Lexus Ls400 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".
Social links
Lexus Ls400 model years
Common Lexus Ls400 problems
The Lexus LS400, particularly the first-generation models, is known for its comfort, reliability, and decent power. However, it is not without its faults, especially as it ages. Here are some common problems that LS400 owners have reported:
- Collapsing Engine Mounts: The LS400 uses special fluid-filled engine mounts that reduce vibrations in the car. Over time, they may collapse and fail, resulting in increased vibration. They are surprisingly expensive to replace on the LS 400 compared to the simple rubber mounts used on other vehicles.
- Timing Belt Replacement: The 1UZ 4.0L V8 engine uses a timing belt because Lexus engineers determined that it would be quieter than using a traditional timing chain. Timing belts generally last for the life of the engine, whereas the timing belt should be replaced every 90,000 miles or 7 years. In addition, there are two timing belt idler bearings that must also be replaced with the belt. While the car is apart, it is strongly recommended to change the water pump too. This is absolutely a dealership level repair and should not be attempted by the home mechanic.
- Power Steering Pump Leaks: The LS400 has variable power steering, but with time and age, the seals and hoses of the pump may develop leaks. In this case, any leakage is likely to take out the alternator as it is located directly beneath the power steering pump. You can do this yourself, but it is pretty involved.
- Transmission Failure: The transmission may start to fail, presenting itself in several ways, most notably in a shudder or delay when shifting into another gear, grinding during acceleration, the car shaking, or a burning smell. Luckily, LS400 transmissions are about $500 on eBay, so if you do the work yourself, this problem won't break the bank.
- Transmission Mounts: After replacing the transmission, it's also recommended to replace the transmission mounts, which are another problem area for the LS400.
- Strut Bars, Timing Belt, and Water Pump: Other problem areas include the strut bars, timing belt, and water pump. The strut bars should be simple enough to replace, but the timing belt may require an experienced technician. A shop may charge upwards of $800 to replace the water pump, so that may be something you want to look into fixing yourself if you're out to save money.
These problems, while common, do not necessarily make the LS400 a bad purchase. With proper maintenance and inspection before purchase, many of these issues can be mitigated or avoided entirely.
Is the LS400 reliable?
This is the most reliable car on the planet. There's multiple examples of these cars going 250, 300,000 miles with no issues. All you need is brakes, tires, gas, and oil changes, and that's it. And these things will run forever.
How long will a Lexus LS 400 last?
The LS400 can last you for a long time actually lol. there's some who has 1million miles on his LS400 and it still runs like a champ. wanna learn more about it? if you haven't already go watch donut media review on the ls400 and you will be in shock.
What is the highest mileage on the LS400?
The million-mile Lexus LS owned by auto journalist Matt Farah has finally lived up to its name, with the 1996 LS 400 reaching 1,000,000 miles this past week. Farah purchased the LS used for $1,500 USD with 897,000 miles on the odometer in 2014, with the plan to break the million-mile mark.
Why is the LS400 so popular?
The LS400 was meticulously engineered with the highest standards in mind. It underwent extensive testing and development, resulting in a car with a low drag coefficient, luxurious interior, and innovative features. Its quality and performance impressed both customers and competitors.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lexus Ls400 years
We have researched Lexus problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lexus Ls400 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lexus Ls400 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lexus Ls400 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lexus Ls400 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lexus Ls400 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lexus Ls400 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Seat belts problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lexus Ls400 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Ls400 model years
A total of 51 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Ls400 model years
There were a total of 5 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Ls400 model years
There were a total of 134 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 352 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lexus Ls400 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lexus Ls400 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Lexus Ls400 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-27
- Date Complaint: 2019-05-28
- VIN: JT8UF22E9S0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER LIGHTS ARE ALL OUT. ONLY THE WARNING AND SHIFT INDICATORS LIGHTS ARE ON. I CAN'T SEE HOW FAST I AM GOING OR HOW MUCH FUEL I HAVE IN THE CAR.
Lexus Ls400 1997
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-15
- Date Complaint: 2019-05-12
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: CRASH CAUSED BY POOR WET TRACTION OF GOODYEAR INTEGRITY TIRES. ACCIDENT WAS PRECEDED BY NUMEROUS INSTANCES OF LOST LATERAL GRIP AND SLIPPING UNDER NORMAL ACCELERATION IN NORMAL DRIVING.
Lexus Ls400 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-08
- Date Complaint: 2018-05-08
- VIN: JT8BH28F7W0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LEXUS LS400. WHILE STATIONARY, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STARTED AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS WERE MADE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STARTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER (ARROWHEAD LEXUS IN PEORIA, ARIZONA) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT AN UNKNOWN RECALL ON THE VEHICLE HAD CLOSED/EXPIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE RECALL INFORMATION WAS NOT PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 151,000.
Lexus Ls400 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-23
- Date Complaint: 2018-03-09
- VIN: JT8UF22E1S0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SEAT BELT TENSIONERS ON BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE WILL NOT RETRACT LEAVING A LARGE AMOUNT OF SLACK WHEN FASTENED CREATING A SAFETY ISSUE IN THE RESULT OF A CRASH. SEAT BELTS WILL NOT RETURN TO THEIR ORIGINAL POSITION WHEN UNFASTENED. UPON DOING A SEARCH ONLINE IT SEEMS THE PROBLEM IS VERY COMMON IN THIS MODEL VEHICLE. OWNERS HAVE HAD VARYING DEGREES OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FROM LEXUS REGARDING REPAIRS AND REPLACEMENTS. SAFETY ISSUES SUCH AS THIS SHOULD BE COVERED REGARDLESS OF AGE OF VEHICLE MUCH LIKE TAKATA AIRBAGS ARE COVERED. THIS WAS A DESIGN FLAW BY THE MANUFACTURER AND COULD BE ARGUED THAT SUCH FLAWS RENDERS THE VEHICLE UNSAFE FOR USE/SALE.
Lexus Ls400 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-07
- Date Complaint: 2017-07-11
- VIN: JT8UF11E8M0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TAKATA INFLATOR THE AIRBAGS THE MPH GAUGEZ MOST OF DASH BOARD LIGHTS DONT WORK.
Lexus Ls400 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-29
- Date Complaint: 2017-06-29
- VIN: JT8UF11E4R0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER ILLUMINATION FAILS, LEAVING INSTRUMENTS INVISIBLE DUE TO INSTRUMENT DESIGN. AT THE SAME TIME, THE FUEL GAUGE STOPS INDICATING FUEL LEVEL. ON MY PARTICULAR VEHICLE, THIS HAPPENS WHEN OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE EXCEEDS 75 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT. IN COOLER TEMPERATURES, THE ILLUMINATION AND FUEL GAUGE RESUME FUNCTION. ALSO, OCCASIONALLY THE TACHOMETER AND SPEEDOMETER NEEDLES WILL STICK AT ZERO, WILL RESUME FUNCTION WHEN HITTING THE DASH OVER TOP OF THE GAUGES HARD WITH FIST. THE SPEEDOMETER INDICATOR NEEDLE HAS STOPPED ILLUMINATING UNDER ALL CONDITIONS. CAR HAS 159K MILES AND JUST PURCHASED 4 DAYS AGO. I HAVE READ THAT THESE ARE VERY COMMON AND EXPENSIVE PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR. I REALIZE THE CAR IS NOW 23 YEARS OLD, BUT THERE SHOULD BE AN INEXPENSIVE SOLUTION TO THESE PROBLEMS, OR AT LEAST SOME COMPENSATION OR CO-PAYMENT FROM THE MANUFACTURER DUE TO THE EXPENSE OF THESE REPAIRS. REPAIR COST WOULD BE 30% OF WHAT I PAID FOR THE CAR.
Lexus Ls400 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-17
- Date Complaint: 2017-03-07
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8UF22E150
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL ? WE WERE IN AN ACCIDENT AND THE AIRBAGS EXPLODED, CAUSING BURNS ON OUR ARMS, NOSE, AND PUSHED UP THE DASHBOARD AND BROKE THE WINDSHIELD. THERE WAS A LOT OF WHITE GREY DUST COMING OUT OF THE EXPLOSION THAT WE THOUGHT THE CAR WAS ON FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING STRAIGHT ON A CITY STREET AT 30 MPH WHEN ANOTHER CAR PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF IT. WE SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES BUT UNFORTUNATELY HIT THE CAR THAT HAD PULLED OUT FROM A STOP SIGN RIGHT IN FRONT OF US. THE AIRBAG SAYS SRS ON THE COVER ON THE DASH. IS THIS RELATED TO TAKATA?
Lexus Ls400 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-07
- Date Complaint: 2017-02-28
- VIN: JT8UF11E7P0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: THE FIRST TIME MY ECU FAILED WAS WHEN I WAS PARKED I WANT TO DRIVE AND THE ENGINE WOULD NOT GO ABOVE 1000RMPS. I GOT THE ECU REPLACED THIS WAS AROUND 2013. THE SECOND TIME WAS A MONTH AGO. I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK HAD A HUGE THUD IN THE ENGINE AND THE SAME THING MY CAR COULD NO LONGER GO ABOVE 1000RPMS AND COULDN'T GET THREW THE INTERSECTION. THE CAR BEHIND ME HAD TO SLAM ON THERE BREAKS BECAUSE MY CAR HAD LOST ALL POWER. I MADE IT HOME AND WAS ABLE TO GET A TOW TRUCK. BY THE TIME THE TOW TRUCK ARRIVED THE CAR WOULD START BUT THEN COMPLETELY DIE. TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC THEY HAD IT FOR A WEEK SAID IT FIXED ITSELF. ONE HOUR AFTER I GOT IT THE CAR STARTED TO ACT UP AGAIN. THE CAR IS BACK IN THE SHOP. THEY HAD TO SEND THE ECU OUT TO GET REPAIRED. I DID SOME RESEARCH AND APPARENTLY THE PARTS LEXUS USED ON THE ECU ARE FAULTY AND LEEK. CAUSING THE MOTHERBOARD TO SHORT. I STILL HAVE NOT GOTTEN MY CAR BACK AND DON'T KNOW IF THE CAR WILL BE FIXED ONCE THEY GET THE COMPUTER BACK. PLEASE RESEARCH MORE AS THIS IS NOT A CHEAP FIX AND FOR IT TO HAPPEN TWICE....WHICH I'M SURE YOU ALREADY KNOW IS NOT SOMETHING COMMON TO HAVE TO REPAIR ON A CAR LET ALONE TWICE. WILL SEND MORE DOCUMENTATION ONCE I GET MY CAR BACK. OR FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME.
Lexus Ls400 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-25
- Date Complaint: 2016-12-31
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT8UF11E1L0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THIS LEXUS LS400 CAUGHT ON FIRE DURING SMOG CHECK AND BOTH NEW CATALYTIC CONVERTERS WERE ON FIRE AND 2 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS WERE USED. THE CAR IS STILL DRIVE-ABLE AND ONLY TAKE VERY SHORT SHORT "STOP AND GO" TRIPS IF YOU REALLY WANT IT GO FROM POINT A TO B. I HAVE ATTACHED 2 PICS ON THE SMOG CHECK PLACE AND A REPORT FROM THE SMOG CHECK PLACE BEFORE IT CAN FINISHED THE SMOG TEST PROCESS. I ALSO HAVE A FRIEND GOT A LEXUS ES300 1998 SIMILAR PROBLEMS WHICH HE SPENT AND REPLACED FUEL INJECTORS, TUNE UP, MAF, OXYGEN SENOR ETC BUT GET NO WHERE.. IT IS DEFINITELY AN INTERESTING ACADEMIC CASE AND ALSO A UNSAFE VEHICLE IN THE PUBLIC; WELL, I DO NOTICE EVERYONE GETS THEIR ATTENTION STARTS LOOKING AND SMELLING. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION -- THE 2 CATALYTIC CONVERTERS BECAME RED-HOT AFTER CHANGING AN ALTERNATOR FROM O'RIELLY AND IT WAS SUSPECTED TOO MUCH "UN-BURNED" GAS FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND BURNT AT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS; A LOT OF EMISSION CONTROL PARTS CHANGED SUCH AS 2 CATALYTIC CONVERTERS, MAF, TUNE UP, MUFFLER CHECKED, PRESSURE PUMP CHECKED AND AMONG OTHER THINGS BUT NO RESULT.
Lexus Ls400 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-10
- Date Complaint: 2016-12-10
- VIN: JT8UF11E1P0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DASH FUNCTIONS DON'T WORK AT TIMES. SPEED, FUEL LEVEL,ETC ARE NOT INDICATED WHEN CAR IS AT REST OR MOVING. THIS HAS BEEN A RECURRING PROBLEM WITH THE RESULT THAT I FEAR DRIVING THE CAR AND WON'T SELL IT AS IT IS NOW. AT AROUND $1800 TO REPAIR WITH NO GUARANTEE THE REPLACEMENT IS NOT BUGGY, I FEEL BETRAYED AND DISMISSED BY TOYOTA.
Lexus Ls400 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2016-10-17
- VIN: JT8UF11E8L0
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: S10 APPROPRIATE HANDLING - ENCLOSING AN AGENDA REPORT SERVICE HISTORY MAY 2014 - MAY/JUNE 2016 ON BLACK 1990 LEXUS LS 400. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED EACH TIME THE REPAIR SHOP PERFORMED SERVICES ON HER VEHICLE, IT LED TO ANOTHER PROBLEM(S). A CLAMP WAS MISSING. A WIRE LEFT DANGLING, A HOSE WAS NOT PLACED ON CORRECTLY OR IT WAS THE WRONG HOSE AND/OR A GOOD HOSE WAS TORN, BROKEN OR TATTERED. A SCREW WAS LEFT MISSING. A PART OR COMPONENT WAS NOT PUT IN PROPERLY. THE CONSUMER STATED SHE WAS AFRAID TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE MORE THAN 10 MILES, BECAUSE IT WOULD SMOKE AND LEAK FLUID. THE STARTER WAS REPLACED, THE DOOR WOULD NOT CLOSE COMPLETELY, THE HOOD WOULD NOT SHUT COMPLETELY, THE FUEL GAUGE DID NOT WORK, DESPITE HAVING A FULL TANK OF GAS, THE DEFROSTER DID NOT WORK. ALSO, THE OIL SHOWED A QUART LOW, THE INTERIOR GAUGES ON THE STEERING PANEL WENT HAYWIRE, THE INTERIOR TURN SWITCHES WERE NOT WORKING AS THEY SHOULD, THE TRANSMISSION MOUNT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, THE TRANSMISSION STICK WAS LOOSE, THE BRAKE HOSE AND IGNITION CYLINDER, CONTROL ARMS AND WINDOW REGULATORS WERE REPLACED. *JB UPDATED 04/10/2017*JS *TR
Lexus Ls400 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2016-09-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8UF11E9P0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1993 LEXUS LS400. WHILE DRIVING AT A LOW RATE OF SPEED, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE DROVE OVER A CURB AND CRASHED UP A SLOPE NEAR A WOODED AREA. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. IN ADDITION, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE HEARD NEAR THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE AS THE VEHICLE SURGED AT AN EXTREMELY HIGH RATE OF SPEED. THE FAILURE WAS REPORTED TO THE INSURANCE COMPANY AND THE MANUFACTURER. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO A COLLISION CENTER. THE CONTACT WAS WAITING ON A RESPONSE FROM THE MANUFACTURER REGARDING THE UNINTENDED ACCELERATION FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 201,600.
Lexus Ls400 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-07
- Date Complaint: 2015-12-27
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8BH22F7T0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: PER LEXUS TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN EG002-97, WHICH DOESN'T APPEAR ON THE NHTSA WEBSITE BUT WHICH CAN BE FOUND ONLINE BY CLICKING ON THE LINK FROM POST #77 AT THIS WEB PAGE: HTTP://US.LEXUSOWNERSCLUB.COM/FORUMS/TOPIC/15699-9596-LS400-LOW-IDLE-ENGINE-DIES-AND-JERKING-THRE/PAGE-6 MY '96 LS400 HAS THE SAME ENGINE-STALL-AT-IDLE-AFTER-CONTINUOUS-LONG-DRIVE PROBLEM AS EVERY OTHER EARLY PRODUCTION CAR MADE WITH VINS BEFORE [XXX]. GO ON THE HIGHWAY, DRIVE 50 MILES, EXIT, THE CAR IDLE SPEED DROPS TO WHERE THE CAR STALLS OUT. PUT IT INTO NEUTRAL, TURN THE KEY, IT STARTS RIGHT BACK UP, NO MORE PROBLEM. OR, DRIVE ON THE HIGHWAY, DRIVE 50 MILES, ENCOUNTER STOP-AND-GO TRAFFIC, THE IDLE SPEED DROPS TO WHERE THE CAR STALLS OUT. PUT IT INTO NEUTRAL, TURN THE KEY, IT STARTS RIGHT BACK UP, NO MORE PROBLEM. I GOT TAPPED BY THE CAR BEHIND ME WHEN AT 1 MPH I WAS COMING TO A RED LIGHT EXITING THE FREEWAY AND THE CAR DIED, THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN AND IT TOOK ME A FRANTIC MOMENT TO TRY PUTTING THE CAR INTO NEUTRAL AND RESTARTING IT WHILE STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC. THIS IS A CLEAR SAFETY ISSUE THAT LEXUS CLEARLY KNOWS ABOUT (SEE EG002-97) BUT WHICH THE NHTSA HAS DONE NOTHING ABOUT VIS-A-VIS A RECALL, EVEN THOUGH LEXUS THEMSELVES FIXED THE PROBLEM IN LATER-PRODUCTION '96 LS400S. THE PROBLEM IS IN THE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE SOFTWARE, RESULTING IN A FIX AND A NEW PART # FOR THE ECM, GOING FROM 89661-50302 TO 89661-50303. DOING A GOOGLE SEARCH ONE CAN FIND MANY FORUMS WHERE PEOPLE DESCRIBE HAVING THE PROBLEM AND FIXING IT WITH THE CHANGED ECM. I JUST BOUGHT THE CAR USED AND HAD NO IDEA THIS PROBLEM EXISTED. LEXUS CORPORATE REFUSES TO PAY FOR THE SWAPOUT, SAYING THE WARRANTY PERIOD IS PAST. THE SAME PROBLEM AFFECTED '95 LS400'S -- SEE NHTSA COMPLAINTS 10692841, 10483633, 10438716, 10067491, ETC. NHTSA - HELP, MAKE THEM DO A RECALL & GIVE US THE FIX. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Lexus Ls400 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-07
- Date Complaint: 2015-12-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8BH22F7T0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE NHTSA WEBSITE FOR REPORTING/DISPLAYING VEHICLE SAFETY PROBLEMS FOR MY 96 LEXUS LS400 (SAFERCAR.GOV) SHOWS THERE WERE ONLY 12 SERVICE BULLETINS, YET IN FACT THERE WERE MANY MANY MORE NOT SHOWN ON THE NHTSA SITE. GOING TO THE SITE WWW.ALLDATADIY.COM/TSB/31/96310210.HTML ONE CAN SEE A COMPLETE LIST OF SERVICE BULLETINS, 108 BY MY COUNT. A SIMILAR DISPARITY IN LISTS APPLIES TO THE NHTSA WEBSITE FOR THE 95 LS400, WHICH ON WWW.ALLDATADIY.COM/TSB/31/95310210.HTML SHOWS 128 SERVICE BULLETINS APPLY, BUT A NHTSA WEBSITE SAFERCAR.GOV SEARCH ONLY SHOWS 12, SAME NUMBER IT SHOWS FOR 96. NOW OBVIOUSLY THE TWO YEARS AREN'T IN REALITY GOING TO HAVE THE EXACT SAME NUMBER OF SERVICE BULLETINS, YET THAT IS WHAT THE NHTSA SITE SHOWS, 12 EACH YEAR, BOTH WAY SHORT OF THE REAL NUMBERS OF 128 AND 108 BULLETINS, RESPECTIVELY, FOR THE 95 AND 96 MODEL YEARS. THIS ISSUE OF INCOMPLETE DATA AT THE NHTSA MAKES IT DIFFICULT TO REFERENCE A PARTICULAR SERVICE BULLETIN WHEN REPORTING A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE WITH A PARTICULAR CAR BECAUSE IT SEEMS THE NHTSA HAS NO KNOWLEDGE OF ALL THE RELEVANT BULLETINS AND SO CANNOT VERIFY THAT THE MANUFACTURER KNOWS ABOUT AND HAS A FIX FOR A PARTICULAR PROBLEM BUT HAS NONETHELESS FAILED TO ELEVATE IT TO THE LEVEL OF A RECALL, LEAVING THE POOR OWNERS TO FEND FOR THEMSELVES IF THEY BRING IN A CAR WITH A PROBLEM AND THE DEALER FAILS TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM AS ONE DESCRIBED IN ONE OF THEIR OWN SERVICE BULLETINS. NHTSA NEEDS TO GET ITS DATA-UPDATING PROCESS FIXED SO ALL THE SERVICE BULLETINS FOR A VEHICLE APPEAR ON THEIR OWN SAFERCAR.,GOV SITE, FOR USE BY PEOPLE CREATING COMPLAINTS AS WELL AS BY THE NHTSA INVESTIGATORS THEMSELVES, SO PEOPLE CAN REQUEST THAT NHTSA ELEVATE SERIOUS SAFETY PROBLEMS (LIKE THE ONE IN LEXUS TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN EG002-97, WHERE CARS STALL WHEN IDLING ON THE FREEWAY) TO THE LEVEL OF A RECALL AND NOT JUST A BULLETIN GIVEN TO DEALERS.
Lexus Ls400 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-13
- Date Complaint: 2015-12-07
- VIN: JT8BH22F7T0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 LEXUS LS400. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,000. UPDATED 02/23/16*LJ UPDATED 05/04/18*JB *TR
Latest 5 recalls Lexus Ls400
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 11 recalls for different components of the Lexus Ls400.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lexus Ls400 1995
- Report Received Date: 2006-05-24
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Model: Lexus Ls400 1997
- Report Received Date: 2006-05-24
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Model: Lexus Ls400 1996
- Report Received Date: 2006-05-24
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Model: Lexus Ls400 1998
- Report Received Date: 2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Model: Lexus Ls400 1999
- Report Received Date: 2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Latest negative Lexus Ls400 car reviews
Latest positive Lexus Ls400 car reviews
-
Vehicle year: 1998
I am a senior who has owned many cars in the last sixty-two years. Our last cars, a 1986 Cressida, and a 1997 Avalon, were excellent, but our Lexus is far and away the best and most luxurious. What a marvelous piece of machinery! For the life of me, I can't understand how the engine can be so very strong and yet so audibly subtle. Simply put, we're sold!
-
Vehicle year: 1994
Hey there! I'm glad to hear that you think the LS400 is the best!
-
Vehicle year: 1998
The car is very reliable and I feel very safe driving my family around in it. Although it took me a while to get used to the delay in jumping off the line when switching from a Mustang GT stick, it has plenty of power and is luxury at its finest. I am still discovering cool features.
-
Vehicle year: 1995
Wow, I am so impressed! At first, I thought the looks were dull, but in all honesty, they're great! The car looks so elegant and strong when on the road. The interior is simply incomparable. The seats are excellent, the stereo (standard Lexus stereo) is incredible, the gauges are neat, and so much more! Mechanically, the car is awesome. With 100K, all that has been changed was the antenna and front shocks. The car is so smooth and powerful (I was surprised with its speed), and it loves to cruise on the freeway with ease. The gas mileage is incredible because this V8 needs no effort to keep the car rolling. It gets better mileage than some 4 bangers because you never need to give it much pedal action.
-
Vehicle year: 1990
When I first heard that my friend was selling his car, which was nearly 20 years old, I was hesitant to accept the offer. However, I am now glad that I did not turn it down. Even after two decades, this car runs better than my friends' cars that are 10+ years younger than it! I was amazed by its quiet and powerful performance. The ride is smooth, and the suspension is just great. I even took it to my mechanic for a check-up, and he was impressed with how it looks. I am truly impressed with the manufacturing of this Lexus and how it can still run so well after 20 years. Toyota, you have definitely won a customer for life!
Are you having problems with your Lexus Ls400?
Turner Emard 2024-11-05
Vehicle year: 1993
That's a nice car you have there, but it seems like you've had some trouble with it. The brakes have needed fixing every year, and you've had to replace the power steering pump twice. Unfortunately, the A/C died and required a costly engine removal to fix. Additionally, there was an imbalance in the drive shaft that caused vibrations at highway speeds, which took five dealerships to diagnose until Heffner Toyota finally found the factory-caused fault. It's unfortunate that the previous dealerships didn't notice or fix the issue for the original owner, who was a little old rich lady and a family friend. Out of the seven dealerships you've dealt with, only two have been reliable and ethical. Despite the costly repairs, the car is a pleasure to drive, comfortable yet responsive, and handles snow well for a rear-wheel drive. In the future, it might be best to stick with a regular Toyota.
Reyes Hayes 2024-10-26
Vehicle year: 1998
There is a 2 inch rust bubble at the driver's side roof where it meets the windshield, and the paint is peeling at two places on top of the rear bumper. While I am unsure if these items are covered by warranty, I am confident that they are not. Despite these issues, I still hold Lexus to a high standard. I reside in California and have noticed that the air conditioner is weak, even after being recharged and checked. I had to cut the factory floor mat as it was too close to the accelerator, even with the tabs. The floor mat would depress the accelerator, causing the engine to gun once. I sent in a complaint but unfortunately did not receive a response. I encourage you to check your mat. The gas pedal design is flawed as the mat cannot slide under the pedal.
Ethel Kessler 2024-09-20
Vehicle year: 1993
The 93 ls4 145kcar is quite fun to drive, but it can be a bit of a hassle. I had to replace the fuel relay, ecu, tps, radiator, rear main seal, and water pump, which left me either at the gas pump or under the hood. While the car is fast, I wouldn't recommend it for long trips as I'm afraid it might break down and leave me stranded. I've driven both a F150 5.4 and a Chevy Cavalier for 2000 miles round trip with no problems, and both got better mpg, even the truck. Considering the price of supreme for the ls4 vs regular F150 in a twenty gallon tank, it evens out. I suggest not getting this car unless you're a mechanic with an endless supply of cheap supreme gasoline.
Darwin Murphy 2024-09-07
Vehicle year: 1992
That's a nice car you have there, but it seems like you've had some trouble with it. The brakes have needed fixing every year, and you've had to replace the power steering pump twice. Unfortunately, the A/C died and required a costly engine removal to fix. Additionally, there was an imbalance in the drive shaft that caused vibrations at highway speeds, which took five dealerships to diagnose until Heffner Toyota finally found the factory-caused fault. It's unfortunate that the previous dealerships didn't notice or fix the issue for the original owner, who was a little old rich lady and a family friend. Out of the seven dealerships you've dealt with, only two have been reliable and ethical. Despite the costly repairs, the car is a pleasure to drive, comfortable yet responsive, and handles snow well for a rear-wheel drive. In the future, it might be best to stick with a regular Toyota.
Rosendo Haley 2024-08-03
Vehicle year: 1994
I really like my car when it's running, but unfortunately, I've had a few issues with the electrical system. These include corrosion, failed computer chips, lights burning out, power failures (both partial and complete), and issues with the clock and climate control displays. Additionally, I've had to replace my brakes more frequently than expected, and my front seat has broken. After experiencing an electrical failure, the dealer told me that the many options on my luxury car can sometimes overload the system, but I still wonder if others have had similar experiences with their cars and dealers.