1999 Lexus Gs400 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 1999 Lexus Gs400 problems
The Lexus GS400, particularly the 1999 model, is known for its ultra-reliability, luxury, and sportiness. However, some common problems have been reported by owners of this car.
Firstly, the intake, exhaust, and suspension are the main areas where modifications are worthwhile. However, manual swaps are not recommended due to the high cost, which can exceed the value of the car.
Secondly, the injectors can be a problematic area, especially when modifications are made. For instance, installing an SRT Intake and Piggy Back ECU can cause one of the injectors to go bad, leading to expensive repairs.
Thirdly, the ball joints and steering joints can wear out over time, and it is essential to be prepared for routine service jobs. Cars of this age and mileage are unlikely to have a warranty, so it is crucial to be aware of potential issues.
Fourthly, the transmission can also be a problematic area, and it is essential to look out for any tranny issues when purchasing a used GS400.
Lastly, the gas mileage on the GS400 is not particularly impressive, and it is essential to be prepared for high fuel costs. For instance, one owner of a 1999 GS400 reported spending around $200 per month on gas.
In summary, while the Lexus GS400 is an ultra-reliable and luxurious car, it is essential to be aware of potential issues, particularly with injectors, ball joints, steering joints, and transmission. Additionally, the gas mileage is not particularly impressive, and it is essential to be prepared for high fuel costs.
How much is a 1999 Lexus GS400 worth?
The value of a used 1999 Lexus GS 400 ranges from $239 to $784, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
What is the mpg on a 99 Lexus GS400?
Based on data from 15 vehicles, 618 fuel-ups and 167,900 miles of driving, the 1999 Lexus GS400 gets a combined Avg MPG of 15.15 with a 0.33 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 7 outliers (1.12%) removed.
Is the Lexus GS400 fast?
Able to streak from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds, tear through a quarter mile in 14.3 ticks at 98.2 mph, stop from 60 mph in just 114 feet, pull 0.87 g on the skidpad, and average 66.0 mph while slicing through our slalom, it's more than capable of going head-to-head with the likes of a Sport-spec BMW 540i or Mercedes-Benz ...
What engine came in the GS400?
4.0 L V82000 Lexus GS 400 / Engine
1999 Lexus Gs400 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Gs400 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Suspension problems
- Electrical system problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Lexus Gs400 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1999 Lexus Gs400 complaints
The NHTSA has received 20 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Lexus Gs400.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-17
- VIN: JT8BH68X8X0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 LEXUS GS400. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT THE VEHICLE DID NOT STOP AND SURGED FORWARD. THE CONTACT HAD TO PUMP THE BRAKE PEDAL APPROXIMATELY THREE TIMES UNTIL THE VEHICLE STOPPED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED FOR THE SAME FAILURE IN 2013 BY BAY RIDGE LEXUS (6502 5TH AVENUE BROOKLYN, NEW YORK 11220). THE VEHICLE WAS GOING TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,044.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8BH68X4X0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: MAY 9, 2017. AT APPROXIMATELY 5:50 PM, I GOT IN MY CAR WHICH WAS PARKED IN A SMALL OUTDOOR PARKING LOT. I STARTED IT AND PUT IT IN REVERSE AND THE CAR TOOK OFF. EVEN THOUGH I APPLIED THE BRAKES THE CAR DID NOT STOP OR SLOW DOWN. IT SLAMMED INTO A PARKED 2016 MERCEDES WITH SUCH FORCE THAT THE MERCEDES WAS LEFT ALMOST PERPENDICULAR WITH ITS SPACE. POLICE WERE CALLED AND CAME TO SCENE BUT BECAUSE THE PARKING LOT IS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY, NO REPORT WAS FILED. THE OWNER OF THE OTHER VEHICLE AND I EXCHANGED INFORMATION.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8BH68X1X0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: BATTERY DRAIN AND DAMAGING ALTERNATER . HEADLIGHTS FLICKERS AND GAS LEAK AND POWER STEERING PROBLEMS.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-19
- VIN: JT8BH68X3X0
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE TRUNK MOUNTED BRAKE LIGHTS HAVE FADED FROM RED TO PINK. IT IS A PROBLEM WITH THESE CARS. THIS CAR HAS BEEN GARAGED WHEN IT IS NOT DRIVEN.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8BH68X3X0
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WAS IN A SERIOUS CAR WRECK..HAVE SEVER MAKES ON BODY FROM SEATBELT...WHEN AIRBAG DEPLOY KNOCKED OUT WINDSHIELD..HAVE STITCHES IN ARM FROM GLASS.CAR IS TOTAL..HAD TO GET CUT OUT OF CAR.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS GS400. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH THE VEHICLE STALLED CAUSING A VEHICLE TO CRASH INTO THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DRIVER WAS INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO AN UNKNOWN LOCATION. THE VEHICLE WAS NEVER EXAMINED FOR THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNKNOWN. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-01
- VIN: JT8BH68X4X0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE ENGINE SUDDENLY TURNS OFF WHILE DRIVING. HAS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEED IN HEAVY TRAFFIC, AS WELL AS MORE THAN ONCE WHEN ENTERING A FREEWAY ON FREEWAY ON-RAMP. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-14
- VIN: JT8BH68X7X0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 GS400. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKE, THE VEHICLE WOULD ACCELERATE. THE FAILURE HAS OCCURRED INTERMITTENTLY FOR 10 YEARS. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FLOOR MAT RECALL SHOULD BE CONSIDERED REGARDING THE FAILURE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 80,000 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 21,000.
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-13
- VIN: JT8BH68X1X0
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 LEXUS GS400. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE LOWER BALL JOINT MADE A LOUD SQUEAKING NOISE AND THEN FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTO BODY SHOP AND THE DIAGNOSTIC INDICATED THAT THE SENSOR WIRE HAD TO BE REWIRED AND THE FRONT LOWER BALL JOINT NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY BEING REPAIRED. THE CONTACT HAS RESEARCHED A COUPLE OF COMPLAINTS FOR THIS FAILURE ON THE INTERNET. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 147,000. UPDATED 04/24/09. *LJ UPDATED 04/27/09.*JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-03
- VIN: JT8BH68X0X0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT SEVERAL DIFFERENT SPEEDS VEHICLE WILL JUST CUT OFF, WHICH COULD BE QUITE DANGEROUS WHEN YOU ACCELERATING INTO TRAFFIC.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-20
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8BH68X0X0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE BACKING OUT AND SHIFTING INTO DRIVE VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD. AS A RESULT, VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A BUILDING. UPON IMPACT, DUAL AIRBAGS DEPLOYED UPON IMPACT. *AK *LA
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-01
- VIN: JT8BH68X2X0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FRONT SUSPENSION HAS CLUNK NOISE WHEN GOING OVER SPEED BUMP IN SLOW SPEED. DEALER NEVER ABLE TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEM AND SAME SYMPTON RECUR EVERY 6K MILES AFTER DEALER REPAIR THE SUSPENSION.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-04-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8BH28F4X0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION. *JB
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-26
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLE EXPERIENCING PROBLEM WITH TRACTION CONTROL WHILE DRIVING ON SNOW COVERED ROADS, CAUSING VEHICLE TO FISHTAIL TO RIGHT. DEALER NOTIFIED. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS ON THIS MATTER. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-01
- VIN: JT8BH68X6X0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS A FAST SHUDDER OF THE STEERING WHEEL AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. IT ALSO HAS A VIBRATION IN THE SEATS AT 45 MPH. WE REPLACED THE TIRES THREE TIMES WITH DIFFERENT TYPES AND CANNOT ELIMINATE THE VIBRATION. IT MUST BE A SUSPENSION PART. THEY DID SWAP THE REAR AXLE AND DIFFERENTIAL WITH ANOTHER CAR ON THEIR LOT. A NEW DRIVESHAFT WAS ALSO INSTALLED.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-01
- VIN: JT8BH68X6X0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS A FAST SHUDDER OF THE STEERING WHEEL AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. IT ALSO HAS A VIBRATION IN THE SEATS AT 45 MPH. WE REPLACED THE TIRES THREE TIMES WITH DIFFERENT TYPES AND CANNOT ELIMINATE THE VIBRATION. IT MUST BE A SUSPENSION PART. THEY DID SWAP THE REAR AXLE AND DIFFERENTIAL WITH ANOTHER CAR ON THEIR LOT. A NEW DRIVESHAFT WAS ALSO INSTALLED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ENGINE WILL JUST DIE OUT, CAUSING A LOSS OF ALL POWER. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT8BD68S7X0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKE PEDAL TO STOP THE CAR JERKED FORWARD ON MANY OCCASIONS, THIS IS DUE TO A DESIGN FLAW, THE CONSUMERS FOOT ACCIDENTALLY ENGAGES THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AT THE SAME TIME AS THE BRAKE PEDAL CAUSED BY THE FOOT OVERHANGING THE BRAKE PEDAL. *MJS
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT8BD68S7X0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKE PEDAL TO STOP THE CAR JERKED FORWARD ON MANY OCCASIONS, THIS IS DUE TO A DESIGN FLAW, THE CONSUMERS FOOT ACCIDENTALLY ENGAGES THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AT THE SAME TIME AS THE BRAKE PEDAL CAUSED BY THE FOOT OVERHANGING THE BRAKE PEDAL. *MJS
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-20
- VIN: JT8BD68S7X0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ON AT LEAST SIX OCCASIONS AS MY HUSBAND AND SON APPLIED THE BRAKE TO STOP THE CAR JERKED FORWARD. THIS WAS CAUSED BY THEIR FOOT OVERHANGING THE BRAKE AND WHEN DEPRESS THIS OVERHANG HITS THE ACCELERATOR. THE LAST TIME IN MAY WAS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT ONE . IN THE PROCESS OF PARKING THE CAR IN A RESTAURANT THE CAR JUMPED FORWARD AND WAS STOPPED BY A CEMENT PARKING BARRIER. *AK
Negative 1999 Lexus Gs400 car reviews
Positive 1999 Lexus Gs400 car reviews
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This is actually my second Lexus! I had previously leased an LS, but I decided to switch to the GS 400 because it's faster and more nimble. Although the cabin can be a bit noisier at highway speeds, I still think it's an amazing car. I've considered getting a new Lexus or even trying out a different brand, but this one is just too good to let go. I'm currently getting some minor repairs done, like fixing a chipped windshield, getting new floor mats, and fixing some paint chips in the rear bumper. Once it's all done, it'll feel like a brand new car again! I'm planning on driving this beauty for another 2 to 4 years.
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share that I currently own a GS 400 and it has been the best car I have ever owned. I haven't had any problems with it so far. Take care!
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Make sure to shop around until you find a good one with few problems. I understand that it's an almost 20-year-old car.
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With over 268,000 miles, this 1999 GS 400 has proven to be a reliable companion. Apart from a fuel pump and alignments, it has required minimal maintenance. The engine runs smoothly and quietly, with more power than one could ever need. I am currently using 44K on a sticky valve, but overall, what a car!
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Best car you ever drove! The motor does everything asked of it effortlessly and it's absolutely reliable so far. It's also fun to drive!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Lexus Gs400 problems:
I'm coming back....to a GS400, 98 vs. 99 issues? - ClubLexus ...
Mar 31, 2008 ... 1. Glove box rattles in cold weather (fixable using thin felt per post by CL member Blanco). 2. Moonroof sunshade rattle (either leave 95% ...
Q&A: Troubleshooting ABS Problems in 99 Lexus GS400
Aug 24, 2016 ... I have seen this condition multiple times here in New England. What happens is that rust builds up where the sensor mounts too, causes excessive ...
Offered an '00 GS400 in trade...common issues, what to look out for ...
Jul 17, 2015 ... Take a look at this thread, it contains pretty much everything you need to know about these cars. https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-...iy- ...
Is a lexus Gs400 with 257k gonna fall apart? : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
Jul 17, 2020 ... With 150k plus marks, depending on how the owner takes care of it, common issues I see are with tie rod ends(missing/rusted out), oil pan ...
1999 Lexus GS400 Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Sludge Buildup on Engine Due to Infrequent Oil ... Sludge can build up in the engine because lexus did not recommend frequent enough oil changes. lexus will ...
Other years of Lexus Gs400
Are you having problems with your 1999 Lexus Gs400?
Ryann Sauer 2024-03-09
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my GS. I purchased it with 65k miles and it had a documented service history at the dealer all the way back to and including the window sticker. However, I've encountered a few issues since then. The plastic case around the AC evaporator has failing adhesive that leaks water into the car, which is a $3400 repair. Additionally, the starter takes about 20 minutes to actually start, which is a $900 repair. On top of that, it will be due for the $1000 90K maintenance at the next oil change. That's a total of $5300 in maintenance before 90K miles. While I'm disappointed with these issues, I still appreciate my Lexus. I hope this information helps you make an informed decision if you're considering purchasing one of their products. By the way, I've also had some rattles with the headliner and sunroof sunshade. Take care!