1996 Lexus Gs problems
The Lexus GS (Japanese: レクサス・GS, Rekusasu GS) is an executive car (E-segment in Europe) manufactured and marketed by Lexus across four generations — launched in 1991 as the Toyota Aristo in Japan and as the Lexus GS for markets outside the JDM beginning in February 1993. It continued with the Toyota Aristo name for the Japanese market until January 2005.
Lexus marketed the GS as a performance sedan competing in the mid-luxury class, between its compact executive IS and large/flagship LS. The GS shared its chassis with one of Toyota's longest-running nameplates, the Toyota Crown premium sedans until 2011.
The GS featured six-cylinder engines and rear-wheel drive, with a V8 engines offered forall generations, and all-wheel drive and hybrid versions debuted in 2005. Previously, all-wheel drive versions were already made available in the Japanese-market S140 series Aristo. The first two generations had a Japanese domestic market equivalent, the Toyota Aristo (aristo is Greek for "the best"), which was sold from 1991 until the Lexus marque's domestic debut in 2005. Though largely identical in exterior and interior design, the GS and the Aristo differed in their engine and transmission combinations as well as equipment packages. The GS name stands for Grand Sedan. However, some Lexus importers use the backronymic name, Grand Sport.
The first generation Lexus GS began sales in the United States, Europe and selected Asian markets in 1993. It was originally introduced with an inline-six engine and exterior bodywork designed by Italdesign Giugiaro. The second generation model premiered in 1997, using a new platform, in-house styling, and adding a V8 version for the first time outside Japan. The third generation GS, which premiered globally for the 2006 model year, was produced in V6, V8, and hybrid versions, the latter known as the GS 450h. The third generation models were the first GS sedans to be badged as such in the Japanese domestic market.
The fourth generation Lexus GS premiered in August 2011 at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, where models introduced included the V6-powered GS 350, hybrid GS 450h, and performance-tuned F Sport variants. A lower-displacement V6 model, the GS 250, premiered at the Auto Guangzhou Exhibition in November 2011, targeted at Asian and European markets. In some markets such as North America and Asia, the GS shares the mid-size sedan category in the Lexus lineup with the front-wheel drive ES, serving as its rear-wheel-drive counterpart.
The GS was replaced in Europe by the Lexus ES from December 2018. The seventh generation ES is the first to be sold in Europe, replacing the GS in spite of being a front-wheel drive car. It went on sale from September 2018 in Russia, Turkey and other CIS markets and from December 2018 in Western and Central Europe. Production ended in August 2020.
Social links
Common 1996 Lexus Gs problems
The Lexus GS300, a luxury sedan produced by Toyota's luxury division, has been praised for its performance and reliability:
- Brake Actuator Failure: One of the most common problems with the Lexus GS300 is loud braking noise, which is often caused by failing brake actuators. This issue can lead to decreased braking performance and increased stopping distances, posing a safety risk to both the driver and other road users.
- Faulty Starter: A faulty starter is a relatively rare issue in the Lexus GS300, but it becomes more common as the vehicle ages. This problem can manifest as difficulty starting the engine, even when the battery and associated cables are in good condition.
- Power Steering Pump Leaks: The power steering pump is a common source of leaks in the Lexus GS300, particularly in higher mileage vehicles. This issue can lead to a loss of power steering assistance, making it more difficult to maneuver the vehicle, especially at low speeds.
- Window Trim Separation: The window trims in the Lexus GS300 can separate after a number of years, leading to a costly repair. This issue not only affects the vehicle's appearance but can also lead to water ingress and subsequent damage to the interior.
- Seat Seams Unthreading: The seams for the seats in the Lexus GS300 can start to unthread, leading to a less than desirable appearance and potential comfort issues for the driver and passengers.
- Wood Veneer Cracks: The wood veneer in the Lexus GS300 can crack over time, which can be a costly repair. This issue not only affects the vehicle's appearance but can also lead to further damage to the interior if not addressed promptly.
- Variable Valve Timing Solenoid Failure: The variable valve timing solenoids in the Lexus GS300 can fail, leading to a sudden loss of power. This issue can be resolved by replacing the faulty solenoid, which is a relatively inexpensive part.
- Sensor Replacement: The Lexus GS300 may require occasional sensor replacement, such as O2 sensors or the MAF sensor, which can fail prematurely. These sensors are typically easy to locate and replace, but the cost of replacement can vary depending on the part and labor costs.
In summary, while the Lexus GS300 is generally considered a reliable vehicle, older models like the 1996 version can experience common problems such as brake actuator failure, faulty starters, power steering pump leaks, window trim separation, seat seam unthreading, wood veneer cracks, variable valve timing solenoid failure, and sensor replacement. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to more significant safety concerns, and it is essential for owners to address them promptly to ensure the vehicle's continued safe operation.
How long do Lexus GS engines last?
Its a TMC product, it will outlast you given the proper care. You can easily get 300,000 miles. Keep the fluids changed regularly.
Is the GS300 2JZ reliable?
It is a 3.0-liter inline-six engine known for its robustness, smooth power delivery, and impressive torque. It can produce ample power, making it suitable for both spirited driving and daily commuting. Reliability: The 2JZ engine has gained a reputation for its exceptional reliability.
Why did Lexus stop making the GS model?
Lexus said the decline in sedan sales is to blame for the GS' death and underscored the car's been a very small mix of the brand's sedan sales overall.
What engine does a 1996 Lexus GS300 have?
3.0 L 6-cylinder1996 Lexus GS 300 / Engine
1996 Lexus Gs complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Lexus Gs.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Lexus Gs problems:
1996 ES300 common problems? - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...
ES - 1st to 4th Gen (1990-2006) - 1996 ES300 common problems? - I'm about to buy a 1996 Lexus ES300. This would be my first car.
Gs300 Common Faults - Lexus GS 300 / Lexus GS 250 / Lexus GS ...
May 20, 2006 ... I would like to know if there is a list of common faults with the later '96-'97 Mk1 or anything that a seller might typically try to hide on ...
older gs300 reliability questions - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...
Dec 23, 2006 ... As far as things to look for when purchasing, the leaky power steering pump is what I find most common. The outside window trims tend to ...
2001 Lexus GS300 Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
Problem with your 2001 Lexus GS300? Our list of 5 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2001 Lexus GS300.
First-gen common issues? - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion
GS - 1st Gen (1993-1997) - First-gen common issues? - Hello! New user here, I recently took ownership of a 1996 GS300.
Other years of Lexus Gs
Are you having problems with your 1996 Lexus Gs?
Leave your review of 1996 Lexus Gs