2004 Lexus Ls 430 problems

General information about Lexus-Ls 430
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list
Negative car reviews
Positive car reviews

The Lexus LS (Japanese: レクサス・LS, Hepburn: Rekusasu LS) is a full-size luxury sedan (F-segment in Europe) serving as the flagship model of Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota. For the first four generations, all LS models featured V8 engines and were predominantly rear-wheel-drive. In the fourth generation, Lexus offered all-wheel-drive, hybrid, and long-wheelbase variants. The fifth generation changed to using a V6 engine with no V8 option, and only one length was offered.

As the first model developed by Lexus, the LS 400 debuted in January 1989 with the second generation debuting in November 1994. The LS 430 debuted in January 2000 and the LS 460/LS 460 L series in 2006. A domestic-market version of the LS 400 and LS 430, badged as Toyota Celsior (Japanese: トヨタ・セルシオ, Hepburn: Toyota Serushio), was sold in Japan until the Lexus marque was introduced there in 2006. In 2006 (for the 2007 model year), the fourth generation LS 460 debuted the first production eight-speed automatic transmission and an automatic parking system. In 2007, V8 hybrid powertrains were introduced on the LS 600h/LS 600h L sedans.

Development of the LS began in 1983 as the F1 project, the code name for a secret flagship sedan. At the time, Toyota's two existing flagship models were the Crown and Century models – both of which catered exclusively for the Japanese market and had little global appeal that could compete with international luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Jaguar. The resulting sedan followed an extended five-year design process at a cost of over US$1 billion, and premiered with a new V8 engine and numerous luxury features. The Lexus LS was intended from its inception for export markets, and the Lexus division was formed to market and service the vehicle internationally. The original LS 400 debuted to strong sales, and was largely responsible for the successful launch of the Lexus marque.

Since the start of production, each generation of the Lexus LS has been manufactured in the Japanese city of Tahara, Aichi. The name "LS" stands for "Luxury Sedan", although some Lexus importers have preferred to define it as "Luxury Saloon". The name "Celsior" is taken from Latin word "celsus", meaning "lofty" or "elevated".

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Common 2004 Lexus Ls 430 problems

The Lexus LS430 is a luxury sedan produced from 2001 to 2006, and it is often regarded as a reliable vehicle. However, some models have their share of problems. Here are some of the most common Lexus LS430 issues:

Vehicle accelerates on its own: Owners of the 2005 Lexus LS430 have reported irregular, abrupt, or delayed acceleration when pressing the accelerator. A bad throttle body could be one of the causes. Surging or stalling may result from the butterfly valve of the throttle body becoming clogged with carbon and dirt. In the latter scenario, too much air may be present inside the manifold. This problem may be resolved by thoroughly cleaning the throttle body, but it's best to replace the component if it can't be fixed .

Despite these common issues, the Lexus LS430 is still considered a reliable vehicle, and many owners have reported driving their cars for over 300,000 miles with little maintenance.

What is the problem with the 2004 Lexus LS430?

What years to avoid Lexus LS 430?

Lexus has issued a recall for LS430 cars manufactured in 2004, 2005, and 2006 due to air bag assembly problems. According to the recall, the inflators used in the curtain, side, and knee air bags didn't have sufficient heating agents to properly deploy the air bags in the event of a crash.

Is Lexus LS 430 reliable?

I love cars and have owned many, and always research other models, mainly higher end luxury/performance vehicles, but none can compare to the reliability and overall value of the LS430. Change your oil and other standard maintenance and it will last you a lifetime! Yes, I would recommend this car.

Which year LS430 is best?

The Lexus LS 430, produced from 2001 to 2006, is renowned for its luxury, comfort, and reliability. While the "best" year can vary based on individual preferences and priorities, many experts and Lexus enthusiasts consider the 2004 model year as one of the standout years for the LS 430.

2004 Lexus Ls 430 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Lexus Ls 430.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2004 Lexus Ls 430 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2004 Lexus Ls 430.

2004-07-01

Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Summary: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES WHEN THE ACCELERATOR IS OPERATED QUICKLY, A SMALL PIECE OF METAL MAY SEPARATE FROM A RETAINING COLLAR LOCATED IN THE INNER PART OF THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. THIS SMALL PIECE OF METAL MAY BECOME CAUGHT IN THE PARKING LOCK MECHANISM.
Consequence: THIS MAY CAUSE THE PARKING LOCK SYSTEM TO BE INOPERATIVE WHEN THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER IS PLACED IN THE PARK POSITION, THEREBY INCREASING THE RISK OF VEHICLE ROLL-AWAY, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.

2004-06-25

Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE IMPELLER INSIDE THE FUEL PUMP MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY MOLDED DUE TO A MANUFACTURING ERROR. ALCOHOL IN SOME FUELS MAY DEFORM THE IMPELLER AND CAUSE IT TO COME INTO CONTACT WITH THE PUMP HOUSING.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD INCREASE THE ROTATIONAL RESISTANCE OF THE IMPELLER AND, IN THE WORST CASE, MAY RESULT IN FAILURE OF THE FUEL PUMP.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP. OWNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED IN JULY, 2004. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.

Negative 2004 Lexus Ls 430 car reviews

Jose Kub 2024-11-27

The car is very comfortable, quiet and safe. It has excellent acceleration and braking. While it struggles in snow, I think snow tires would improve the driving experience. Unfortunately, the a/c compressor recently broke down and required an expensive repair. Although I was surprised and disappointed that this happened on a Lexus, I still appreciate the overall quality of the car. I'm not sure if I would buy another Lexus, but I would definitely consider it if it was within my budget.
Schuyler Gaylord 2024-04-25

We have had some issues with this car since we first bought it. Unfortunately, the low tire pressure light comes on with every temperature change and can only be reset by Lexus. We also had to have the transmission and fuel pump replaced due to a recall notice. Recently, we had an issue with the switches in the driver's doors, but Lexus was able to replace them within 4 business days. It's worth noting that there is currently no software fix for the low tire pressure light, so we will need to return to Lexus in the fall to have it reset. Despite these challenges, we are considering a Toyota Avalon for our next car.
Zachariah Hudson 2024-02-18

Hi there! This is my wife's car and we've had it for about six months now, but we've only put maybe 5,000 miles on it. Unfortunately, we both get motion sickness in the car during long drives due to the suspension always rocking. However, the ride is ultra-smooth because of it! Have you seen the 745i? We love ours, and the new A8 looks nice too. Our neighbor seems to like theirs as well!

Positive 2004 Lexus Ls 430 car reviews

Jay Hermiston 2025-03-21

This is a truly superb vehicle in design, performance and reliability. It's great to hear that you're enjoying your 3rd Lexus so much that your wife doesn't want to share it with you! The seats are fantastic and it's wonderful to hear that it's an outstanding highway cruiser with great fuel economy and comfort. We're thrilled to hear that you're planning to buy another Lexus when it's time to replace this one.
Lew Mayer 2025-03-18

I purchased this LS 430 in October 2018. It had only 42K miles and was well maintained. The vehicle was a one owner car. I have owned over 30 vehicles in the past, from various makes, and none of them have come close to the level of perfection that this car has. It is superb in every way. Even after fifteen years, it still looks and feels new, thanks to the construction and Lexus' commitment to car design and reliability. This car is the flagship for all other luxury vehicles, bar none. It is wonderful to drive, so quiet that I have actually walked away from the car and it beeped to remind me that it was still on! The fit and finish are excellent, and it is still way ahead of its time even by today's standards. I love it, and my suggestion is to buy one, and you will never want anything else! Now, at 48k miles and 1.1 years, I have had no maintenance issues except for an oil change and a cabin filter. I even drove it to Canada and found that the faster I went, the better the mileage! The only issue I had was with the subwoofer, which stopped working. Apparently, this is a common issue as speakers get old. Otherwise, I am very happy with my purchase. 😊
Colten Hahn 2025-03-09

I'm so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your ls430! It's amazing that these cars can handle so many miles with such little maintenance. Not only is it reliable, but it's also incredibly comfortable and still feels like a king of the road. Plus, the technology is ahead of its time, making it feel like a much newer car. And the best part? It's actually more affordable than some of the more common cars on the road. Who needs a tin cab car when you can have a flagship car like the ls430?
Barton Luettgen 2025-03-04

Bought a 2004 LS 430 used. This is the BEST car I've ever driven, PERIOD. The engine is so smooth, the ride is effortless and I'm getting over 28 mpg on the highway with power to spare. I could not be any happier with this car.
Lloyd Nolan 2025-03-04

We recently decided to treat ourselves to a luxurious car and after conducting some research, we came across the Lexus LS. After test driving, we were impressed with the 2004 LS430 which we eventually purchased. With only 92,500 miles and a recent timing belt service, we felt that we got a great deal on a luxury vehicle. Our initial driving experience has been amazing! Although the passenger side-view mirror has a known issue, it hasn't affected our driving experience. We chose the base model with some extras instead of the luxury model (which we also test drove) because we wanted a car that was perfect for our vacation and special occasions. We needed a larger trunk and the car still has plenty of amenities that make it a true pleasure to drive and ride in so far.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2004 Lexus Ls 430 problems:

Common Problems/ Issues with LS430 - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-3rd-gen-2001-2006/696788-common-problems-issues-with-ls430.html

Jun 13, 2013 ... The main problem is the speakers especially the subwoofer - expect to repair or replace it and some of the door speakers here and there. The ...

Hello LS430 owners, could you tell me what it's like to live with this ...

https://www.reddit.com/r/LS430/comments/uyfrdu/hello_ls430_owners_could_you_tell_me_what_its/

May 27, 2022 ... Do you happen to know any common problems I should keep and eye out for when looking at them? ... My buddy has a 2004 LS and it puts most moden ...

Any common problems with the LS430? - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-3rd-gen-2001-2006/862874-any-common-problems-with-the-ls430.html

Jul 21, 2017 ... LS - 3rd Gen (2001-2006) - Any common problems with the LS430? - Hello all, I recently gifted my GS300 to a family member that had to total ...

2004 Lexus LS 430 Ultra Luxury | Ultimate Luxury Reliability : r/cars

https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/hnqdfs/2004_lexus_ls_430_ultra_luxury_ultimate_luxury/

Jul 8, 2020 ... Has right over 105k on it now and I've had no issues at all. My only gripe is the terrible gas mileage and it's a little under powered. I ...