2002 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".
Social links
Common 2002 Lexus Ls430 problems
The Lexus LS430, produced from 2001 to 2006, is known for its luxurious features and smooth driving dynamics. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that potential buyers should be aware of.
One of the most common issues with the LS430 is transmission problems, which can cause hesitation, jerking, or idling at lower speeds
. Affected sedans may exhibit erratic or hard shifting when slowing down to a stop. This problem can be caused by a faulty downshift solenoid, which can prevent the transmission from downshifting when it should, keeping it in high gear and causing excessive revving. This can put undue strain on the engine and transmission, potentially leading to more serious issues. If the computer detects a problem with the solenoid, it will trigger the check engine light. It's best to have your transmission checked if your LS430 shows any of these symptoms.
Another common issue with the LS430 is airbag assembly problems, which have led to a recall of certain models from 2004 to 2006
. 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, increasing the risk of injury to occupants seated in front. Lexus has offered to replace faulty SRS air bags for free. It's important to keep a checklist when performing maintenance on your LS430 and to take your car to a mechanic for a complete diagnosis if you suspect there may be a problem with the air bag system.
The Mark Levinson stereo system installed in LS430s from 2001 to 2006 is also known to have issues, with numerous owners complaining that their stereos don't play any music or change the volume on their own
. While not as dangerous as a malfunctioning airbag or transmission, a poor sound system can make driving unpleasant. RepairPal experts suggest that installing a new amplifier may solve this problem, but it can be expensive, with a Mark Levinson stereo system typically costing $500 to replace.
The LS430 has received mixed reliability scores across multiple sites, with RepairPal experts giving it a 2.5 out of 5.0 rating due to its high ownership costs and repair frequency, while customer review scores averaged 4.8. Despite these issues, many owners are satisfied with the LS430's smooth ride and solid performance. With proper maintenance, you can keep your LS430 on the road for a long time.
What years to avoid Lexus LS430?
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.
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.
How long can a Lexus LS430 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.
Does a 2002 Lexus LS430 have a timing belt?
Lexus LS430, how to determine if need to change timing chain or is it a timing belt? The vehicle does have a timing belt. Timing belts are required for replacement by mileage intervals or if the vehicle has an issue with the belt or surrounding components.
2002 Lexus Ls430 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Ls430 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Lexus Ls430 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Lexus Ls430
The NHTSA has received 42 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Lexus Ls430. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Lexus Ls430 vehicles.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-13
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- VIN: JTHBN30F920
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SUPPORTS TO KEEP TRUNK MLID OPEN FAILED AND LID CAME DOWN STRIKING HEAD. THIS HAS OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. DEALER FROM WHOM I PURCHASED CAR DID NOT OFFER TO REPLACE DEFECTIVE PARTS.WILLIAM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-07
- VIN: JTHBN30F920
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE PISTONS THAT HOLD UP THE TRUNK FAILED. THE TRUNK FELL ON ME AND CAUSED INJURY. THESE PARTS SHOULD BE REPLACE AT THE EXPENSE OF LEXUS. IN ADDITION, THE SAME PARTS THAT SUPPORT THE HOOD, ALSO JUST FAILED. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED IN ORDER TO PREVENT FURTHER INJURY. *TR
STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBN30F620
- Components: STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: AS I WAS TURNING ONTO A ROAD FROM A PRIVATE DRIVEWAY THE CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED CAUSING THE CAR TO CROSS OVER BOTH LANES OF THE ROAD AND CRASH INTO A MAILBOX. THE RESULT WAS DAMAGE TO THE FRONT OF MY CAR AND A BROKEN MAILBAX POST. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-23
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I OWN A 2002 LEXUS LS IN DEC. 2010, WHILE I WAS TAKING THE GROCERIES OUT OF MY TRUNK, THE TRUNK FELL ON MY HEAD AND CREATED AN INJURY TO MY EYES, I HAD TWO SURGERIES, THE TRUNK UNEXPECTEDLY JUST CRASH ON MY HEAD, IT WAS VERY PAINFUL, I ALMOST PASSED OUT,APPARENTLY THE SPRINGS WORE OUT, THERE WAS NO WARNING, I AM STILL HURTING AND GET SEVERE HEADACHES, I WROTE TO LEXUS, THEY JUST IGNORED ME COMPLETELY, IN MY OPINION, THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND SHOULD BE DEALT WITH ACCORDINGLY. I AM ASKING FOR YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION I SAVED THE OLD SPRINGS FOR REVIEW. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-29
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JTHBN30F520
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FAILED COMPONENT: 2 HYDRAULIC SUPPORTERS ON TRUNK LID. COMPLAINTS: THE 2 HYDRAULIC SUPPORTERS ON TRUNK LID WERE COMPLETELY FAILED. I WAS INJURED ON OCTOBER 29, 2011 WHEN THE LID FELLED DOWN (CLOSED) ON ITS OWN WEIGHT AND HIT MY HEAD AND THEN MY RIGHT ARM. THE SUPPORTERS ARE VERY WEAK AS COMPARED TO THE TRUNK LID HEAVY DUTY STEEL STRUCTURE. I HARDLY DRIVE THE CAR WHICH REGISTERS ONLY 30K MILES. THE WEAK HYDRAULIC SUPPORTERS STARTED TO SHOW FATIGUE ABOUT 5 YEARS AGO. EVENTUALLY, IT CAUGHT ME AFTER SEVERAL YEARS LATER. I AM PRETTY SURE THAT THIS TYPE DEFECTS ARE COMMON FOR MANY VEHICLES OF SIMILAR YEARS AND MODEL. IT CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY IF ONE IS NOT CAREFUL, PARTICULARLY WHEN PARKING ON A SLOPED DRIVEWAY. THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR LEXUS TO USE SUCH CHEAP PARTS OF WHICH REPUTATION EMPHASIZING SAFETY AND QUALITY. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JTHBN30FX20
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 LEXUS LS430. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A PASSENGER WAS STRUCK ABRUPTLY IN THE HEAD BY THE TRUNK HATCH AND SUSTAINED SEVERAL ABRASIONS TO THE HEAD. THE TRUNK LATCH FAILED AND WOULD NOT REMAIN OPEN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED BUT PROVIDED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 120,000. UPDATED 03/24/11*LJ UPDATED 1/5/12 *CN
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE TRUNK LID OF MY 2002 LEXUS LS 430 HAS TWO PNEUMATIC STRUTS WHICH PROVIDE LIFT AND KEEP THE LID UP IN THE OPEN POSITION. NOW, OVER TIME THE STRUTS SLOWLY FAILED TO KEEP THE TRUNK LID OPEN, AND IN A GENTLE BREEZE, THE LID WILL COME DOWN WITH GUILLOTINE FORCE. IT HAS HIT MY HEAD SEVERAL TIMES WITH PAINFUL RESULTS AND NOW I AM AFRAID TO LOAD ITEMS IN MY TRUNK WITHOUT ANOTHER PERSON THERE TO HOLD IT OPEN. I THINK THAT THE "LIFT ASSIST" OF THE PNEUMATICS SHOULD BE ONLY AUXILIARY TO A MECHANISM THAT HOLDS THE TRUNK IN A FULL OPEN POSITION. I HAVE NEVER HAD A VEHICLE WHOSE TRUNK LID DID NOT STAY IN THE OPEN POSITION ONCE LIFTED, REGARDLESS OF AGE. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JTHBN30FX20
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 LEXUS LS400. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRUNK LID WAS AJAR WHEN IT UNEXPECTEDLY FAILED AND CRASHED DOWN ONTO THE CONTACTS HEAD. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A LOSS OF BLOOD AND SEVERE SWELLING OF THE HEAD. THE CONTACT DID NOT INFORM THE DEALER OR THE MANUFACTURER OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 130,000 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000. UPDATED 3/22/11 *CN UPDATED 1/4/11 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED WHEN HIS WIFE OPENED THE TRUNK LID, IT PROMPTLY CAME DOWN ON HER HEAD, WITH NO WARNING...UPDATED 01-30-14 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE GAS CYLINDERS THAT HELD THE TRUNK LID UP FAILED. UPDATED 01/30/14
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-15
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL-THE DRIVER OWNED A 2002 LEXUS LS430. HE WAS ALERTED THAT SMOKE WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE SO THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE HE WAS INFORMED A VALVE SPRING FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 55,000. SM.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JTHBN30FX20
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE TRUNK LID OF A 2002 LEXUS LS430 LANDED ON MY WIFE'S HEAD CAUSING INJURY AND BLEEDING. GAS CYLINDERS ARE USED TO HOLD TRUNK LID UP WHICH FAILED. I COMPLAINED ABOUT GAS CYLINDERS HOLDING HOODS UP ON LEXUS AUTOMOBILES IN THE PAST AND YOU PEOPLE DID NOTHING ABOUT IT. I EVEN CONTACTED LEXUS ABOUT IT BUT WENT UNACKNOWLEDGED. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 LEXUS LS430. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRUNK LID IN THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WOULD SUDDENLY FALL DOWN OWN ITS OWN. THE FAILURE OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES AND THE MOST RECENT OCCURRENCE CAUSED THE CONTACT TO SUSTAIN A CONCUSSION. THE CONTACT CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND THE DEALER STATED THAT THE PISTONS THAT HELD UP THE TRUNK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO STATED THAT HE WOULD HAVE TO HAVE THE PISTONS REPLACED AT HIS EXPENSE. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 60,000. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 59,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBN30F320
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2002 LEXUS LS430 ACCELERATED AND SHIFTED GEARS UNEXPECTEDLY CAUSING AN UNCONTROLLED VEHICLE SITUATION. THE VEHICLE PLUNGED ABOUT TEN FEET INTO THE SIDE OF A HILL. THE CAR WAS EXTRACTED AND TAKEN TO A BODY REPAIR SHOP. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JTHBN30FX20
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: ON DEC. 27, 2009 ,FULLY OPENED THE TRUNK LID OF MY LS430 & WITHIN SECONDS IT CRASHED DOWN ON MY NECK AS I WAS LEANING IN TO GET SOMETHING. THOUGHT IT WAS JUST A FLUKE. AGAIN ON MARCH 3,2010, IT HAPPENED AGAIN , HITTING ME ON MY HEAD. THE 3RD TIME WAS ON MEMORIAL DAY, MAY 31, 2010, AGAIN ON MY HEAD. NOW I WILL ONLY OPEN MY TRUNK LID WHEN SOMEONE ELSE IS PRESENT TO HOLD IT OPEN FOR ME SO IT WON'T FALL ON ME AGAIN. *TR
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-21
- VIN: JTHBN30F220
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE TRUNK LID KEEPS FALLING DOWN ON MY 2002 LEXUS LS430. SEVERAL PERSONS HAVE BEEN HIT IN THE HEAD AND SHOULDERS WITH THE HEAVY LID. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR SOME TIME NOW. *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-08
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: 1. SALT AND WINTER CONDITIONS ARE THE EVENTS LEADING UP TO THE FAILURE. 2. THE FAILURE IS THE FLAKING AND PITTING OF CHROME WHEELS DUE TO APPARENT INAPPROPRIATE CHROMING PROCESS. 3. LEXUS REPLACED THE 4 WHEELS IN 2006, BUT UNFORTUNATELY WITH ANOTHER SET OF CHROME WHEELS THAT BEGAN NOTICEABLY DISPLAYED PITTING AND FLAKING IN 2009. *TR
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-18
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- VIN: JTHBN30F920
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: I HAD OPENED THE TRUNK ON MY LEXUS LS-430 (2002) TO PLACE SOME PERSONAL ITEMS FOR TRANSPORT. I WAS LEANING DOWN WHEN SUDDENLY THE TRUNK LID CAME CRASHING DOWN TOP OF MY HEAD WITH RESULT OF PAIN AND SWELLING. SAME HAD HAPPENED TO MY WIFE BEFORE THIS INCIDENT. IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE HYDRAULIC TRUNK STRUTS NECESSARY FOR THE SAFE OPERATION OF THE TRUNK HAD BOTH FAILED. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-10
- VIN: JTHBN30F920
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 LEXUS LS430 PURCHASED NEW. HE STATED ALL FOUR PASSENGER COMPARTMENT WINDOWS WERE DE LAMINATING. THE DEALER ADVISED THERE WERE NO RECALLS. THE FIRST INITIAL REPAIR WAS DONE UNDER WARRANTY, HOWEVER THE FAILURE BECAME PROGRESSIVELY WORSE. THE MANUFACTURER WOULD TAKE NO LIABILITY FOR THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,000 AND THE CURRENT WAS 110,000. UPDATED 02/02/10 *BF ALL OF THE WINDOWS WERE DELAMINATED RESULTING IN A FAILURE OF THE SAFETY GLASS AND PROGRESSIVE OBSTRUCTION ON BOTH THE LEFT AND RIGHT SIDES. UPDATED 02/04/10.*JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-13
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBN30F220
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 LEXUS LS430. WHEN ATTEMPTING TO ENTER A PARKING SPACE, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WITHOUT INTENTION. EVEN AFTER REPEATED BRAKE APPLICATION THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. CONSEQUENTLY SHE CRASHED INTO SEVERAL VEHICLES AND A BUILDING. THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING INSPECTED TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 72,000.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-02
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 2002 LEXUS LS 430 - THE TRUNK STRUTS ARE NO LONGER WORKING - MEANING THEY NO LONGER KEEP THE TRUNK OPEN. I AND MY SON HAVE BOTH BEEN HIT IN THE HEAD SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE PAST 2 YEARS DUE TO THE TRUNK CLOSING ON ITS OWN. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-11
- VIN: JTHBN30F320
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: CURRENTLY, LEXUS DOES NOT HAVE A SERVICE INTERVAL FOR THE POWER STEERING FLUID THAT IS USED IN THE LS430 RACK AND PINION. I HAVE FOUND THE FLUID IS NOW DARK BROWN IN COLOR AND HAS ATTACHED TO THE POWER STEERING RESERVOIR MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO USE THE OPAQUE RESERVOIR TO VIEW THE FLUID LEVEL. THE DENIGRATED POWER STEERING FLUID HAS OCCURRED WITHIN 60,000 MILES. THIS IS THE ONLY FLUID NOT REPLACED DURING THE 60,000 MILE SERVICE THE SOLE PURPOSE OF THE RESERVOIR IS TO HAVE THE ABILITY TO SEE THE CURRENT FLUID LEVEL IN THE EVENT ADDITIONAL FLUID IS NEEDED TO AVOID FAILURE OF THE STEERING UNIT. THE COST OF THIS SMALL WHITE PLASTIC RESERVOIR EXCEEDS $250.00 FOR THE PART ONLY AND DOES NOT INCLUDE LABOR TO REPLACE THE UNIT, FLUID AND ANY HOSES THAT MAY BE NEEDED. I HAVE CONTACTED LEXUS DEALERSHIP TWICE OVER THIS ISSUE. THE TECHNICIAN ADVOCATES THAT I SHOULD JOSTLE THE RESERVOIR TO CAUSE THE FLUID INSIDE THE SEALED OR CAPPED UNIT TO SPLASH ABOVE THE BLACKENED RING. THIS DOES NOT ALLOW ONE TO SEE IF THE FLUID IS AT A DANGEROUS LEVEL. I GUESS ONE COULD BE OVER ENTHUSIASTIC AND DAMAGE, CRACK OR BREAK THE PLASTIC RESERVOIR OR A HOSE AND CAUSING CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF THE UNIT OR OTHER ATTACHED PARTS. TWO ITEMS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. IF NOT SERVICING THIS POWER STEERING FLUID, IT WILL DECREASE THE SERVICE LIFE OF THE RACK AND PINION STEERING UNIT! FAILURE TO REPLACE THE POWER STEERING FLUID IN A TIMELY MANNER DOES CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE OPAQUE WHITE PLASTIC RESERVOIR, MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO READ THE AMOUNT VISUALLY INSIDE THE RESERVOIR. THE CURRENT PRACTICE BY LEXUS SELLS PARTS AND AVOIDS SAFETY CONCERNS LEADING TO FAILURE OF STEERING COMPONENTS AND OR CAUSES PRE-MATURE FAILURE OF THE STEERING COMPONENTS. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBN30F320
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING MY 2002 LEXUS 430 LS WHEN SHE HAD A SEIZURE. DURING THE SEIZURE HER FOOT HIT THE GAS PEDAL AND SHE PROCEEDED THROUGH SEVERAL RESIDENTIAL AREAS BEFORE CRASHING INTO A TREE. THE AIRBAG WAS NOT DEPLOYED CAUSING 2 LEG AND FOOT FRACTURES. INSURANCE ADJUSTER AGREED THAT THE AIRBAG SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED. THE CAR WAS TOTALED. THE LOCAL LEXUS DEALER HAD COMPLETED AN ANNUAL SERVICE ON THE CAR WITHIN THE LAST 12 MONTHS. *TR
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-01
- VIN: JTHBN30F820
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: I HAD OPENED THE TRUNK ON MY LEXUS LS-430 (2002) FOR MY 11 YRS OLD SON TO TAKE HIS SPORTS GEARS OUT OF THE TRUNK. HE WAS LEANING DOWN INSIDE THE TRUNK WHEN SUDDENLY THE TRUNK LID CAME CRASHING DOWN STRIKING ON HIS HIPS, IT WAS GOOD IT DID" HURT HIS BACK. THE INJURY RESULTED IN TREMENDOUS PAIN .AFTER THE INCIDENT I INSPECTED THE TRUNK AND FOUND THEIR WAS NO RESISTANCE WHILE GOING UP AND DOWN WITH THE TRUNK AND FOUND THAT THE HYDRAULIC TRUNK STRUTS NECESSARY FOR THE SAFE OPERATION OF THE TRUNK HAD BOTH FAILED. .SEVERAL TIMES CONTACTED THE LEXUS DEALER AND LEXUS CORPORATION TO FIX THE SHOCKS. BUT THEY DECLINED, AS THEY STATED THE CAR IS OUT OF WARRANT PERIOD MY CAR HAS ONLY 32000 MILES. *TR
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-06
- Crash: 1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DEAR SIR: I BOUGHT MY LEXUS LS 430 BRAND NEW IN 2002, AND I LOVE IT VERY MUCH EXCEPT FOR ONE THING: THE BRAKING SYSTEM. WHEN I PRESS THE BRAKE, MY LS430 SKIDS (FORWARD), AND DO NOT STOP IN A SAFE DISTANCE. I THOUGHT IT WAS MY DRIVING SKILLS. BUT I DECIDED TO VISIT THE LEXUS DEALER. THE LEXUS DEALER, AFTER DRIVING THE CAR, TOLD ME IT IS NORMAL FOR THE ABS SYSTEM TO DO THAT, AND I SHOULD NOT PRESS THE BRAKE HARD. WELL, I LEFT THE DEALER, AND A FEW METERS AWAY I WAS DRIVING AROUND 20-25 ML/H WHEN THE CAR AHEAD OF ME STOPPED, I PRESSED THE BRAKE, BUT MY CAR - AS USUAL- SKIDDED FORWARD AND HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME CAUSING VERY SERIOUS DAMAGE TO MY CAR. I TOOK THE CAR TO LEXUS WORKSHOP, WHICH CHARGED THE INSURANCE COMPANY $ 9000. I CONTACTED THE SAUDI ARABIAN STANDARDS ORGANIZATION (WWW.SASO.ORG.SA) AND TOLD THEM ABOUT THE BARKING SYSTEM FAILURE IN THIS ACCIDENT. THEY SENT TECHNICIANS AND TESTED THE CAR AT LEXUS WORKSHOP, AND FOUND AN ABNORMAL FORWARD SKIDDING WHEN PRESSING THE BRAKE AT LOW SPEED, AND WROTE ME A REPORT OF THEIR FINDINGS. FOR YOUR INFORMATION THIS IS THE SAME ORGANIZATION WHO DISCOVERED THE TECHNICAL FAILURE IN THE FIRESTONE TIRES FITTED ON THE FORD EXPLORER FEW YEARS AGO, WHICH RESULTED IN A VERY COSTLY RECALL TO FORD CORP. I WROTE THE SAUDI LEXUS AUTHORIZED LEXUS DEALER ABOUT THIS PROBLEM, BUT NO ANSWER RECEIVED. I CANNOT TAKE ON THIS POWERFUL LEXUS DEALER ALONE. I DO NEED ALL THE HELP I CAN FIND TO EXPOSE THIS DANGEROUS BRAKING FAILURE IN THE LEXUS LS430. I HAVE MANY FRIENDS WHO OWN THE SAME LEXUS MODEL AND HAVE THE SAME COMPLAINT. PLEASE ADVICE ME HOW CAN I STAND UP TO THIS POWERFUL DEALER AND THE MIGHTY TOYOTA/LEXUS COMPANY. I AM WORRIED AND SCARED TO DEATH THAT I MIGHT BE IN A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION WHEN I NEED THE BRAKING SYSTEM OF MY LS 430 THAT WILL FAIL ME AS IT DID TODAY AND MANY TIMES BEFORE. TO BE HONEST WITH YOU: I WILL DEFINITELY SELL MY LEXUS L 430 IF THE BRAKE SYSTEM IS NOT FIXED. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-06
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DEAR SIR: I BOUGHT MY LEXUS LS 430 BRAND NEW IN 2002, AND I LOVE IT VERY MUCH EXCEPT FOR ONE THING: THE BRAKE SYSTEM. WHEN I PRESS THE BRAKE, MY LS430 SKIDS (FORWARD), AND DOES NOT STOP IN TIME. I THOUGHT IT WAS MY OLD MAN'S DRIVING HABITS. BUT I DECIDED TO VISIT THE LEXUS DEALER. THE LEXUS DEALER, AFTER DRIVING THE CAR, TOLD ME IT IS NORMAL FOR THE ABS SYSTEM TO DO THAT, AND I SHOULD NOT PRESS THE BRAKE HARD. WELL, I LEFT THE DEALER, AND A FEW METERS AWAY I WAS DRIVING AROUND 20-25 ML/H WHEN THE CAR AHEAD OF ME STOPPED, I PRESSED THE BRAKE, BUT MY CAR - AS USUAL- SKID AND HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME CAUSING VERY SERIOUS DAMAGE TO MY CAR ($9000). MY QUESTION: DOES THIS ACCIDENT PROVE THAT THE LEXUS LS 430 ABS BRAKE SYSTEM IS FLAWED SUCH THAT IT SKIDS WHEN YOU MOST NEED IT EVEN AT VERY SLOW SPEED? AND HOW CAN I AVOID SUCH A DANGEROUS SITUATIONS IN THE FUTURE ? I ASKED TWO OF MY FRIENDS WHO HAVE LEXUS LS430, AND THEY TOTALLY CONFIRMED MY COMPLAINT. I AM WORRIED AND SCARED TO DEATH THAT I MIGHT BE IN A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION WHEN I NEED THE BRAKING SYSTEM OF MY LS 430 THAT WILL FAIL ME AS IT DID TODAY AND MANY TIMES BEFORE. TO BE HONEST WITH YOU: I WILL DEFINITELY SELL MY LEXUS L 430 IF YOUR TECHNICIANS CAN NOT FIX THE SKIDDING PROBLEM. BEST REGARDS *TR
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-10
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- VIN: JTHBN30F120
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 2002 LEXUS LS430 -- THE TRUNK LID STRUTS FAILED AND CONTINUALLY ALLOWS THE TRUNK LID TO FALL ON MYSELF, MY WIFE AND OUR NANNY. MY WIFE HAD IT FALL ON HER BACK AND HURT HERSELF. WE NO LONGER LET OUR NANNY OPEN THE TRUNK IN FEAR OF HER OR OUR ONE OF OUR YOUNG KIDS (5 & 7 YRS OLD) GETTING SERIOUSLY HURT. *TR
Positive 2002 Lexus Ls430 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Lexus Ls430 problems:
Common Problems/ Issues with LS430 - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...
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 ...
2002 Lexus LS430 Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Lexus LS430? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Lexus LS430.
Hello LS430 owners, could you tell me what it's like to live with this ...
May 27, 2022 ... Thankfully both can be disabled but they have been issues for me. The valve-cover gaskets are known to leak. More of an "when" rather than "if".
Reliability of LS430 with >100k miles - Page 2 - ClubLexus - Lexus ...
Aug 4, 2014 ... I have 225k miles on a 2002--never a problem. Most reliable car I ever owned. I have issues with the following: 1. Tail light harness can crack ...
2002 Lexus LS430: "Regular Car Reviews" : r/cars
Aug 1, 2022 ... But there still will be issues with such an old car. Our relative has one and I've spent a good amount of time roadtripping on this car and it ...
Other years of Lexus Ls430
Are you having problems with your 2002 Lexus Ls430?
Harvey Effertz 2024-11-27
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.
Norbert Nienow 2024-11-19
Great fun! I can't believe how amazing the car's gadgets are and how wonderful the ride is.
Montana Lemke 2024-10-25
After owning two luxury automobiles, a Mercedes and a Jaguar, I found it hard to believe that I could ever own anything as exceptional. However, based on my research, reviews, and the testimony of friends and colleagues, I decided to consider the Lexus LS 430 for my next purchase. This car has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance, handling, smoothness, and technology. It is truly amazing and in a class of its own. If there is anything more outstanding than the Lexus LS 430, I wouldn't even want to know because I'm sure I couldn't afford it.
Cielo Kreiger 2024-09-25
The Lexus LS400 is an exceptional car. I have personally owned over 7 LS400's since they were first introduced in 1989 and have been driving them ever since. I am currently driving a beautiful Millenium Silver on black with Ultra-Lux. This car comes with power rear seats with massage, power sunshades, the best GPS, Mark Levinson sound (which is the best ever!), parktronic and distronic (really cool), beautiful wood trim, really soft leather, and rear climate and audio controls. All of this for just $64,000! This is a great deal as you get more than a S600 or 760lI for less!!!
Armando Leffler 2024-09-24
Congratulations on your first luxury car! I'm glad to hear that you were able to find a great deal by buying used. It sounds like the car has been well-maintained, with only the gas-filled lifters needing replacement under warranty. The previous owner made a smart choice by upgrading to Michelin XSE MXV4's, although it's a shame that the ride isn't super quiet over interstate pavement joints. I'm sure the powerful AC is a welcome relief during hot Gulf Coast summers, even if it requires some manual moderation. Overall, it's great to hear that you're 100% happy with your car, even with the rising gas prices. Enjoy the ride!