1994 Lexus Gs300 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.
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Common 1994 Lexus Gs300 problems
The Lexus GS300, produced from 1993 to 2000, is known for its reliability and performance. However, there are some common problems that owners have reported, particularly in the 1994 model year.
One of the most common issues is with the lower ball joints (LBJs). The LBJs are a critical part of the suspension system, and when they fail, they can cause a squeaking sound from the wheels when driving. If left unresolved, they can fail completely, causing the wheel to become trapped in the fender and potentially leading to dangerous situations, especially at highway speeds. It is recommended to check the LBJs regularly and listen for any potential sounds.
The 1994 Lexus GS300 also has some common issues with the transmission. The transmission can only handle about 325 rwhp before the rev limiter is reached, and there are trans upgrades available to address this issue.
The outside window trims can also separate after a number of years, which can be a costly repair.
Some owners have reported that the GS300 can be expensive to maintain and repair, with high service and parts costs. It is recommended to find a reputable independent mechanic if you are worried about repair costs.
In summary, the Lexus GS300 is a reliable and high-performing vehicle, but like any car, it can have some common issues. Regular maintenance and checks can help prevent some of these issues, and it is important to find a reputable mechanic to address any repairs that may be needed.
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 much does it cost to maintain a GS300?
The annual maintenance cost of a Lexus GS300 is $434.
Why does my GS300 keep shutting off?
The most common reasons a Lexus GS300 engine stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
1994 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:
- Suspension problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Lexus Gs300 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1994 Lexus Gs300 complaints
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Lexus Gs300.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-25
- VIN: JT8JS47E1R0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: VEHICLE STARTED LEANING CLOSURE TO THE DRIVER FRONT SIDE. THOUGHT IT WAS THE BRAKES HAD THE VEHICLE INSPECTED AND IT WAS THE LOWER CONTROL ARM, THE BALL JOINTS, THE STEEL WHEEL WAS DAMAGED BECAUSE OF THE LOWER CONTROL AMONG OTHER THINGS THAT AFFECT THE SUSPENSION OF A VEHICLE. OVER THE VEHICLE IS NO LONGER DRIVEABLE. *JS
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-18
- VIN: JT8JS47E9R0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 LEXUS GS300. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED AND ATTEMPTING TO ENGAGE THE BRAKES, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY. ALSO, WHILE PARKED, THERE WAS A SUDDEN INCREASE IN ENGINE RPMS. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE DEALER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 278,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8JS47E8R0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: SUDDEN ACCELERATION. I WAS DRIVING IT ON US-101 WESTBOUND BEFORE KANAN ROAD EXIT (~4 MILES BEFORE DESTINATION EXIT), SLOWED DOWN AND CHANGED ONE LANE TO MOST RIGHT LANE. THE CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL. I APPLIED THE BRAKES IMMEDIATELY. THE CAR TURNED TO THE LEFT, MADE A SPIN COUNTERCLOCKWISE AND TRAVELED FROM MOST OF THE RIGHT LANE TO MOST OF THE LEFT LANE. FINALLY, I GOT IT STOPPED IN THE LEFT LANE, AFTER ITS REAR HIT THE FREEWAY CENTER DIVIDER. IT WAS IN THE OPPOSITE TRAFFIC DIRECTION. FORTUNATELY, NO OTHER VEHICLE WAS HIT. THE CAR HAS SEVERE DAMAGE IN THE REAR BUMPER, TRUNK, 2 REAR SIDE BODY, RIGHT FRONT WHEEL/TIRE AND SOME DAMAGE ON THE RIGHT SIDE BODY. IT'S NON-DRIVABLE, THOUGH ENGINE CAN STILL BE STARTED. ON 02/06/11, I WENT BACK, PASSING BY THE SCENE. THE TRACE OF BLACK TIRE RUBBER (DUE TO BRAKING) IS CLEARLY SEEN FROM MOST RIGHT LANE TO MOST LEFT LANE. UPDATED 03/10/11 *BF UPDATED PORTABLE 02/24/11 UPDATED PORTABLE 05/26/11
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-29
- VIN: JT8JS47E4R0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: LOWER LEFT FRONT BALL JOINT FAILED, AND WHEEL FELL ON ITS SIDE, DROPPING THE FRONT END OF THE CAR TO THE PAVEMENT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-01-11
- VIN: JT8JS47E640
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CONSUMER STARTED VEHICLE, DASHBOARD BECAME ILLUMINATED, AND VEHICLE LOST ALL ELECTRICAL POWER. CONSUMER WAS TRAPPED INSIDE VEHICLE. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED, PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-01
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEATBELT FEELS LIKE IT IS SECURE BUT IS NOT. IT COMES OUT. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-10-10
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: REAR WINDSHIELD EXPLODED, GLASS THROUGH OUT VEHICLE.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES THE CAR SLOWED DOWN AND THERE WAS SMOKE COMING FROM THE WHEELS. DEALER HAS SEEN TWICE, AND CAN'T FIND PROBLEM. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-04-01
- VIN: JT8GK13T3R0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: PROBLEMS WITH LEATHER SEAT CUSHIONS. *AK
1994 Lexus Gs300 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1994 Lexus Gs300.
- 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 1994 Lexus Gs300 car reviews
Positive 1994 Lexus Gs300 car reviews
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You've never had any major problems with your car, and it has outlasted every car you've ever owned. It drives and rides better than many newer vehicles you currently own.
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It sounds like you have a nice car, even though it may have had some issues. You received it from your brother 2 years ago at 55K and have since replaced the alternators, power steering pump, AC, windows cable, and radio antenna cable. Recently, the radiator went out, but despite these repairs, the car is still running well with 87K miles in just 2 years.
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The Italian-designed Toyota product is much better looking than anything else from Toyota... ever!
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I've owned my 94gs 300 since February 1996. With 293,000 miles on the clock, I can confidently say that this is the best car ever built. It boasts exceptional quality, luxury, and fuel economy, making it an excellent value for money. The ultra-smooth inline 6-engine, pioneered by Europeans, ensures a comfortable and fatigue-free driving experience, even on long journeys. This car was manufactured in Tahara, Japan, at a factory cost of roughly $32,000 and a selling price of $41,500. In my opinion, it's simply unbeatable. Even after all these years, my car still drives better than a $25,000 2005 model with fewer repairs. The brakes on this car last an impressive 50,000 miles, which speaks volumes about its reliability and durability. Need I say more?
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This has been such a fantastic vehicle for us. The reliability has been outstanding. It goes and goes without a complaint. I purchased the vehicle used with 40K miles on it and have driven it another 50K miles over the last 6 years. It's a very comfortable vehicle.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1994 Lexus Gs300 problems:
older gs300 reliability questions - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...
Dec 23, 2006 ... anyway, i'm starting to look into the V6 gs300s. this doesn't happen to be the same v6 they use in the camry, is it? are there any common issues ...
1994 Lexus GS300 - Car started wobbling at low speeds. thought it ...
Dec 14, 2012 ... Car started wobbling at low speeds. thought it was a tire problem. got new tires. 1994 Lexus GS300. Asked by stickman213 in Tampa, FL on ...
1993-1997 GS300 oil leak - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion
... engine block. The car's ... ago. Tags 1993, 1994, 1997, common, filter, gs, gs300, housing, leak, leakage, leaking, lexus, lx450, oil, problems.
Lexus GS300 Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Top Lexus GS300 Problems · Check Engine LIght With Code P0135, P0141, P0155, or P0161 · Check Engine Light Due to EVAP System Fault · Clunking noise from front ...
Gs300 Mk1 Central Locking Problem - Lexus GS 300 / Lexus GS ...
May 27, 2013 ... My 94 GS300 has developed a central locking problem as follows. Using either the remote or the key, when locking the door all door locks ...
Other years of Lexus Gs300
Are you having problems with your 1994 Lexus Gs300?
Keshaun Brekke 2024-05-16
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 the resale value is not worth the investment.
Buddy Osinski 2024-01-03
This car has unfortunately caused us a lot of trouble and expenses. Despite our efforts to maintain it properly, we have had to replace the water pump, radiator, timing, brakes, tires, two window motors, and deal with a major transmission problem. The check engine light is also on. We initially purchased the car for $6,200, but with all the repairs, it has cost us well over $10,000. However, we remain confident in our ability to handle any future issues that may arise.