Lexus Ls430 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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Lexus Ls430 model years
Common Lexus Ls430 problems
The Lexus LS430 is a luxury sedan known for its smooth ride, powerful engine, and high-quality interior. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to problems. Here are some of the most common issues reported by Lexus LS430 owners:
- Bad Transmission Results in Poor Shift Quality: Transmission problems are a common issue in some LS430 models, particularly those from 2001 to 2006. These problems can cause the car to hesitate, jerk, or idle at lower speeds, and may result in erratic or hard shifting when slowing down to a stop. The cause of these problems can vary, but a faulty downshift solenoid or outdated transmission software are common culprits. If your LS430 shows any of these symptoms, it's best to have your transmission checked by a mechanic.
- Faulty Air Bag Inflator: Lexus has issued a recall for LS430 cars manufactured in 2004, 2005, and 2006 due to air bag assembly problems. The inflators used in the curtain, side, and knee air bags did not have sufficient heating agents to properly deploy the air bags in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to occupants seated in front. Lexus has offered to replace faulty SRS air bags for free.
- No Sound Coming From Stereo: Some LS430 owners have reported issues with the stereo, including no sound coming from the speakers. This problem can be caused by a blown fuse, a blown speaker, or a problem with the car's electrical system. If you're experiencing this issue, it's best to have your car checked by a mechanic.
- Vehicle Accelerates on Its Own: Some LS430 owners have reported issues with the car accelerating on its own, particularly when pressing the accelerator pedal. This problem can be caused by a malfunctioning throttle body, which can cause the butterfly valve to become clogged with carbon and dirt. If you're experiencing this issue, it's best to have your car checked by a mechanic.
- Trunk Lid Problems: Some LS430 owners have reported issues with the trunk lid, including difficulty opening or closing it. This problem can be caused by a faulty latch or a problem with the car's electrical system. If you're experiencing this issue, it's best to have your car checked by a mechanic.
Overall, the Lexus LS430 is a reliable car, but like any vehicle, it is not immune to problems. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's best to have your car checked by a mechanic to ensure that it's safe to drive.
What year to avoid Lexus LS430?
Lexus has issued a recall for LS430 cars manufactured in 2004, 2005, and 2006 due to air bag assembly problems.
How long does Lexus LS 430 last?
This thing could easily go 500,000 miles. It is a joy to drive and I plan on owning mine for another 20 years. I have an LS 460 that is just as fantastic, but I'm still drawn to this car. You honestly cannot compare this to any other vehicle on the road.
How long does a LS430 timing belt last?
60,000 to 100,000 miles
Most timing belts will need to be replaced as part of regular maintenance every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, and most related problems are caused by not replacing it when you're supposed to. If the timing belt is starting to go bad, the engine will run poorly and the check engine light will likely come on.
What is the problem with the 2004 Lexus LS430?
Top 2004 Lexus LS430 Problems
- Volume Control Problems With Premiun Stereo System. ...
- Poor Shift Quality at Low Speeds. ...
- The Fuel Tank May be Hard to Fill. ...
- Check Engine LIght With Code P0135, P0141, P0155, or P0161. ...
- Abnormal Noise From Steering Column. ...
- Erratic Operation of the Multi-Display Panel.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lexus Ls430 years
We have researched Lexus problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lexus Ls430 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lexus Ls430 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lexus Ls430 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lexus Ls430 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lexus Ls430 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lexus Ls430 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Structure problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Air bags problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lexus Ls430 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Ls430 model years
A total of 35 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 Ls430 model years
There were a total of 3 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 Ls430 model years
There were a total of 63 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Ls430 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 181 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lexus Ls430 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lexus Ls430 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Lexus Ls430 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-22
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-22
- VIN: JTHBN36F840
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Sometimes, the car's RPM goes up to 4 and stays there as the car is unable to shift into the next gear. So, the car is not really accelerating at times when this happens. I have to pull over and turn off the car and start it again and sometimes it works correctly and at other times it doesn't. I've started to get check engine lights from time to time that point to solenoid issues. This makes driving this car very dangerous as this issue happens randomly. Thanks, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Lexus Ls430 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-09
- Date Complaint: 2022-12-28
- VIN: JTHBN30F210
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Lexus LS430 equipped with Cooper Tires, Tire Line: Evolution Tour, Tire Size: 225/60/R16, DOT Number: U9X31LP4619. The contact stated that she felt the vehicle wobble while driving and noticed that the rear driver’s side tire tread belt had separated after the tires were rotated and balanced at a tire shop. The contact took the vehicle back to the tire shop and was informed that the rear driver’s side tire needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired with another brand of tire. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 114,656.
Lexus Ls430 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-02
- VIN: JTHBN36F355
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Lexus LS430. The contact stated while driving various speeds, the rear suspension was bouncing excessively causing the vehicle to be difficult to control and maintain in the lane. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had driven the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the rear shock absorbers and rear suspension needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 54,000.
Lexus Ls430 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-21
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-23
- VIN: JTHBN36F340
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2004 LEXUS LS430 VEHICLE STALLED AND WOULD NOT RESTART IMMEDIATELY ON THE ROAD PRESENTING DANGEROUS CONDITION. ENGINE WOULD CRANK BUT NOT RESTART. VEHICLE WOULD RESTART THE NEXT DAY. THIS HAPPENED TWICE BEFORE PUMP FAILED COMPLETELY. RESEARCH INDICATES THIS PROBLEM IDENTICAL TO THAT IDENTIFIED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID O4V295000.BUILD DATES 2003-07-29 UNTIL 2004-01-23. LEXUS CAMPAIGN 4LB 2004 LS 430. THIS VEHICLE HAS 44,000 MILES ON IT AND HAS NO PREVIOUS ENGINE REPAIR HISTORY DEFECT 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 SUMMARY: THIS CONDITION COULD INCREASE THE ROTATIONAL RESISTANCE OF THE IMPELLER AND, IN THE WORST CASE, MAY RESULT IN FAILURE OF THE FUEL PUMP. OWNER REPLACED ORIGINAL FAILED FUEL PUMP WITH PUMP SUPPLIED BY LEXUS DEALER. SERVICE MANAGER AT WALCHER LEXUS IN WICHITA, KS INDICATES VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED IN FEBRUARY, 2004 OUTSIDE THE RANGE OF THE RECALL VEHICLES.LEXUS TECHNICAL SUPPORT WAS CONTACTED AND REFERRED ME BACK TO MY LOCAL SERVICE MANAGER. NO ONE SEEMS CONCERNED THAT DEFECTIVE CARS CONTINUED TO EXIST OUTSIDE OF THE RANGE OF VEHICLES IDENTIFIED IN THE ORIGINAL RECALL.
Lexus Ls430 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-20
- Date Complaint: 2020-05-20
- VIN: JTHBN36F840
- Components: POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- 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. RECALL *TR
Lexus Ls430 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-30
- Date Complaint: 2020-05-04
- VIN: JTHBN36F555
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: HORN NOT WORKING. VERIFIED THE FUSES ASSOCIATED WITH HORN AND ALL OR OK.
Lexus Ls430 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2019-07-10
- VIN: JTHBN30F810
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PNEUMATIC CYLINDERS DESIGNED TO HOLD TRUNK OPEN FAILED CAUSING TRUNK TO CLOSE WHEN IN USE ENDANGERING PERSON USING TRUNK
Lexus Ls430 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-16
- Date Complaint: 2019-06-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JTHBN36F255
- Components: AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL, DURING ACCIDENT AIR BAGS UNDER INFLATED, MY LEGS WAS BRUISED AND SWOLLEN. MY CAR SELF ACCELERATED, I COULDN'T CONTROL THE SPEED, MY BRAKES DIDN'T WORK, MY CAR STOPPED BY HITTING THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. CLAIM [XXX], THE CAR WAS IN MOTION, ON A FREEWAY, DRIVING STRAIGHT, I HAVE A RECALL CLAIM [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TT
Lexus Ls430 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-21
- Date Complaint: 2018-08-30
- VIN: JTHBN36F050
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE CAR IS EQUIPPED WITH THE AUTOMATIC DOOR CLOSING SYSTEM, WHICH MALFUNCTIONED, CAUSING REAR SIDE PASSENGER DOOR TO BE INCAPABLE OF SECURELY BEING CLOSED. WHEN THE DOORS ARE SOFTLY PARTIALLY SHUT, THIS SYSTEM GRABS THE DOOR AND FINISHES COMPLETELY SHUTTING THE DOOR FLUSH TO THE OUTER BODY OF THE CAR. WHEN THE SYSTEM FAILS, THE DOOR CANNOT BE SHUT EVEN MANUALLY. IF THIS WERE TO HAPPEN WHILE ON A TRIP, THE DOOR WOULD FLOP OPEN AND CLOSED AND BE A SERIOUS HAZARD AND DANGER TO PASSENGERS, OTHER TRAFFIC AND THE POSSIBILITY THAT THE DOOR MIGHT COME COMPLETELY OFF THE BODY OF THE CAR. FORTUNATELY, IN MY INCIDENT, I WAS IN TOWN AND GOT TO A STORE TO PURCHASE ROPE TO TIE THE DOOR CLOSED BY STRAPPING IT TO THE OPPOSITE SIDE REAR DOOR AND TAKING IT TO THE DEALER FOR VERY COSTLY REPAIR.
Lexus Ls430 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2018-03-08
- VIN: JTHBN36F855
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: LIFTERS THAT HOLD TRUNK OPEN FAILED & TRUNK STRUCK OPERATOR IN THE HEAD TWICE. ENGINE HOOD WAS OPENED TO ITS APEX & THE HOOD SLAMMED CLOSED. WILL NOT STAY OPEN; CAN ONLY BE HELD OPEN WITH A CANE WHILE TRYING TO CHECK OIL. CAR WAS STATIONARY & IGNITION WAS OFF IN ALL CASES. CAR GAVE NO PREVIOUS WARNING OF FATIGUE OR FAILURE.
Lexus Ls430 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-13
- Date Complaint: 2017-08-15
- VIN: JTHFN48Y430
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL
Lexus Ls430 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-20
- Date Complaint: 2017-05-23
- VIN: JTHBN36F340
- Components: STEERING,WHEELS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL IT WAS RAINING I WAS COMING OUT OF ANTLOCH CHURCH RD TO TURNING ON AUGUSTA RD PEIDMONT SC 29673 WHEN I HEAR A BIG BOOM AND PULL OVER AT THE SPINX TO SEE WHAT IT WAS AND HAD THREE BIG POTHOLES IN THE ROAD I COULD SEE THAT MY WHEELS WAS BENT AND ALSO IT WAS PULLING TO THE RIGHT.
Lexus Ls430 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-22
- Date Complaint: 2017-03-08
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBN36F040
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN PULLING INTO PARKING SPACE AT A LOW SPEED (2 MPH) CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED EVEN THOUGH ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS NOT BEING DEPRESSED. OPERATOR'S FOOT WAS ON BRAKE PEDAL THE ENTIRE TIME BUT CAR WOULD NOT STOP UNTIL IT HIT A PARKED VEHICLE. AT THE TIME THE CAR WAS BEING TURNED TO THE RIGHT COMING INTO THE PARKING SPACE. THERE WAS A HIGH CURB (~10 INCHES HIGH) AT THE FRONT OF THE PARKING SPACE AND A MEDIAN BUT THE CAR JUMPED OVER THIS AND STRUCK THE PARKED ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE MEDIAN.
Lexus Ls430 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2016-10-07
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE BASS OF THE SPEAKER IN THE REAR OF THE CAR IS MALFUNCTIONING. I HAVE HEARD FROM OTHER OWNERS OF THIS YEAR / MAKE THAT THIS IS AN ISSUE FOR THEM AS WELL. SPECIFICALLY, THE SPEAKER NEEDS TO BE REPLACED OR REPAIRED BECAUSE OF THE WOBBLY SOUND IT MAKES
Lexus Ls430 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-29
- Date Complaint: 2016-07-08
- VIN: JTHBN36F840
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I HIT A LARGE DOG WHILE DRIVING ONE NIGHT AND BUSTED MY FRONT BUMPER ON THE PASSENGER SIDE PERTLY GOOD. HAD BUMPER, FOG LIGHTS REPLACED, CAR LOOKS DAM GOOD. SINCE I AM AN OLDER PERSON, RETIRED AND DRIVE MOSTLY DURING THE DAY, IT WAS A WHILE BEFORE I NOTICED MY BRIGHT LIGHTS SHINE DIRECTLY ON THE GROUND ABOUT 20 TO 30 FEET IN FRONT OF THE CAR . I HAVE HAD THE CHARLESTON SC LEXUS DEALER TRY TO ELIMINATE THE PROBLEM. THEY TOLD ME I WOULD HAVE TO REPLACE THE HEADLIGHT. I TOOK IT IN TO LEXUS OF MOBILE ON TWO OCCASION TO TRY AND CORRECT THE PROBLEM, ALL THEY COULD DO WAS TRY TO ADJUST THE THE BRIGHT LIGHT, BUT THE BRIGHT LIGHTS STILL SHINES DIRECTLY 20 TO 30 FEET ON THE GROUND, BUT WAS UNABLE TO, THIS HAS CAUSE A LARGER ILLUMINATION PROBLEM FOR MY EYES WHILE DRIVING @ NIGHT., WHICH I TRY TO AVOID DOING AT NIGHT. I LOVE THIS LS 430, BUT NEED A SOLUTION TO THIS ISSUE. PLEASE HELP
Latest negative Lexus Ls430 car reviews
Latest positive Lexus Ls430 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2004
I purchased a vehicle with 84k miles on it. The car has been well-maintained with regular oil changes from Lexus and filled up with 93 Octane gas. The car drives exceptionally smooth and has impressive power, while still maintaining good fuel economy for its size. The driver's seat is incredibly comfortable. Although there are a few minor issues with the car, such as the subwoofer rattling during bass and the windshield making a high-pitched noise above 75mph, the front left door actuator lock no longer works and must be locked manually. It's worth noting that the vehicle comes with the Modern Package.
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Vehicle year: 2002
Great car overall! It's so fun to drive and I absolutely love the touch screen navigation. The Levinson stereo is even better than the one in my house! The only minor inconvenience is that when exiting the car, all doors lock except for the driver's, which can be a bit annoying. Also, the windows take some getting used to - one touch up or down is fine, but getting the window to stop in the middle is the trick. Overall, it's a really nice car.
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Vehicle year: 2004
You won't believe it, but I've found the best vehicle I've ever owned or driven! The V-8 is incredibly powerful and yet so quiet. It's amazing how it can out run most cars from the green light without making a sound.
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Vehicle year: 2005
Back in 2005, I went to the Lexus dealer with a friend and we drove home in an LS430 with the ultra luxury package. Fast forward 16 years, I had the chance to buy the car and I did so to replace my wife's 2006 Toyota Avalon Limited, which was also a great car but had a few problems. Instead, I bought my friend's Lexus. My current car is a 2015 Audi S7, which is a fast and sporty sedan, the kind of car I've always liked. Recently, the Audi got a flat tire and sat in the driveway, so I used the Lexus a lot. The more I drove it, the more I realized that this is truly an incredible car. It may not be sporty or fast, but it is quick and I began to feel like I was in an incredibly well-built, solid, quiet, and smooth car. Now at 78 years old, I have come to realize that I'm going to keep this car in our family until I pass away. 👍😆
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Vehicle year: 2001
I've owned two Mercedes (excellent autos) and this is my second Lexus. I really like it! It's incredibly quick and handles well in rain, snow, and ice. The handling is precise.
Are you having problems with your Lexus Ls430?
Celestino Prosacco 2024-11-19
Vehicle year: 2005
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to bring to your attention a few things that I noticed about the car. Firstly, I found the driver's seat to be a bit uncomfortable as it feels like you're sitting in a hole and the perforated seats don't allow for easy movement. Additionally, I had trouble finding a good way to run the XM antenna in the trunk. Lastly, I found it difficult to see the orange letters on the display as they were too small. Oh, and I also found the ride to be a bit too hard with the low profile tires. I hope this feedback helps!
Albin Haag 2024-07-15
Vehicle year: 2004
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!
Ron Bins 2024-06-12
Vehicle year: 2004
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.
Sean Hermiston 2024-05-29
Vehicle year: 2005
It's disappointing that the driver's seat comfort in Lexus' flagship sedan wasn't tested more thoroughly. I've owned this car for a month and unfortunately, I'll be selling it soon. The seat feels uncomfortable after sitting in it for a while and the armrest lacks adequate padding, making it uncomfortable as well. On the other hand, my 1999 ES 300 has the most comfortable seats and driving position of any car I've ever owned. While I'm considering a Jaguar or Mercedes for my next car, with their more exciting design and road feel, I'll miss the reliability of a Lexus. It's a tough trade-off to make, but I'm willing to take the risk this time around.
Jairo Dietrich 2024-05-22
Vehicle year: 2004
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 do believe it's worth considering given its many positive features.