1993 Lexus Gs300 problems

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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.

1993 Lexus Gs300

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Common 1993 Lexus Gs300 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Lexus GS300 1993, several common problems have been reported:

  1. Engine Misfire:
    • Engine misfires can occur due to various reasons such as faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors. Symptoms include rough idling, loss of power, and poor fuel economy.
  2. Transmission Issues:
    • Transmission problems in the Lexus GS300 can manifest as difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, or unusual noises during gear changes. This can lead to serious drivability issues and should be addressed promptly.
  3. Suspension Problems:
    • Suspension issues may include worn-out shocks or struts, leading to a bumpy ride, uneven tire wear, and poor handling. Addressing suspension problems is crucial for safety and comfort while driving.
  4. Fuel System Issues:
    • Common fuel system problems in the Lexus GS300 include a failing fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or faulty fuel injectors. Symptoms may include reduced fuel economy, engine misfires, and difficulty starting the engine.
  5. Check Engine Light:
    • The check engine light can illuminate due to various issues like a faulty oxygen sensor, loose gas cap, or engine misfire. It serves as an indicator of underlying problems that need attention.
  6. Electrical Problems:
    • Electrical issues can range from malfunctioning lights, broken window buttons, to dim dashboard displays. These problems can affect the overall functionality and safety of the vehicle.
  7. Oil Sludge Build-Up:
    • Oil sludge accumulation can lead to engine damage and reduced performance. Regular oil changes and proper maintenance are essential to prevent this issue.
  8. Power Steering Leaks:
    • Power steering leaks can result in difficulty steering, noise when turning the wheel, or low power steering fluid levels. Addressing leaks promptly is crucial to maintain steering functionality.
  9. Brake System Issues:
    • Brake system problems can include worn brake pads, brake fluid leaks, or issues with the brake calipers. Maintaining the brake system is vital for safe driving and stopping power.

These common problems with the Lexus GS300 1993 highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and thorough inspections to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.

1993 Lexus Gs300 engine

Is Lexus GS300 reliable?

most reliable car engine you can have

The GS300 has the glorified 2JZ inline 6 cylinder engine. It will last you as long as you want if you are smart. Currently driving one with over 310,000 miles and commonly run into 2JZ owners with even more and still going strong.

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.

How many miles per gallon does a 1993 GS 300 get?

Fuel consumption was reasonable at 22 miles per gallon on a trip from Miami to Orlando. In the city, the GS 300 returned 16 mpg of premium unleaded. Lexus engineers ripped a page out the BMW bible of high-performance suspension systems when they created the GS 300.

How much does it cost to maintain a GS 300?

The annual maintenance cost of a Lexus GS300 is $434.

1993 Lexus Gs300 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Gs300 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Fuel system problems
  • Visibility problems
  • Steering problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Lexus Gs300 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1993 Lexus Gs300 complaints

The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1993 Lexus Gs300.

2004-12-01

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-04-22
  • VIN: JT8JS47E9P0
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: THE FUEL TANK WAS LEAKING FUEL INSIDE THE VEHICLE'S TRUNK. THE CONSUMER COULD SMELL GAS FUMES WHILE DRIVING/PARKED. THE DEALERSHIP WILL BE NOTIFIED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *NM THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE FUMES BECAME SO BAD THEY HAD TO DRIVE WITH THE WINDOWS DOWN. THE GAS TANK BEGAN LEAKING AND HAD TO BE REPLACED. *TC
2004-05-23

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-05-22
  • VIN: JT8JS47E9P0
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
  • Summary: WE HAVE A 1993 LEXUS GS 300. IT TOOK US SEVERAL DAYS BUT WE FINALLY FIGURED OUT WHERE THE GAS SMELL WAS COMING FROM. THERE IS A LEAK IN THE GAS TANK.*AK
2002-12-06

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-11-05
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY. DT
2001-08-15

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-07-01
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: MANUFACTURERE REP. CORRECT THE PROBLEM. NO SAFETY DEFECT MENTIONED. *AK
2000-08-07

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-11-01
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: IN WARM WEATHER STEERING MAKES GRINDING NOISE, POSSIBLY IT AFFECTS THE PERFORMANCE OF STEERING. *ET
2000-07-13

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JT8JS47E4P0
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: IN WARM WEATHER STEERING WILL MAKES A GRINDING NOISE, POSSIBLY AFFECTING THE PERFORMANCE OF STEERING. *AK *ML
1996-11-14

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-11-03
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING 65MPH ON HIGHWAY, VEHICLE GOT INTO AN ACCIDENT THERE WAS NO DEPLOYMENT OF AIRBAG , ALSO VEHICLE ROLLED OVER SEVERAL TIMES AFTER IMPACT, STILL NO DEPLOYMENT. *AK

1993 Lexus Gs300 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1993 Lexus Gs300.

1995-04-03
  • Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR CO., LTD.
  • Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
  • Summary: THE SPHERICAL PORTIONS OF CERTAIN LOWER BALL JOINTS HAD FINISHED SURFACES THAT WERE NOT SMOOTH CAUSING FRICTION WITH THE SURFACE OF THE BALL JOINT CAP.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN LEAD TO SEPARATION OF THE BALLJOINT INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LOWER BALL JOINTS ON THE AFFECTED VEHICLES.

Negative 1993 Lexus Gs300 car reviews

  1. Stephon Yost 2024-06-03

    I am disappointed with the resale value of this car. Despite owning it for only a year, I lost a significant amount of money due to the difficulty of finding a private buyer. Unfortunately, there is no market for used Lexus cars in my area. This experience has taught me to avoid purchasing a Lexus in the future, as I now understand the challenges of selling it and the significant loss in value.

Positive 1993 Lexus Gs300 car reviews

  1. Dario Doyle 2024-10-09

    Excellent! The car boasts long-lasting quality throughout. At current used prices, a '93 or '94 GS300 offers excellent touring comforts and potential for many more years of trouble-free service at a price lower than even the cheapest compacts. Although the car looks great, the 220 hp inline 6 isn't a road burner. It's too bad there wasn't a manual transmission option.

  2. Raleigh Tremblay 2024-10-09

    Having owned numerous different cars in the past, I must say that this is the best car I've ever owned. It's incredibly reliable and comfortable. Despite being quite heavy, it handles and accelerates great. You really can't go wrong with a Lexus.

  3. Lewis Wehner 2024-05-19

    It sounds like you've had a great experience with your car! It's always frustrating when a new car gives you trouble, but it's great to hear that this one has been reliable for you.

  4. Vito Koss 2024-04-05

    Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it brand new back in '93 and I have to say, I enjoy it even more now than when I first got it! I've taken great care of it over the years, making sure to keep up with all the recommended maintenance, including replacing the timing belts twice and getting ready for my third replacement soon. The only things I've had to replace were the power steering unit and brake calipers. Currently, the only things not functioning are my coffee cup holder, dashboard lights, and radio. I always make sure to fix any door dings right away and I even resurfaced the front seats, which still have no cracks in them! It's amazing to me that my car is 14 years old and has 293,000 miles on it, yet it still only uses a quart of oil every 3,000 miles. I'm definitely sold on the Lexus brand and will be buying another one when the time comes!

  5. Sherman Pfeffer 2024-04-02

    Wow, your car is amazing! It's so impressive that you've managed to keep it running for so long, with only two repairs outside of regular maintenance. I can tell that you really take care of it. I love the classic look of your car, and it sounds like it's still going strong. It's great to hear that you're so happy with it, and I totally agree that more cup holders would be a nice addition. Thanks for sharing your story!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1993 Lexus Gs300 problems:

older gs300 reliability questions - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...
older gs300 reliability questions - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-1st-gen-1993-1997/255552-older-gs300-reliability-questions.html

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 ...

Gs300 Problem Almost All Electrical - 93 - 05 Lexus GS300 / GS400 ...
Gs300 Problem Almost All Electrical - 93 - 05 Lexus GS300 / GS400 ...
https://us.lexusownersclub.com/forums/topic/59503-gs300-problem-almost-all-electrical/

Aug 12, 2009 ... The radio screen, which is fairly easy to fix (search these forums) is the other thing that happens to be common. When the screen is replaced ...

93 Lexus GS300 Issues - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion
93 Lexus GS300 Issues - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-1st-gen-1993-1997/463637-93-lexus-gs300-issues.html

Nov 10, 2009 ... 1. when I hit the brakes hard of soft. The front drivers wheel shifts backwards making a loud clunk. 2. My brake light is on but I do not have ...

2001 Lexus GS300 Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
2001 Lexus GS300 Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2001-lexus-gs300/problems

Problem with your 2001 Lexus GS300? Our list of 5 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2001 Lexus GS300.

All my crazy Lexus issues SOLVED!! (ECU-leaking capacitor ...
All my crazy Lexus issues SOLVED!! (ECU-leaking capacitor ...
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-1st-and-2nd-gen-1990-2000/656360-all-my-crazy-lexus-issues-solved-ecu-leaking-capacitor.html

Sep 20, 2012 ... ○ Lexus LS400 - 1990-2000 (in 1997 and earlier models, the problem is extremely common) ... ○ Lexus GS300 - 1993-1996 ○ Toyota Celica ...

Other years of Lexus Gs300

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Gs300 1994
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Gs300 1995
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lexus gs300 1996 photo
Gs300 1996
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lexus gs300 1998 photo
Gs300 1998
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lexus gs300 1999 photo
Gs300 1999
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lexus gs300 2000 photo
Gs300 2000
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1993 Lexus Gs300 photo