2002 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 2002 Lexus Gs300 problems
The Lexus GS300, produced between 1998 and 2005, is known for its luxurious features and powerful engine. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues, based on search results:
- Ball Joint Wear: The GS300's ball joints, which connect the control arm to the steering knuckle, tend to wear out faster than in other cars. When a ball joint fails, the knuckle can separate from the control arm, causing handling issues. Replacing ball joints is a normal part of car maintenance, but the GS300's ball joints may need to be replaced more frequently than those in other vehicles.
- Door Lock Actuator Failure: The door lock actuators in the GS300 can fail, which can be expensive to fix if it involves chasing down electrical gremlins. However, the parts themselves are not expensive.
- Variable Valve Timing Solenoid Failure: The variable valve timing solenoids in the GS300 can fail, causing the car to suddenly lose power. The part is relatively cheap, but replacing it can be difficult because it is located underneath the engine cover.
- Sensor Replacement: The GS300 may require occasional sensor replacement, such as O2 sensors or the MAF sensor. These sensors are easy to locate, but replacing them can be expensive.
- Starter Motor Issues: The GS300's starter motor can cause issues, which can be expensive to fix because it is attached to the transmission. As the car ages, parts can come loose, causing rattling noises.
- Moisture in Headlights: Moisture can collect inside the GS300's headlights, which can be difficult and expensive to fix. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire headlight assembly.
- Engine Failure: Some GS300 owners have reported engine failure due to oil sludge buildup. This issue is more common in the 1998 model year and can be expensive to fix, with an average cost of $3,700.
It's important to note that these issues are based on owner complaints and may not be representative of all GS300s. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address these issues before they become major problems.
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 2002 Lexus GS300 have a 2JZ?
In Japan, this car's Aristo counterpart got 276 horses out of its turbocharged 2JZ. No manual transmission could be had in the 2002 GS (nor in the JDM Aristo and its Crown cousin), but at least the enforced automatic came with five forward speeds.
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.
2002 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
- Exterior lighting problems
- Tires problems
- Seat belts problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Lexus Gs300 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2002 Lexus Gs300 complaints
The NHTSA has received 19 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Lexus Gs300.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-16
- VIN: JT8BD69S420
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT FEED BROKEN LOOSE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-07
- VIN: JT8BD69SX20
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: CAR IS HESITANT TO SPEED OFF. POWER TO END DIES DOWN AND PICKS UP CONSTANTLY. CAR WILL SPEED UP AND SLOW UP DOWN ON ITS OWN. ENGINE LIGHT REMAINS ON NO MATTER THE WORK THAT IS DOWN. VPN LIGHT OFF. *TR
TIRES,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-13
- VIN: JT8BD69S120
- Components: TIRES,WHEELS
- Summary: GOODYEAR ASSURANCE TIRE: INNER SIDEWALL BLOWOUT WHILE PARKED. NO EXTERNAL CAUSE. TIRE IS 80,000 MILE TIRE WARRANTY, WITH 40,000 MILES USED AND HAS 6/32 TREAD DEPTH REMAINING. MAY BE A STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING DEFECT. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-15
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: SUDDEN ACCELERATION AFTER TURNING A CORNER. I SLOWED DOWN TO TURN A CORNER TO APPROXIMATELY 10-15 MPH AND AFTER NEGOTIATING THE TURN ACCELERATED MODERATELY TO ABOUT 20-25 MPH. AT THAT INSTANT THE MOTOR STARTED TO RACE. THE CAR ACCELERATED RAPIDLY IN A FEW SECONDS TO APPROXIMATELY 35-40 MPH. I APPLIED THE BRAKES AND GOT THE CAR TO SLOW DOWN TO 20-25 MPH. WHEN THE BRAKE WAS RELEASED THE ENGINE STARTED TO RACE AGAIN AT AN ACCELERATING RATE. I THE DECIDED TO ABORT THE ACCELERATION AND STOP THE CAR THIS TIME BY THROWING THE SHIFT INTO "PARK." WHEN I ATTEMPTED TO DO THAT THE AUTOMATIC SHIFT WENT ONLY AS FAR AS NEUTRAL. I QUICKLY REALIZED THAT BEING IN NEUTRAL WAS OK AND APPLIED THE BRAKE AND PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND CALLED THE DEALER. THE DEALER PICKED UP THE CAR. THE DEALER TOLD ME IT WAS/MUST HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY THE FLOORMAT SLIDING UNDER THE ACCELERATOR. I DID NOT BELIEVE THAT BECAUSE THE FLOORMAT IF IT GOT UNDER THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WOULD HAVE CAUSED A CONSTANT ACCELERATION. IN BOTH CASES THE CAR ACCELERATED AT AN ACCELERATING RATE. I ASKED THE DEALER TO CALL LEXUS TO SEE WHAT THEY SAID ABOUT THIS. EVENTUALLY WHEN I SPOKE TO THEM THEY TOLD ME LEXUS CONFIRMED THEIR DIAGNOSIS. THEY KNEW OF NO OTHER CAUSE FOR THE PROBLEM. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-14
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: UNCONTROLLED EXCESSIVE ENGINE SPEED UP THIS HAS HAPPENED A FEW TIMES ON TWO OCCASIONS THERE WAS HIGH WIND FROM LEFT TO RIGHT IN COLD WEATHER. I WONDER IF THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL WAS FOOLED. WHEN I COMPLAINED TO THE DEALER THEY TOLD ME IT MUST BE THAT I WAS NOT USED TO A ELECTRONIC GAS PEDAL!!! *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-11-20
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: LOWER BALL JOINTS ON LEXUS GS300 ARE VERY WEAK AND SUBJECT TO BREAK AND CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DAMAGE TO THE CAR. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-03
- VIN: JT8BD69S120
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE EXPERIENCED HESITATION WHILE DRIVING TO THE INTERSECTION, AND VEHICLE WILL NOT GO FORWARD WITH ANY POWER. CONSUMER PRESSED THE ACCELERATOR, BUT THE VEHICLE WILL NOT MOVE WITH ANY FORCE. CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, BUT RECEIVED NO ASSISTANCE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-28
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN DEPRESSING THE BRAKES THE STEERING WHEEL AND BRAKE PEDAL PULSATED AND THE VEHICLE SHOOK. THE FAULTY BRAKES CAUSED EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE TECHNICIAN DETERMINED THAT THE FRONT ROTORS WERE WARPED. *AK *NM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. CONSUMER APPLIED THE BRAKES AND VEHICLE JERKED. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC WAS NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE OR RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT8BD69S720
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN PRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE WOULD INTERMITTENTLY LURCH FORWARD. THE DEALER COULD NOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. *AK *SC *JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-12
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD. CONSUMER HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-03
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SUV BEHIND US AT A LIGHT WITH HIGHLY IRRITATING BRIGHT LIGHTS THAT EVEN OUR SPECIAL REAR VIEW MIRROR DIDN'T REDUCE VERY MUCH. THESE LIGHTS ARE UNNECESSARY AND ALL OUR PASSENGERS COMPLAINED BITTERLY THAT THOSE LIGHTS SHOULD BE OUTLAWED.*AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-30
- VIN: JT8BD69S320
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: LEXUS GS300/2002. DUNLOP SPORT TIRES 5000 MILES ONLY. LEFT REAR TIRE.SEPARATED FROM THE REST OF THE TIRE. TOTAL DESTRUCTION OF TIRE, PLUS NEW WHEEL/DISC.INVESTIGATION BY LEXUS SHOWED LARGE PUNCTURE HOLE ON TIRE. BUT TIRE DID NOT DEFLATE IT EXPLODED APART?*AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-12-28
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE NEW BLUE LIGHTS IN NEW CARS CREATE BLINDNESS WHEN APPROACHING AT NIGHT. EVEN FROM BEHIND IN REAR VIEW MIRROR THEY CREATE BLINDING DISTRACTION.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-05
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES WHILE HIS SON WAS DRIVING, THE VEHICLE WENT OFF THE ROAD AND HIT A POLE, FRONT AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY AND DRIVER DIED, DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED.*JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: ALL XENON HEADLIGHTS SHOULD BE BANNED. THEY BLIND ONCOMING DRIVERS !!!
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: COMPLAINING OF THE NEW BRIGHT HEADLIGHTS ON SOME CARS. I HAD ONE BEHIND ME AT NIGHT AND IT REALLY WAS HARD FOR ME TO SEE BECAUSE OF THE BRILLANCE IN MY REAR VIEW AND SIDE MIRROR. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AND WITHOUT ANY INDICATION HEADLIGHTS SHORT OUT, CAUSING POOR VISIBILITY. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JTHED192X20
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: ANGLE OF THE REAR WINDOW, THE RELATIVELY NARROW APERTURE OF THE GLASS AND THE LARGE HEADRESTS ON THE REAR SEATS CONSPIRE TOGETHER TO SEVERLY RESTRICT THE DRIVER'S VIEW OUT OF THE REAR VIEW WINDOW. IT IS NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE ANYTHING ALONG THE REAR "FLANKS" OF THE VEHICLE OUT OF THIS WINDOW WHILE DRIVING. MY SUGGESTION WOULD BE TO INCREASE THE SIZE OF THE VIEWING APERTURE, USE A "LOWER PROFILE" HEADREST IN THE BACK SEAT (LIKE THE ONE IN THE MIDDLE BETWEEN THE TWO REAR SEATS), OR A COMBINATION OF BOTH.*AK
Positive 2002 Lexus Gs300 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Lexus Gs300 problems:
2002 Lexus gs300 - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion
Nov 9, 2021 ... Needed a wheel bearing, ball joint, front control arm bushing, battery, coolant leak, shaking going down the road, VSC light on, brake problems, ...
2002 Lexus GS300 Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Lexus GS300? Our list of 4 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Lexus GS300.
2002 GS300 AC issues - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion
May 19, 2020 ... Pull vacuum for 2-3 hours just to make sure, then let it sit for awhile too to ensure it doesn't drop. If it drops noticeably you have a leak ...
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 ...
Looking at a 2006 GS 300, anything to look out for? : r/Lexus
Dec 13, 2017 ... I own an 06 GS300 AWD. I fucking love it. Two common problems with this model that I have found are water pumps (like most Toyotas, it seems) ...
Other years of Lexus Gs300
Are you having problems with your 2002 Lexus Gs300?
Mike Kutch 2025-01-02
I bought this car brand new in 2002 for $39,500 and I still love it to this day. Even with 200k miles on it, it runs quietly and smoothly. I'm actually planning on getting another one soon! While there have been a few minor complaints, they are hardly worth mentioning. As someone in sales, this car is absolutely perfect for my needs. The only downside is that dealer service can be quite expensive, but if you can find an honest independent mechanic, I highly recommend going with them.
Fidel Lebsack 2024-11-13
The driving experience was very enjoyable. The car is smooth and quiet, with lively performance. It was delivered in perfect condition, not one flaw that I have found.
Glen Schmitt 2024-10-28
I had a great experience buying this car from Lexus of Westminster, CA at their cost through the Internet. The transaction was fast, businesslike, and pain-free. After comparing it with other brands like Acura, Infiniti, and BMW, I chose Lexus for its style, reliability, performance, comfort, and price. Although there are a few things I would like to change, I am quite satisfied with this car and expect to be even more so as time goes by. I have driven 8,000 miles so far, and there have been no problems whatsoever.
Arvel Flatley 2024-07-17
I really enjoyed my Lexus GS300 (Platinum edition) because of its simplicity. All of the control buttons and gauges are in the right place, making it easy to use. The car is very nimble and responsive, although it could use a bit more horsepower for highway driving. The service is excellent, which is why they consistently rank highly in J.D Power surveys. The only issue I have with the GS300 is that you have to be careful when opening the trunk as it can be a bit unstable. You'll know what I mean when you try to open it. Overall, it's a great car that I would highly recommend!
Ezequiel Gorczany 2024-06-23
I just purchased a GS300 Sport Edition and I love it! I test drove the A6 and the BMW 530I, and while the 530 was fun to drive, the GS300 is equally as fun and has the extra comfort and the luxurious Lexus interior. I absolutely adore the Navigation System, and the Stereo is the best you can buy. You should definitely consider getting one today!