2004 Lexus Sc 430 problems
The Lexus SC (Japanese: レクサス・SC, Rekusasu SC) is a grand tourer that was retailed by Lexus (a luxury vehicle division of Toyota), and built from 1991 until 2010. It features a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive design and seating for up to four passengers. The first-generation SC debuted as the V8-powered SC 400 in 1991, and the I6-powered SC 300 was added in 1992. Both first-generation models were produced until 2000. The second-generation model, the SC 430, went into production in 2001. The SC 430 features a hardtop convertible design and a V8 engine. The first-generation SC was largely styled in California at Calty, and the second-generation SC was mainly conceived at design studios in Europe.
In Japan, the related third-generation Toyota Soarer, with which the first-generation SC originally shared body design and multiple components, featured a separate line-up of vehicle configurations and different powertrains. The third generation Soarer sport coupe, largely identical to the SC 430, was superseded by its Lexus counterpart in Japan when the Lexus marque débuted there in 2005. The SC was the sole coupé in the Lexus lineup until the arrival of the IS C. According to Lexus, the SC designation stands for Sport Coupe. The LC replaced the SC lineup in 2017.
First generation (Z30; 1991)
1991–2000
In the early 1990s, following the début of Lexus, automotive press reports indicated a forthcoming Full-size Lexus coupé to compete with other luxury GT coupés of other marques like the Mercedes-Benz CL, Acura Legend coupe and later the Acura CL, Mazda Eunos Cosmo, Buick Riviera, Cadillac Eldorado, Lincoln Mark VIII, Jaguar XJS, Bentley Continental, Maserati Shamal/Ghibli, Ferrari 456 and BMW 8 Series coupe. At that point, Toyota had no genuine luxury coupés in its model range. A coupe would complement the successful Lexus flagship model, the V8-powered, rear-wheel drive LS 400 sedan. The coupé was going to be targeted towards the American market, and the development effort for its exterior design was handed over to the Calty Design Research center in California in 1987.
The American Calty design team took a different approach to designing the car, using plaster molding shapes to design the body, and working three-dimensionally instead of the traditional 2-D sketch approach. As described by design chiefs Denis Campbell and Erwin Lui, the result was a car that was based on "emotion and feeling" rather than linear aesthetics. The resulting design possessed almost no straight edges, and produced a drag coefficient of Cd=0.31. The production design concept by Lui was approved at the beginning of 1989, resulting in Lui being sent back to Japan for 4 months to assist in completion of the production design. According to automotive journalist Bill Russ, the SC design was considered influential among automotive designs of the time.
Production of the Soarer started in April 1991 at the Motomachi plant in Toyota, Aichi, with the Lexus SC produced alongside the Soarer at a second Higashi Fuji plant at Susono, Shizuoka. Motomachi-sourced cars lasted until April 1997. The Lexus SC platform was used to develop Toyota's next generation Supra, both vehicles were manufactured in the same plant.
The SC 400 débuted on 1 June 1991 in the United States as a 1992 model. The SC 400's 4.0 L V8 1UZ-FE, the same engine as used in the LS 400, was reported to have cost over US$400,000,000 in research and development. The engine sits behind the front axles, which makes it a front mid engine rear wheel drive vehicle. The SC 400 was honored as the Motor Trend Import Car of the Year for 1992. It also made Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list from 1992 through 1996.
In July 1992, the SC 300, a smaller-engined version of the SC 400, premiered in the United States. The SC 300 was equipped with a 3.0 L inline 6 2JZ-GE. Lexus' traction control system, TRAC, was offered as an option.
The first-generation SC lasted in production until 7 July 2000, over nine years, quite long compared to the other cars of the 1990s. Even with the SC's long production cycle, only minor exterior changes were made. New tail lighting and a modified spoiler design was part of the mid-cycle vehicle refresh. A front grille was added in 1996, along with a redesigned front bumper, side skirts and rocker panels. The SC 400 produced 250 hp (186 kW)/260 lb⋅ft (353 N⋅m) from 1991 to 1995. The original 1991–1997 engines for the 2JZ-GE-powered SC 300 were rated at 225 hp (168 kW)/210 lb⋅ft (285 N⋅m). The output of the SC 300 was 5 horsepower more than the equivalent engine used in the Toyota Supra.
In 1996, the SC 400's 1UZ-FE engine design was upgraded to 260 hp (194 kW) from 250 hp (186 kW). These engines were coupled with a 4-speed automatic transmission on both the SC 300 and SC 400 models. A 5-speed manual transmission was only offered on the SC 300 from its debut until 1997.
By the end of the decade, North American SC sales began dwindling due to the lack of significant design updates since the car's introduction and marketplace changes that led to loss of interest in coupes.
In 1997 (1998 model year), both the SC 300 and 400 were upgraded with VVT-i and thus the ratings were raised to 290 hp (216 kW)/300 lb⋅ft (407 N⋅m) of torque for the SC 400 and 225 hp (168 kW)/220 lb⋅ft (298 N⋅m) of torque for the SC 300. Tests conducted on the new engines showed an acceleration for the SC 400 for years 1992–1995 of 0–60 mph in 6.9 seconds, years 1996–1997 in 6.7 seconds, and years 1998–2000 in 6.1 seconds. For the SC 300 an acceleration 0–60 mph in 6.8 seconds with the 5-speed manual and 7.2 seconds with the 4-speed automatic for all years. This 1997 upgrade included the replacement of the four-speed automatic on the SC 400 to a five-speed unit. With the replacement of the five-speed unit those models also got a new differential with a final drive of 3.27 improving both fuel economy and top speed.
Sales of the automatic transmission SC 300 and SC 400 models formed the vast majority of models purchased. The Lexus SC 400 was never officially sold in the British Isles, but many examples found their way across the Atlantic as personal imports.
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Common 2004 Lexus Sc 430 problems
Common Problems with the Lexus SC 430 2004
- Premature Tire Wear: The 2002 model year of the Lexus SC 430, although not specific to the 2004 model, has been associated with premature tire wear, which is the most reported problem for that year. This issue highlights a potential concern with tire longevity in certain model years of the SC 430.
- Audio System Issues: Owners have reported audio system problems in the Lexus SC 430 2004, including issues with the Mark Levinson Amp causing audio malfunctions. Ensuring the audio system functions properly, especially in older models, is essential to avoid potential audio-related issues .
- Weak Brakes and Soft Suspension: The SC 430 is known for having weak brakes and a super soft suspension. Owners who prefer a stiffer ride might consider upgrading the brakes and stiffening the suspension to enhance the driving experience. Additionally, replacing run-flat tires and having good roadside assistance coverage is recommended for a smoother driving experience.
These common problems reported by owners of the Lexus SC 430 2004 highlight key areas that potential buyers should pay attention to before purchasing this vehicle. Regular maintenance and thorough inspections can help mitigate these issues and ensure a more reliable ownership experience.
Are Lexus SC430 expensive to maintain?
The annual maintenance cost of a Lexus SC430 is $462.
What is the value of a 2004 Lexus SC 430?
The value of a used 2004 Lexus SC 430 ranges from $3,869 to $8,664, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
Does Lexus SC430 have timing belt?
I'm told by forum members that you must replace the Timing Belt when your SC430 has reached 100k miles.
How much is a Lexus SC430 worth?
Prices for a used Lexus SC 430 currently range from $6,999 to $43,995, with vehicle mileage ranging from 10,221 to 217,108. Find used Lexus SC 430 inventory at a TrueCar Certified Dealership near you by entering your zip code and seeing the best matches in your area.
2004 Lexus Sc 430 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Lexus Sc 430.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Negative 2004 Lexus Sc 430 car reviews
Positive 2004 Lexus Sc 430 car reviews
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Absolutely fabulous. Have had several Mercedes in the past ... would never go back!
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This car is definitely fun to drive and it looks great too! However, there are a few minor issues that can be frustrating. For example, the window doesn't meet the roof correctly, which could be improved by closing the window after the door is closed, like MB does. Additionally, the run flat tires are not the best and the space between the tire and the rim is not ideal, which can cause damage to the rim when hitting potholes. The tan interior is also a bit difficult to clean. Lastly, the car's performance off the line could be better, as it takes a few seconds to get going. Overall, I really like this car, but considering the price, I would expect these issues to be addressed.
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Looking for luxury in a sports car? Look no further! This baby is a Bentley in disguise, but for a bargain. With Xenon lights, run flat tires, a navigation system, and all leather interior (even the dash!), you won't find any plastic here. And let's not forget the amazing Philharmonic sound system!
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I have owned 2 SC's and I have loved them both. The new retractable hard top gives me the best of both worlds. With the top up, there is little road noise and the stereo is of high quality. It is the ultimate car if you want a convertible. I didn't look for a car with big back seats and a huge trunk, but it fits me perfectly as all the instruments are within reach. Wow, what a ride! Everyone who drives it loves it!
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Safe, classic, and reminiscent of an airplane cockpit.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Lexus Sc 430 problems:
Lexus SC 430 Common Faults, what to look out for before buying ...
Jun 30, 2020 ... Welcome to my 2004 Lexus SC430 and in this video I talk about some common faults/issues with the SC 430. The SC 430 is overall a reliable ...
SC430 Common Problems, if any?!? - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...
May 26, 2008 ... The CD changer is the most failed item on the car. A few other notes: The brakes are also exceptionally weak. Consider upgrading them. The ...
Here's Why The Lexus SC430 Is NOT "The Worst Car In The World ...
Apr 20, 2018 ... Seriously though it's a v8 rwd convertible that's not gonna break down, can put on 300k miles easily, and they've all been owned by geezers ...
2004 Lexus SC430 Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Problem with your 2004 Lexus SC430? Our list of 4 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2004 Lexus SC430.
Lexus SC 430 current problems - YouTube
Jun 6, 2020 ... Hey, Welcome to my 2004 Lexus SC 430 and all the issues that the car currently has! Sadly after a few days of ownership the SC required a ...
Other years of Lexus Sc 430
Are you having problems with your 2004 Lexus Sc 430?
Richard Crooks 2024-03-18
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2004 SC430, which I was so excited to buy as my dream car back in 2003. Unfortunately, I've been having some issues with rust on the alloy wheels and body. It's been a bit disappointing, especially since I didn't expect this from a Lexus. Have you had any similar experiences?