1998 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.
Social links
Common 1998 Lexus Gs300 problems
The Lexus GS300, produced from 1998 to 2005, is known for its luxurious interior and powerful inline-six engine. However, like any vehicle, it has its fair share of common problems and issues that owners have reported over the years.
One of the most frequently reported problems with the Lexus GS300 is engine sludge buildup, which can lead to engine failure. The sludge buildup is caused by a lack of proper maintenance, such as not changing the oil regularly or using the wrong type of oil. This can cause the engine to seize up and fail, which is a major repair that can cost thousands of dollars to fix.
Another common problem with the Lexus GS300 is transmission jerks when shifting, which is most commonly reported in the 2006 model year. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a worn-out torque converter, a faulty transmission solenoid, or low transmission fluid levels. This problem can make the car difficult to drive and can cause further damage to the transmission if not addressed promptly.
The Lexus GS300 is also known for its faulty door lock actuators, which can be a significant issue for owners. This problem is caused by the actuator's motor or gears wearing out over time, which can cause the door to not lock or unlock properly. This issue can be expensive to fix, especially if the problem is caused by electrical gremlins that are difficult to diagnose.
Another common issue with the Lexus GS300 is variable valve timing solenoid failure. This problem can cause the car to suddenly lose power, which can be dangerous if it occurs while driving. The solenoid is located on top of the engine and is relatively easy to replace, but it can be expensive if not caught early.
The GS300 also suffers from starter motor issues, which can be a significant problem for owners. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a faulty starter motor, a worn-out solenoid, or a damaged electrical connection. This problem can be expensive to fix, especially if the starter motor needs to be replaced.
Finally, the Lexus GS300 is known for its high-pressure nitrogen accumulator and pump braking system, which can be a significant issue for owners. This system is designed to provide the necessary braking effort, but if anything goes wrong within any one of these units, the whole unit needs to be replaced, which can be expensive.
In conclusion, the Lexus GS300 is a luxurious and powerful vehicle, but like any car, it has its fair share of common problems and issues. Owners have reported engine sludge buildup, transmission jerks when shifting, faulty door lock actuators, variable valve timing solenoid failure, starter motor issues, and high-pressure nitrogen accumulator and pump braking system problems. These issues can be expensive to fix, but with proper maintenance and regular inspections, many of these problems can be prevented or caught early, saving owners time and money in the long run.
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.
Does the 1998 Lexus GS300 have a 2JZ?
Compared to modern-day cars, I would say the GS300 is completely different in its own way. It's got some unique stuff that even surprises my friends. What also attracted me to this car is the engine, a naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE.
How much does it cost to maintain a GS300?
The annual maintenance cost of a Lexus GS300 is $434.
Why won't my 98 Lexus GS300 start?
The most common reasons a Lexus GS300 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
1998 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:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Suspension problems
- Tires problems
- Service brakes problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Lexus Gs300 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Lexus Gs300
The NHTSA has received 69 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Lexus Gs300. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Lexus Gs300 vehicles.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-09
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS300 EQUIPPED WITH DEXTERO TOURING DTR1 TIRES, SIZE: 21560R16 95H (NA). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE WHILE DRIVING. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE TWO FRONT TIRE SIDEWALLS WERE CRACKED FROM THE INSIDE. THE CONTACT PURCHASED THE TIRES AT WALMART. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE TIRES AT HIS OWN EXPENSE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE TIRE AND VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 235,000. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-17
- VIN: JT8BD68S0W0
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: PURCHASED A 98 GS300 SIX MONTHS AGO AND MY VSC, ABS, BRAKE LIGHT AND CHECK ENGINE WARNING GAUGES CAME UP AND WILL NOT GO AWAY. DID SOME RESEARCH AND FOUND OUT THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER, THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR AND THROTTLE POSITION ACTUATOR WERE THE PROBLEMS. WITH THESE FEW ITEMS GONE BAD MY CAR PRODUCES LITTLE TO NO POWER DURING ACCELERATION. THE CAR BARELY GETS UP TO 45 MPH WITH ACCELERATION PEDAL ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE FLOOR. WITH THE VSC GONE BAD THERE IS AN ALARM THAT STRETCHES TO UNCOMFORTABLE HEARING LEVELS THAT' HURTS LIKE THE DEVIL. MY CAR WILL LITERALLY STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF CRUISING AND WON'T PICK UP ANY SPEED UNLESS I HAVE MY FOOT PEDAL ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE FLOOR, WHICH ALSO OFTEN TIMES CAUSES IT TO TURN OFF ON HIGHWAYS, ALL TYPES OF STREETS AND OTHER AREAS. ALSO WITH THESE ITEMS GONE BAD MY CAR SHIFTS SO HARD TO THE POINT WHERE IT JUMPS WHENEVER I SHIFT INTO ANY POSITION. ALL IN ALL THE VEHICLE, I FEEL , IS TOO DANGEROUS TO DRIVE AT THIS TIME
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-22
- VIN: JT8BD68S5W0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: I WAS GOING TO GO TO WORK, AN WHEN I STARTED TO PUSH ON THE THOTTHLE/ GAS PEDAL . NOTHING ENGAGED AN THEN ALL OF SUDDEN IT WORKED LIKE IT WAS BACK TO RUNNING NORMAL FOR LIKE 10 SECONDS THEN LOST ALMOST ALL THE POWER AN YOU CAN PUSH THE PADEL TO THE FLOOR ALMOST BEFOR IT WILL EVEN ENGAGE. IT'S MY EVERYDAY DRIVING CAR IT NOT SAFE TO BE DRIVING, WHEN IT'S MALFUNCTIONING IN THE ECU, VSC , CRUISE CONTROL QUIT BECAUSE OF WHAT HAPPENED. THERE A RECALL ON THE VSC FOR THE LEXUS GS 300 FOR HAVING MALFUNCTION PROBLEMS. BUT IT ONLY LET'S THE YOU USE ONLY THE LAST 25 PERCENT OF THE GAS PADEL, IT DON'T DO ANYTHING IN TILL ALMOST TO THE FLOOR. THIS HAPPENED IN BROOKVILLE PENNSYLVANIA, WHEN I WAS TURING LEFT ON TO ROUTE 36 SOUTH. I ALSO HAD TO REPLACE MY THOTTLE BODY BECAUSE WHEN THIS ALL HAPPENED, MY THOTTLE IT WAS STUCK IN WIDE OPEN THOTTLE. IT WAS VERY DANGEROUS IT COULD HAVE EASILY PUT OTHERS CITIZENS AN MY LIFE IN DANGER, WITCH COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURIES, OR IN A WORSE CASE DEATH. I'M FILLING OUT THIS FOAM IN REGARDS OF A RECALL, TO FIX OR REPLACE THE ECU, VSC , CRUSE CONTROL .
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-19
- VIN: JT8BD68S5W0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I PURCHASED A VEHICLE OFF THE STREETS AND HAD NO CLUE ON HOW THE SYSTEM WORKS WHEN PURCHASING A SALVAGED VEHICLE THAT HAD BEEN IN A AUCTION AFTER A WRECKLESS ACCIDENT. HAD A MASTER CYLINDER MALFUNCTION THAT GOT FIXED BY NOT A LEXUS PROFESSIONAL MECHANIC DUE TO BUDGET REASONS. RECEIVED A CHECK FOR AROUND $20.00 FOR THE RECALL ON THE GAS PEDAL GETTING STUCK AROUND 3 YRS. AGO. NO LONGER HAVE POSSEION OF MY LICENSE # PLATE OR VEHICLE. I THINK VIN # WAS A SCAM.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-24
- VIN: JT8BD68SXW0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS300. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE INADVERTENTLY ACCELERATED WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS RELEASED. THE VEHICLE FINALLY STOPPED AFTER SEVERAL MINUTES OF DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE ISSUE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES IN ONE DAY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 112,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-02
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS300. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK IN A RESIDENTIAL DRIVEWAY, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO JERK AND ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SAFE TO DRIVE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 97,400.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-05
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 GS300. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE RPMS RAPIDLY INCREASED AND THE VEHICLE ERRONEOUSLY ACCELERATED. THE VEHICLE WAS MOVED TO THE SHOULDER TO BE SHUT DOWN THEN RESTARTED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CAUSED BY A FAULTY THROTTLE BODY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 240,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-19
- VIN: JT8BD68S1W0
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS300. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED THE CHECK ENGINE AND THE VSC WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE WHILE DEPRESSING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTICS. THE MECHANIC STATED THE THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. AFTER THE REPAIR THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC REPLACED THE FRONT AND REAR THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR. THE FAILURE CONTINUED AFTER THE REPAIR. THERE WAS A RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 98V080000 (SUSPENSION:AUTOMATIC STABILITY CONTROL (ASC)). THE CONTACT WAS UNAWARE IF THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER THE RECALL BY THE PREVIOUS OWNER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 112,000. ...UPDATED 08-15-12 *BF UPDATED 08/21/12
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-07
- VIN: JT8BD68S1W0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS300. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH AND TRYING TO ACCELERATE THE SPEED FAILED TO INCREASE. THE FAILURE MADE IT DIFFICULT FOR THE CONTACT TO EXIT THE HIGHWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED BY A DEALER NOR HAD IT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 160,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-04
- VIN: JT8BD68S9W0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS300. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN DRIVING BETWEEN 30-40 MPH, THE VEHICLE WOULD BEGIN TO LOOSE POWER AND STALL SPORADICALLY WITH THE ILLUMINATION OF THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 190,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 192,380. UPDATED 02/09/12*LJ THE DEALER FOUND THE THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR WAS OUT OF SPECIFICATION AND THERE WAS AN OPEN CIRCUIT. UPDATED 02/27/12
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-18
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS300. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN THE PASSENGER SIDE TIRE SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL MECHANIC, BUT THE FAILURE WAS NOT REMEDIED. THE DEALER NOR MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 135,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8BD68S0W0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS300. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO APPLY THE BRAKES, THE VEHICLE DID NOT SLOW DOWN AND CRASHED INTO A WALL. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO STATED THAT THE MASTER CYLINDER FAILED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 111,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-03
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS 300. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME STUCK AND IT WAS DIFFICULT TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE. THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE SEPARATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIR. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 186,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-10
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS300. THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY BEGAN TO SLOW DOWN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS ILLUMINATED WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO HIS RESIDENCE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 167,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-19
- VIN: JT8BD68S5W0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: REFERRING TO A 1998 LEXUS GS300, REAR WHEEL DRIVE CAR WITH 84,000 MILES. ON SATURDAY, JUNE 19, 2010, I WAS COMING TO A STOP AT AN INTERSECTION WITH A 2 WAY STOP SIGN, WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE. MY CAR AFTER SLOWING DOWN A BIT, SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, ALMOST RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT AS I 'CRUISED' ACROSS THE INTERSECTION INSTEAD OF STOPPING. I CALLED LEXUS AND THEY ADVISED THAT I BRING THE CAR IN. I DROVE THERE ABOUT 15 MILES, AND ON THE WAY THERE I STOPPED ABOUT 100 FEET BEHIND ANOTHER CAR WHICH WAS STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT. I WAS AT A TOTAL STOP, MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE, AND THE CAR SUDDENLY LUNGED FORWARD. THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT BECAUSE I WAS SO FAR BEHIND THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. I DROVE TO LEXUS. THEY EXAMINED THE CAR AND TOLD ME THEY FOUND NOTHING WRONG, INCLUDING WITH THE COMPUTER. THEY THEN TOOK ME FOR A DRIVE, PERHAPS 20 OR 30 MINUTES, STOPPING AND STARTING, AND THE PROBLEM COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. I WAS TOO AFRAID TO DRIVE THE CAR AWAY AS THIS SUDDEN ACCELERATION HAPPENED TWICE THAT MORNING, SO I BOUGHT A NEW CAR ON THE SPOT. I WAS OF THE UNDERSTANDING THAT THE PROBLEM OF SUDDEN ACCELERATION DID NOT INVOLVE THE GS SERIES. LEXUS DID ALLOW MY GS300 AS A TRADE-IN. BOTH TIMES WHEN THE CAR ACCELERATED, I HAD NO DISTRACTIONS AND AM CERTAIN THAT THIS DESCRIPTION IS ABSOLUTELY ACCURATE. ALSO, I HAD ONLY THE ORIGINAL MATS IN THE CAR AND THEY WERE SET PROPERLY WITH THE HOOKS THROUGH THEM AS THEY SHOULD BE. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-24
- Crash: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WAS ON THE FREEWAY DRIVING ABOUT 60 MILES PER HOUR, HIT A POT HOLE, CAR DROPPED APPARENTLY THE BALL JOINT BROKE ON THE RIGHT SIDE. BUT THIS HAPPENED ON THE LEFT SIDE A FEW MONTHS AGO IN DECEMBER. THAT TIME I WAS NOT ON THE FREEWAY. AFTER RESEARCHING ON LINE I SAW THAT PREVIOUS MODELS HAD BEEN RECALLED FOR THIS PROBLEM BUT NOT THE 1998. AFTER THE INCIDENT IN DECEMBER AND THE DAMAGE WAS CORRECTED, I TOOK MY CAR TO MY MECHANIC AND HE CHECKED IT OUT MADE SOME ADJUSTMENTS, THEN IT HAPPENS AGAIN. I'M AFRAID SOMEONE COULD GET KILLED, LUCKILY I DIDN'T, ESPECIALLY THE SECOND TIME WHEN I WAS ON THE FREEWAY. WHY WOULD THIS HAPPEN, I ALWAYS THOUGHT A LEXUS WAS A VERY DEPENDABLE CAR.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-19
- VIN: JT8BD68S4W0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN AT A STOP SIGN OR RED LIGHT, WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE CAR ACCELERATES. I PRESS ON THE BRAKE PEDAL AND, USUALLY, THE ACCELERATION SLOWS DOWN. THIS HAPPENED 3 TIMES IN 2 DAYS AND THE THIRD TIME THE ACCELERATION DID NOT STOP, THE CAR REALLY ACCELERATED, I PRESSED ON THE BRAKE PEDAL AS HARD AS I COULD AND THE REAR TIRES WERE SMOKING SO I TURNED OFF THE KEY. THE DEALER HAD THE CAR FOR A WEEK AND COULD FIND NO PROBLEM. BEFORE I GOT THE CAR BACK INTO MY GARAGE, IT HAPPENED AGAIN BUT NOT TOO BADLY. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-18
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS300. WHILE DRIVING LESS THAN 20 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD POPPING SOUND. THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE RIGHT WITH TREMENDOUS FORCE. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO MANEUVER THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD AND ATTEMPTED TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER; HOWEVER, THE TOW COMPANY WAS UNCOMFORTABLE WITH TOWING IN FEAR THAT THEY WOULD CAUSE MORE DAMAGE. IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE LOWER BALL JOINTS WERE HANGING FROM THE VEHICLE AND PUNCTURED THE RIM. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE LESS THAN 170,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-18
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 98 LEXUS GS300LOWER BALL JOINT DISLOCATED ITSELF WHILE DRIVING AT 20MPH ON CITY STREETS. LUCKILY IT WASN'T ON THE HIGHWAY. CALLED A TOWING COMPANY, AND THEY REFUSED TO TOW THE LEXUS GS300 SINCE IT COULD CAUSE MORE DAMAGE. DURING THE WHOLE ORDEAL, THE LOWER BALL JOINT PUNCTURE THE ORIGINAL LEXUS 16INCH WHEEL. A HOLE IS VISIBLE AND THE DISLOCATED BALL JOINT SITS ON THE WHEEL CLOSE THE EDGE. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-22
- VIN: JT8BD68S1W0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS300. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE SKIDDED TO A STOP WITHOUT WARNING. THE FENDER, TIRE, AND UNDERCARRIAGE OF THE VEHICLE WERE DAMAGED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE LOWER BALL JOINT SNAPPED. THE CONTACT IS EXPERIENCING THE SAME FAILURE AS STATED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 99V125000 (SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT) FOR THE 1995-1997 LEXUS GS300. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 100,000. UPDATED 02/14/08. *LJ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-05
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT8BD68S2W0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS300. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE ATTEMPTED TO SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF, BUT IT WOULD NOT RESPOND. THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO RUN EVEN AFTER THE KEY WAS REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION. THE VEHICLE THEN CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE AND FILED A REPORT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, BUT THEY HAVE NOT DETERMINED WHAT WILL BE DONE ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 37,000. THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER INSTALLED A NEW BATTERY AND BELT ON APRIL 16, 2006, THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY THINK IT WAS THE CONSUMER'S STARTER. UPDATED 09/28/07 *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-03
- VIN: JT8BD68S4W0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WE OWN A 1998 LEXUS, MODEL GS 300. THIS SATURDAY MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THE LEXUS AND THE ENTIRE WHEEL ASSEMBLY CAME OFF THE VEHICLE DUE THE FAILURE OF THE LOWER BALL JOINT. IN REVIEWING RECALL INFORMATION FOR LEXUS\TOYOTA, IT IS VERY APPARENT THERE IS AN ONGOING ISSUE OF QUALITY CONTROL RELATED TO THEIR LOWER BALL JOINTS. FOR OUR SPECIFIC MODEL, THERE WAS A RECALL IN 93, 94, 95, 96 AND 97 SPECIFIC TO THIS PART. GIVEN WE HAVE A 98 AND A RECALL HAS NOT BEEN ISSUED (YET), THE LEXUS DEALERSHIP REFUSED TO PROVIDE US WITH ANY ACCOMMODATION TOWARDS FIXING THE FAILED PART, OR THE RESULTING BODY DAMAGE RELATED TO THE VEHICLE TRAVELING DOWN THE ROAD ON ONLY THREE WHEEL. FORTUNATELY, WE WERE NOT TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY, BUT A SIDE STREET WHEN THIS INCIDENT OCCURRED. BUT MOREOVER, REGARDLESS OF OUR FINANCIAL LOSS, IN MY OPINION, THIS IS A PUBLIC SAFETY CONCERN. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-24
- VIN: JT8BD68S4W0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE "VSC" AND THE "VSC OFF" LIGHTS BOTH TURN ON AT THE SAME TIME, AND THE ENGINE SUDDENLY COME TO IDLE AND THE CAR SLOWLY COME TO STOP RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FREEWAY WHEN I AM DRIVING AT 65 MPH ON THE FREEWAY. *NM
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-09
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8BD68S0W0
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL
- Summary: TL* - THE CONTACT CALLED STATING THAT SHE HAD A CRASH ON 07/09/06 IN HER 1998 LEXUS GS300. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE LOST CONTROL OF HE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING AT ABOUT 55 MPH. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRYING TO MOVE INTO THE RIGHT LANE THE VEHICLE STARTING GOING BACK AND FORTH ACROSS THE ROAD AND THE POWER STEERING FAILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THIS WAS ON A CLEAR NIGHT AND, THAT WHEN SHE APPLIED THE BRAKES THE VEHICLE WAS MORE DIFFICULT TO STEER. THE VEHICLE ALSO SEEMED TO ACCELERATE. THERE WAS A POLICE REPORT MADE THAT STATES SHE LOST CONTROL OF VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BY ARISTOCRAT TOWING TO ARISTOCRAT AUTO SHOP. THE PASSENGER SEAT AIR BAG DIDN'T DEPLOY AND THE PASSENGER DIDN'T HAVE ON A SEAT BELT. THE CONTACT DID HAVE SEAT BELT ON BUT, DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DIDN'T DEPLOY. THERE WAS A RECALL WITH CAMPAIGN # 98V080000, AND SHE CONTACTED LEXUS THAT HER VEHICLE WAS NOT PART OF THIS RECALL.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-09
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8BD68S0W0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS,TIRES
- Summary: I WAS RECENTLY IN A CAR ACCIDENT ON JULY 9, 2006 AT 3:30 AM. THE CAR WENT OUT OF CONTROL. ALL FOUR TIRES WERE FLAT, MY ABS SYSTEM DIDN'T WORK AND MY AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY. MYSELF AND ANOTHER PASSENGER WAS HURT VERY BADLY. *JB
1998 Lexus Gs300 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1998 Lexus Gs300.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR CO., LTD.
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL:AUTOMATIC (ASC)
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO A MANUFACTURING DEFECT OF THE YAW RATE SENSOR FOR THE VEHICLE STABILITY CONTROL (VSC), THE VSC CAN OPERATE IMPROPERLY IF THE SENSOR IS AFFECTED BY CERTAIN ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES, SUCH AS FROM A CELLULAR PHONE.
- Consequence: SHOULD THIS OCCUR, THE BRAKE MAY OPERATE UNEXPECTEDLY, AFFECTING STEERING AND SPEED CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE YAW RATE SENSOR.
Positive 1998 Lexus Gs300 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Lexus Gs300 problems:
98-00 GS300 Common Issues? - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...
Apr 21, 2006 ... GS - 2nd Gen (1998-2005) - 98-00 GS300 Common Issues? - I'm looking a picking up a GS300 and I was hoping I could get some pointers at ...
1998 Lexus GS300 Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
Top 1998 Lexus GS300 Problems · Check Engine LIght With Code P0135, P0141, P0155, or P0161. 59 people have reported this · Check Engine Light Due to EVAP System ...
1998 GS300 with 155k miles, should I buy it? : r/Lexus
Sep 27, 2023 ... Other than that my question is more focused on the mechanical reliability or common problem with high mileage GS300, considering also that is a ...
98-02 Gs300 Any Known Problems? - 93 - 05 Lexus GS300 / GS400 ...
Dec 5, 2007 ... Door lock actuators are very prone to failure. If the car is lowered you need to be carefull of the balljoints. Other than that I aggree I ...
Common Problems On Gs300, 1999 - Lexus Owners Club
May 2, 2007 ... Hi Everyone I'm new to all this, and never had an executive car before. Am thinking of buying a Lexus GS300, about 1998, 1999 (is that the ...
Other years of Lexus Gs300
Are you having problems with your 1998 Lexus Gs300?
Jordon Orn 2025-01-02
This '98 vehicle has been an excellent purchase since '03, with only minor replacements such as tires and turn signal bulbs. Its outstanding appearance and features can compete with most '05 vehicles, surprising everyone who sees it. The wonderful styling and smooth transmission make it a pleasure to drive, although it can be easy to exceed the speed limit. While it may not have the best gas mileage or perform well in the snow, overall, we have been extremely satisfied with this vehicle. In fact, we would love to upgrade to an '06!
Maxwell Funk 2024-10-14
The combination of luxury and performance is truly unbelievable. This vehicle provides the driver with an incredibly enjoyable and satisfying experience. I've owned and driven many different types of vehicles in my lifetime, but without a doubt, this is the best vehicle I have ever driven or owned.
Jaylin Dicki 2024-10-12
I've always wanted a '98 GS since they first hit the road. I was holding out for a GS 400 to get the V8 and the better 0-60 time, but I decided that the GS300 had plenty of power for my needs. I've had the car for a year now and I am very pleased with it. Knowing what I know now, I would still have made the purchase. The car is very reliable and the service dealer is fantastic. I do wish the car got a few more miles per gallon around town than it does (about 17-18). Also, it's recommended that the GS use premium gas, which makes the $/mile higher. But hey, if I wanted low $/mile I would have gotten a Honda Civic or Toyota Matrix. Anyway, I give two thumbs up for the GS300.
Denis Bailey 2024-09-02
I'm so glad to hear that you've owned this car since it was new! It sounds like it's been a lot of fun and incredibly reliable. Plus, it's quick and stable, with excellent brakes. What more could you ask for?
Nick Hudson 2024-07-09
This car is really awesome and I would definitely recommend it to anyone, especially if they're currently driving a different car. Once you try this car for at least a day, you won't want to go back...trust me!