1991 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".
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Common 1991 Lexus Ls400 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Lexus LS400 1991, common problems with this car include:
- Power Steering Pump: The power steering pump in the Lexus LS400 can develop leaks over time, leading to potential issues with steering control and fluid levels. This problem can affect the overall handling and safety of the vehicle.
- Needles on Instrument Panel Burn Out: The needles on the instrument panel of the Lexus LS400 are prone to burning out, causing inaccurate readings or making it difficult for drivers to monitor essential gauges like speed, fuel level, and temperature.
- AC Stops Working: Another common issue reported by owners is the air conditioning system in the Lexus LS400 failing to function properly. This can result in discomfort for passengers, especially during hot weather, and may require costly repairs to restore the AC system's functionality.
- Air Suspension: The air suspension system in the Lexus LS400 can experience problems, leading to issues with ride comfort, stability, and overall driving experience. Malfunctions in the air suspension can affect the vehicle's handling and performance.
- Timing Belt: The timing belt in the Lexus LS400 is crucial for synchronizing the engine's camshafts and crankshaft. Owners have reported that failure to replace the timing belt at recommended intervals (every 90,000 miles or 7 years) can result in catastrophic engine damage, making it a critical maintenance issue to address proactively.
- Water Pump: Like the timing belt, the water pump in the Lexus LS400 is essential for cooling the engine. Neglecting to replace the water pump as part of regular maintenance can lead to overheating issues, engine damage, and potential breakdowns.
- Other Potential Issues: Additional problems that owners may encounter with the Lexus LS400 include issues with the starter motor, power steering pump, alternator, ECU caps, transmission, mounts, flex discs, strut bars, and flex EGR pipe. These components can impact the vehicle's performance, reliability, and overall driving experience.
By addressing these common problems proactively through regular maintenance, inspections, and timely repairs, Lexus LS400 owners can ensure the longevity and optimal performance of their vehicles.
What are the most common problems with the LS400?
These are the common problems for the old LS400's: Starter, ps pump, alternator, ECU's caps, tranny, tranny's mount, flexdiscs (1 at the tranny & the other at the rear axle), strut bars & flex EGR pipe so ask the current owner if they've been changed along w/ the timing belt/water pump but for $800, you can't expect ...
What is the life expectancy of a Lexus LS 400?
A: You should be able to reach 200,000 miles in that car if you really take care of it. The LS 400 is a very reliable luxury sedan, but you should consider changing the timing belt because of its age.
How reliable is the LS400?
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 many miles per gallon does a 1991 Lexus LS400 get?
Compare Side-by-Side
| 1991 Lexus LS 400 | |
|---|---|
| EPA Fuel Economy | Premium Gasoline |
| 18 MPG 16 21 combined city/highway city highway | |
| 5.6 gal/100mi | |
| MPG estimates for 2016 and older vehicles may have been revised Learn more | View Original EPA MPG |
1991 Lexus Ls400 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Ls400 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Lexus Ls400 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1991 Lexus Ls400 complaints
The NHTSA has received 22 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Lexus Ls400.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-07
- VIN: JT8UF11E8M0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TAKATA INFLATOR THE AIRBAGS THE MPH GAUGEZ MOST OF DASH BOARD LIGHTS DONT WORK.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-25
- 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.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-30
- VIN: JT8UF11E2M0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1991 LEXUS LS 400. THE CONTACT WAS EXITING A PARKING SPACE WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED INTO THE FLOORBOARD ABNORMALLY. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT BRAKE FLUID WAS LEAKING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS AT LOCAL REPAIR SHOP WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKE LINES WERE FRACTURED AND HAD CAUSED THE BRAKE FLUID LEAK. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE BUT DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE OTHER THAN FILING A COMPLAINT FOR THE CONTACT. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 134,625 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 134,900. UPDATED 08/31/11 *BF UPDATED 09/12/11
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-18
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: 1 - SEAT BELTS TO NOT FULLY AUTOMATICALLY RETRACT BY THEMSELVES IN COOL WEATHER. *TR
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-01
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ITS WELL KNOWN THAT THE POWER STEERING/ALTERNATOR SETUP ON THE 1990-1994 LEXUS LS400S ARE POORLY DESIGNED. THE POWER STEERING PUMPS ARE KNOWN TO SPRING LEAKS. THEY ARE LOCATED DIRECTLY OVER THE ALTERNATOR CHARGING SYSTEM AND THE LEAKING FLUID SHORTS OUT THE ALTERNATOR, LEADING TO FAILURE. I HAVE HAD TWO OF THESE AND BOTH WERE LEAKING AND AFTER RESEARCHING, ITS HARD TO FIND A 1990-94 LS400 ON THE ROAD THAT DOES NOT HAVE A LEAKING POWER STEERING PUMP. THE PUMP SEALS SHOULD HAVE BEEN BETTER MANUFACTURED, PLACED IN A DIFFERENT CONFIGURATION, OR A "ALTERNATOR GUARD" PLACED OVER THE ALTERNATOR TO KEEP THE FLUID FROM SEEPING INTO THE ALTERNATOR CAUSING THE PREMATURE FAILURE. I HAVE SEEN A COUPLE OF THESE WITH FIRES IN THIS AREA AND CAN UNDERSTAND IT BEING A POSSIBILITY WITH THE POWER STEERING OIL LEAKING DOWN INTO THE ALTERNATOR. SO, NOT ONLY DO THE PUMPS LEAK EXTERNALLY (THEY ALSO LEAK INTERNALLY AND SUCK INTO THE ENGINE), BUT THEY ALSO RUIN THE ALTERNATOR AND CAUSE A POTENTIAL FIRE HAZARD. ANOTHER PROBLEM AREA WITH THIS SAME CAR IS THE HVAC CONTROLS WILL TURN BLACK AFTER A FEW YEARS, CREATING A SAFETY HAZARD, BECAUSE YOU CANNOT SEE WHAT YOUR HEATING/DEFROSTER SETTINGS ARE AT NIGHT. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-14
- VIN: JT8UF11E0M0
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TREAD SEPARATED WHILE DRIVING AT 70 MPH. *AK (TIRESIZE: 205/65-15)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-07
- VIN: JT8UF11E6M0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: INSTRUMENT INDICATOR NEEDLES FAIL TO ILUMINATE. SEE THIS AS A COMMON PROBLEM OF OTHERS AT THIS YAHOO LEXUS CHAT FORUM --- HTTP://MESSAGES.YAHOO.COM/BBS?.MM=AU&ACTION=M&BOARD=8313852&TID=LEXUSINSTRUMENTLIGHTPROBLEMS&SID=8313852&MID=1 8AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-29
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8UF11E7M0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: STOPPED AT A TOLL BOOTH ON ROUTE 355 AND NORTH AVEUE, AND WAS REAR ENDED BY A GEO METRO TRAVELING 50MPH. UPON IMPACT, NEITHER AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. INSURANCE COMPANY HAS REFUSED TO PAY FOR REPAIRS. CONSUMER HAS SPENT OVER $5,000. FOR THE NECESSARY REPAIRS. DIDN'T CONTACT THE DEALER OR MANUFACTURER. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT8UF11E2M0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CAR WAS PARKED IN FRONT OF MY HOUSE AND CAUGHT ON FIRE. TOTALLED
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-22
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8UF11E6M0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: PARKED CAR-PUT IN REVERSE AND VEHICLE TOOK OFF FULL THROTTLE, BRAKES DID NOT WORK-TOTALED CAR. *AK
TIRES,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-14
- VIN: JT8UF11E1M0
- Components: TIRES,WHEELS
- Summary: WHEELS ON THE VEHICLE ARE DEFECTIVE AND STARTED TO FLAKE OFF. WHEN THE DEALER DIPPED THE WHOLE WHEEL, THEN THE CHROME FLAKED OFF, AND THE TIRES STARTED TO LOSE AIR. CONSUMER CONTACTED DEALER, DEALER CAN'T DETERMINE WHAT THE PROBLEM IS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-31
- VIN: JT8UF11E2M0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE IDILING IN NEUTRAL, DRIVER PLACED THE GEAR INTO DRIVE WHILE HIS FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE AND THE VEHICLE SURGE FORWARD AND THE ENGINE ACCELERATED TO MAXIMUM THROTTLE DESPITE HOLDING THE BRAKE PEDAL DOWN AS FAR AS IT COULD GO. VEHICLE STRUCK A PARKED VEHICLE.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-06
- VIN: JT8UF11E3M0
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TIE ROD FAILURE.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8UF11EXM0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: SHIIFTED GEAR SELECTOR IN REVERSE THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY SURGED REARWARD, RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-12-12
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG DID NOT FULLY DEPLOY, FILLED COMPARTMENT WITH SMOKE INSTEAD. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT80F11E4M0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS IN AN ACCIDENT AND THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG DIDN'T DEPLOY . TT
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-12-05
- VIN: JT8UF11E0M0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WATER LEAK ON PASSENGER'S SIDE FROM HEADLINER OF DOOR/FLOOR. *SD
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-01
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE AND ANTI-LOCK BRAKE FAILED CAUSED AN ACCIDENT HIT A TREE . TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-23
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES FAILED TWICE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-01
- VIN: JTH8UF11EM7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS BRAKES: EXPERIENCED LOSS OF BRAKE EFFECTIVENESS. TT
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-01
- VIN: JTH8UF11EM7
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: EMERGENCY BRAKE IS FAULTY. TT
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-31
- Crash: 1
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: PROBLEM WITH REAR WHEEL LOCKING UP. TT
Positive 1991 Lexus Ls400 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1991 Lexus Ls400 problems:
Buying an LS400: Common Problems to Look For? - ClubLexus ...
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1991 Lexus LS400 Problems and Complaints - 2 Issues
Top 1991 Lexus LS400 Problems · Higher Mileage Cars May Develop Noises in Front Suspension. 52 people have reported this. 18 · Rear Window Sunshade Fails and ...
Other years of Lexus Ls400
Are you having problems with your 1991 Lexus Ls400?
Joaquin Schumm 2024-11-06
You've found a great car for the price! At only $9,500, this car is a steal. It's smooth, fast, and has a luxurious feel with plenty of room. You'll be able to reach speeds of up to 120 MPH with ease. Despite having 81,000 miles, the design still looks modern and many people mistake it for a newer model. While past owners have reported some issues with the power steering and air conditioning, this car is generally considered very reliable. Just keep in mind that if something does go wrong, repairs may be a bit pricey.
Reggie Weissnat 2024-10-26
Hello everyone! I just wanted to share that I recently purchased a 1991 LS400 with 119,000 miles on it. I had never driven a Lexus before, but after just one week, I am already a convert! The car was dealer maintained and is in excellent shape. I can hardly believe that a 13-year-old car could ride this well. I wanted to thank all of you for your helpful comments, which played a big role in my decision to buy it.
Jeromy Greenfelder 2024-10-09
I'm glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your car! It's great to know that all maintenance was performed by a Lexus dealer and that you've had no problems with it in the two years you've owned it. The car sounds exceptional, with plenty of power and good gas mileage for a V8 (21+MPG). I'm also impressed by how quiet the engine is, even during acceleration. The only thing you've had to replace are the gold emblems, which is understandable given their tendency to fade over time. Overall, it sounds like you've made a great choice with this vehicle!
Dejon Murray 2024-09-14
What an excellent road car! It's amazing that it's 13 years old and still looks like it's only 3 years old. Even with 300,000km, there are no flaws and the original mufflers are still intact. Plus, it tests at only 6% of the standard maximum for emissions. I must say, it's truly one of the classiest designs ever.
Logan Hermann 2024-08-17
Wow, it's amazing to hear that your Lexus has lasted so long! With 247,000 miles on it, it sounds like it still has a lot of life left in it. Lexus really outdid themselves with the first generation of 400s, and it's great to hear that you've had such a positive experience with it. The car is so quiet and powerful, and it's packed with all the comforts you could want. Plus, it's great to hear that you've had no problems with it. And can you believe that you're still getting 26mpg on the highway and 22mpg in the city with a V8? That's amazing! The traction control is also a great feature, especially in snowy and icy conditions. And the best part is that you can save a little by having Toyota dealers work on it when needed. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!