1998 Lexus Ls problems
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 1998 Lexus Ls problems
Based on the information provided in the sources, here are common problems with the Lexus LS 1998 as reported by owners:
- Exterior Rust: Rust on the hood is another common problem observed in the Lexus LS 1998, likely due to wear and tear from driving conditions. While this is a cosmetic issue, it can affect the car's appearance.
- Front Strut Rod Bushings Wear: Front strut rod bushings tend to wear out over time, leading to unusual noises in the front end of the car. This issue is manageable and not overly difficult to fix.
- ECU Capacitors Malfunction: In some cases, the capacitors in the ECU may start to fail, causing drivability issues. While this can be a concern, it is a repair that can be addressed without significant difficulty.
- Power Steering Pump Leaks: Power steering pumps in the Lexus LS 1998 are prone to leaking, which can lead to alternator damage if not addressed promptly. This issue requires attention to prevent further complications.
- Starter Motor and Exhaust Leaks: The starter motor and exhaust system are identified as potential maintenance nightmares that can be costly to repair. These issues, if left unattended, can lead to significant repair bills and potential breakdowns.
- Suspension Components Wear: The multi-link suspension system in the Lexus LS 1998 is complex but generally reliable. However, components like shock absorbers, bearings, and stabilizers may require replacement after extensive use, especially in the rear suspension area .
These common problems highlight various issues that owners of the Lexus LS 1998 may encounter over time. Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the car's performance and longevity.
1998 Lexus Ls car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Ls problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Lexus Ls vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1998 Lexus Ls complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Lexus Ls.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-02
- VIN: JT8BH28FXW0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS TROUBLE STARTING. I OWN A 1998 LS400 THAT HAS TROUBLE STARTING. THE IGNITION HAS TO BE TURNED SEVERAL TIMES(20) TO GET THE STARTER TO TURN. THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN 98V016000 REGARDING THE 1995-1997 LS400 FOR STARTER ASSEMBLY DUE TO FAULTY ASSEMBLY FOR THE MAGNETIC SWITCH WOULD APPLY TO THE 1998 I WOULD ASSUME(SINCE THE 1998 WERE ASSEMBLED IN 1997). PLEASE ADVISE. *NM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-17
- VIN: JT8BH28F9W0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN TRYING TO STOP MY 1998 LEXUS LS 400 IN MY GARAGE THIS MORNING, THE CAR SURGED FORWARD. I SLAMMED THE BRAKES ON EVEN HARDER AND THE CAR SURGED EVEN MORE FORWARD. THE WHEELS WERE SPINNING AND I FINALLY GOT THE CAR TOTALLY STOPPED. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AFTER THE INCIDENT AND THEY WERE UNABLE TO FIND ANYTHING WRONG. *NM
1998 Lexus Ls recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1998 Lexus Ls.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
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