyers of used vehicles up to five years old and bought from a Lexus dealer receive the same benefits. The offerings may change from time to time so contact your local Lexus dealer for the latest info.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

It's smart to have a Lexus inspected by either by a motoring association or a specialist in the marque. In the absence of a Lexus technician, some senior Toyota mechanics are trained on the car.

Check for damage to the bodywork and the interior trim and remember the car should be close to immaculate in all areas unless it is one of the oldest models. Even then, we would expect the car to be in very good condition inside.

Look over the complete vehicle, testing each of the functions using the owner's manual to work out exactly how everything should operate.

Make sure the engine starts virtually immediately and accelerates without hesitation even when it is cold. Look for a puff of oily smoke from the exhaust when you accelerate hard after the engine has been running on a light load, or idling, for a while.

Some early Lexus LS400 cars, built before August 1992, had an oil leak at the rear of the engine. The chances are that most, if not all, engines will have been repaired years ago. Check with Lexus if there's any doubt.

Make sure the automatic transmission operates almost imperceptibly. A slight thud during a change during very hard acceleration is acceptable, anything else may indicate a problem.

During an extended road test make sure the brakes stop the car in a straight line without too much pedal effort, and that the steering is precise, smooth and reasonably light.

CAR BUYING TIP

Upmarket cars with full service records for their entire lives are likely to cost more, but are almost invariably worth the extra investment.

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Used Lexus LS400 review: 1990-1994

When Toyota launched its prestige brand in 1990 it swept through the automotive establishment like a blazing bush fire fanned by a hot midsummer northerly. The luxury LS400 was the first Lexus model to be launched and it so shook up Mercedes-Benz that they haven’t been the same since, and for that we can all be most thankful.

Talking about it recently Cars Guide editor Paul Gover described it as being like the Japanese raid on Pearl Harbour in World War 2. The Japanese bombers arrived unannounced and with devastating effect sent most the American Pacific Fleet to the bottom while they lay at anchor in port. It was a huge setback to the Americans at the time, but it had an even more devastating effect on the Japanese because, as Gover said, it awoke the sleeping giant.

The same can be said for the opening salvo in the Lexus raid on the luxury market segment with the LS400, which caught the established luxury carmakers unaware.

Overnight American buyers switched from the star marque in particular and bought the new Japanese car instead. It was a wake-up call for Mercedes just like the Japanese bombing raid on Hawaii was for the Americans in 1941.

Mercedes-Benz had so dominated the top end of town it was as if they believed they had a God-given right to the luxury market and had become complacent. When the Lexus arrived with an alternative that was just as well equipped, and had all of the technology the Mercedes had, and importantly had much better build quality, many traditional ’Benz buyers jumped ship.

The German company was shaken out of its lethargy and realised that it had to compete for sales if it wanted to keep its pre-eminent position. Before long Mercedes had new, and much improved models on sale, with much higher levels of technology, equipment, and quality. For the first time in years, Mercedes was listening to its customers, and maybe more importantly they listened to those previously loyal customers who’d turned their back on the company.

Mercedes response was, much like the American response in World War 2, devastating for the impertinent aggressor. Toyota was set back on its heels when the Germans counter punched, and the newcomer found itself under the pump.

Proving heritage matters buyers returned to the establishment players and abandoned Lexus once the Germans lifted their game. Lexus, without the heritage to match its European rivals, than had to rely solely on its primary positives of technical sophistication, comfort, and build comfort when they were being matched or bettered by its rivals.

Having given Benz and BMW the wake-up call they badly needed, the Lexus was no longer needed. Selling them became hard work, and the value of used cars dipped.

If you can get past the badge value of the ’Benz there is plenty to recommend the LS400 as a prestige used car buy today.

MODEL WATCH

One look at the LS 400 launched in 1990 is enough to reveal Toyota’s intended target. There are unmistakable cues that recall Mercedes-Benz cars of the time, it’s no wonder Benz buyers were enticed away from Mercedes dealers and into the new Lexus showrooms across town. Replace the Lexus badge with the three-pointed star and you could easily be convinced you were driving a car from Stuttgart.

The LS400 was a conservative shape as demanded by its market segment. Its lines were smooth, but solid and substantial, perfect for executives and others wanting to convey the impression of success.

If the shape was reminiscent of the big German the quality with which it was put together far outstripped anything that was being built in Europe at the time. A tour of the Lexus plant in 1994 just before the LS400 received a major makeover revealed a state-of-the-art factory jam-packed with computer driven robots able to assemble the car to the tightest tolerances. Production engineers were passionate about their ability to consistently turn out high quality, and even a cursory look at the panel fit and body gaps was enough to confirm that they were tight and very consistent. At the time it’s doubtful that there was a car being built with better quality.

What lay below the superbly turned out skin was equally impressive. Suitably it was a 4.0-litre double overhead cam V8 that provided sufficient motivation for the LS400 to race to 100 km/h in a tick over eight seconds with a top speed of 240 km/h. It was fuel-injected, had four valves per cylinder, and pumped out a peak of 190 kW and 360 Nm.

Silkily smooth it was barely evident at normal round town speeds, even at high speed it was totally unfussed with never a murmur to disturb the interior ambience.

The transmission was a four-speed auto, again superbly matched to the engine. Shifts were imperceptible, gearing perfect so progress was always smooth.

Suspension was independent all round, steering was power assisted, and ABS kept a watch on the disc brakes fitted at each corner.

Inside, the LS400 was appropriately equipped with leather trim, power front seats, power mirrors and windows, seven-speaker radio/cassette sound with a six-stacker CD player, cruise control, and a driver’s airbag. Remote central locking along with an alarm and immobiliser kept thieves at bay.

A passenger’s airbag was added in 1992, at the same time 16-inch alloy wheels replaced the 15-inch alloys fitted that were standard from 1990.

IN THE SHOP

Impeccable build quality and renowned Toyota reliability mean there is little that goes wrong with the LS400. Add to that owners who have the wherewithal to look after them, keep them clean and have them properly serviced and they can be bought with confidence.

Even so look carefully for proof of service, particularly a service book with verifiable entries confirming service by a credible service agent. Check engine and transmission vitals and look for fluids that are old and in need of replacement, a sure sign that servicing has been neglected.

Check body carefully for colour mismatches, crook panel fit, variable gaps between panels, which are a sure sign of repairs. Check alloy wheels for damaged caused by being driven into kerbs, and look further for suspension damage if wheels are heavily scarred.

OWNER’S VIEW

Chris Smith bought a 1993 LS400 and loved it for its quality, engine, quietness, comfort and appointments, ride and exterior design, and has no problem with its perceived lack of prestige. His only problem (odo now says 190,000 km) was the replacement of the power steering oil reservoir at 100,000 km for around $1400. He says they are tremendous second hand value.

LOOK FOR

• great build quality with perfect panel gaps and fit.

• silky smooth engine and drive line for fuss free motoring.

• every conceivable comfort and convenience fitment.

• good performance despite weighty body.

• renowned Toyota reliability on a grand scale.

• premium newcomer that lacks prestige of the traditional makes.

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Critical load rating

The load rating is critical to maintain. There is no legal requirement to fit a particular speed-rating tyre to any car. The Lexus was fitted with Z-rated tyres for those situations when it's driven fully laden at its speed potential for extended periods. You're right, it's something that's not legally possible here, so choosing a tyre with a lower speed rating is good advice.

Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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