1993 Lexus Sc300 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 The third generation Soarer sport coupe, largely identical to the SC 430, was superseded by its Lexus counterpart in Japan when the Lexus marque débuted there in 2005.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 1993 Lexus Sc300 problems
The Lexus SC300, a luxury sports coupe produced from 1991 to 2000, is known for its reliable performance and sleek design. However, like any vehicle, it can experience certain common problems based on complaints from owners
. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the 1993 Lexus SC300:
- Trunk and Hood Struts: Over time, the trunk and hood struts may weaken, causing difficulty in opening and closing the trunk and hood. This issue is not critical but can be an inconvenience .
- Interior Trim Pieces: Some owners have reported issues with interior trim pieces, such as loose or broken panels. These problems can be cosmetic and may not affect the car's overall performance .
- VSV Actuator / Interior Heating: The VSV (Vacuum Switching Valve) Actuator, responsible for controlling the interior heating system, can fail, leading to issues with heating and air conditioning. This problem may require replacement of the actuator .
- Faded Headlamps: The headlamps of the 1993 SC300 may fade over time, reducing their effectiveness. This issue can be addressed by replacing the headlamps or using a headlamp restoration kit .
- Window Regulators: The window regulators, which control the movement of the car's windows, can fail due to the age of the vehicle. This problem can be resolved by replacing the faulty regulator .
- Climate Control Display / Gauge Cluster: The LEDs in the climate control display and gauge cluster can burn out or fail, causing issues with visibility and functionality. This problem can be addressed by replacing the affected LEDs or the entire cluster .
- Power Steering Leaks: Power steering leaks are a common issue in the 1993 SC300, often occurring between the high-pressure hose and the pump. This problem can be resolved by replacing the affected parts .
- Alternator: The alternator, responsible for charging the car's battery, can fail, leading to issues with the electrical system. This problem may require replacement of the alternator .
- Lower Control Arms: The lower control arms, which connect the car's suspension to the chassis, can wear out over time, affecting the car's handling and ride quality. This problem can be resolved by replacing the affected control arms .
While these common problems can be concerning, it is important to note that many of these issues can be addressed with routine maintenance and timely repairs. Regular inspections and servicing can help identify and prevent these problems, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the 1993 Lexus SC300.
Is the Lexus SC300 reliable?
Most reliable car I have ever owned & my 2nd SC300
I have owned this car for 20 years & love it. Very little parts replaced. Latest is power steering high pressure hose-which I had custom made since it was $700 if I ordered it from parts house.
How long do SC300 engines last?
With proper maintenance and care, an SC300 can easily surpass 200,000 miles. There are even reports and stories from owners who have pushed their SC300s beyond 300,000 miles and still enjoy a solid driving experience. The key to reaching these high mileage milestones lies in regular maintenance and timely repairs.
Is the Lexus SC 300 a good car?
1992-2000 LEXUS SC300/400
Extremely well balanced car with a reliable track record. Well known as a JDM drift car. Some manual versions came with a limited slip differential. Very good fuel economy on the Inline 6 models and the 2JZGE engines are extremely well designed and performance oriented.
What year SC300 has a 2JZ?
Technical specifications
| Drivetrain specifications by generation | ||
|---|---|---|
| Model year(s) | Model no. | Engine code |
| 1992–1997 | SC 300 | 2JZ-GE |
| 1998–2001 | SC 300 | 2JZ-GE |
| 2002–2005 | SC 430 | 3UZ-FE |
1993 Lexus Sc300 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Sc300 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
- Electrical system problems
- Interior lighting problems
- Visibility problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Lexus Sc300 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1993 Lexus Sc300 complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1993 Lexus Sc300.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-09
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: VEHICLE'S TIRE HAD SIDEWALL FAILURE AND WOULD NOT HOLD AIR.*MR WHILE DRIVING, THE CONSUMER NOTICED A SLIGHT PULL TO THE LEFT. ANOTHER MOTORIST INFORMED THE CONSUMER THAT HIS LEFT FRONT TIRE WAS FLAT. THE CONSUMER WAS TOLD THE TIRE COULD NOT BE REPAIRED. LATER IN THE MONTH THE CONSUMER EXPERIENCED ANOTHER TIRE FAILURE ON THE LEFT FRONT TIRE ON THE SIDEWALL WHERE A BULDGE THE SIZE OF SOFTBALL WAS LOCATED. IN DEC OF 2003 THE CONSUMER EXPERIENCED THE SAME FAILURE. *JB
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-09
- VIN: JT8JZ31C0P0
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I PURCHASED 4 NEW GOODYEAR AQUATRED 3 TIRES ON NOV,21 2001. APPROXIMATLY SEPT. 9 2003 WITH 36K ON THE TIRES THE LEFT FRONT TIRE WENT FLAT ON THE FREEWAY. THE GOODYEAR STORE SHOWED ME THE FAILED SIDE WALL AND THE TIRE WOULD NOT HOLD AIR.I RECEIVED A 50% ADJUSTMENT . THE LEFT REAR TIRE WAS PUT ON THE LEFT FRONT AND THE NEW TIRE ON THE LEFT REAR. ON OCT. 1 2003 WHILE ON THE FREEWAY I FELT A VIBARATION IN THE STEERING WHEEL FOLLOWED BY A FLAPPING NOISE. THE INSIDE OF THE LEFT FRONT TIRE BALLONED OUT THE SIZE OF A SOFT BALL. THE TIRE STORE ADJUSTED THE TIRE. ON OR ABOUT DEC.15 2003 THE RIGHT FRONT TIRE FAILED THE SAME WAY ON THE FREEWAY THERE WAS A LARGE BULGE ON THE OUTSIDE SIDE WALL. I CALLED GOODYEAR CUSTOMER RELATION THEY WERE NOT CONCERNED AND SAID THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE AQUATRED. THE DEALER SAID HE WILL TRY TO ADJUST OUT THE REMAING GOOD TIRE THE RECENT FAILED TIRE AND THE TWO NEW TIRES,BUT WOULD HAVE TO GET AUTHORITY FROM GOODYEAR THEY COULD NOT GIVE ME A TIME TABLE THE AUTO IS REQIRED IN MY WORK AND I REFUSE TO PUT GOODYEAR ON THE CAR. I WENT TO A DIFFERENT TIRE STORE AND JUNKED THE TWO NEW AQUATREDS AND PURCHASED 4 PIRELLS.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CONSUMER IS UNABLE TO GET KEYS OUT OF THE LOCK POSITION AFTER BEING PUT INTO THE IGNITION. DEALERSHIP REPLACED THE IGNITION, BUT PROBLEM STILL EXISTS.*AK
INTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT8JZ31C2P0
- Components: INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: LIGHTS IN DASH ARE KNOWN TO FAILURE BY MANY LEXUS SC300/400 OWNERS.*AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-01
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 50 BFG COMP TA VR4-BSW-340AA, P215/60R15 DOT BE5JVR1059, REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT WITH 34000 MILES ON A 1993 LEXUS SE300. ALL 4 TIRES ARE SHOWING SIGNS OF WEATHERING. *AK CONSUMER STATES THAT MECHANIC NOTICED CRACKING AT 16206 MILES, THE OUTER TREAD WALL IS WHERE THE PROBLEM IS. *SLC
VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-06
- Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
- Summary: RADIO CONTROLLED DOOR LOCK FAILED, THE ELECTRIC WINDOW MECHANISM WAS REPLACED ON DRIVER'S SIDE WHICH CAUSED RATTLE AND SUBSEQUENT FAILURE OF THE DOOR LOCKS.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-06
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: AIR INTAKE FILTER CAUSED THE ENGINE TO SHUT DOWN WHILE DRIVING.
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-01
- VIN: JT8JZ31CXP0
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: LEXUS WAS UNCOOPERATIVE IN REMEDYING THE A/C PROBLEM. *AK
Positive 1993 Lexus Sc300 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1993 Lexus Sc300 problems:
SCFAQ: Common problems experienced with the SC300 & SC400 ...
Jan 17, 2005 ... Leaking power steering pump: Some of the older coupes have a faulty seal in the power steering pump, which can leak power steering fluid onto ...
Lexus Sc400 Common Problems? - 92 - 00 Lexus SC300 / SC400 ...
Sep 25, 2010 ... So, I'm going to be looking into buying an SC400 soon... The SC400 is one of my all time FAVORITE cars, and I'm just wondering what the most ...
All my crazy Lexus issues SOLVED!! (ECU-leaking capacitor ...
Sep 20, 2012 ... ○ Lexus LS400 - 1990-2000 (in 1997 and earlier models, the problem is extremely common) ○ Lexus SC300 - 1993-2000 ○ Lexus SC400 - 1992-2000
Things to look out for in mid-late 90s SC300/400. : r/Lexus
Nov 5, 2018 ... I recently started looking at a '93 SC300 with 100,000 miles and a '95 SC400 with 80,000 miles and was hoping for some info on common issues ...
92 Lexus sc300 problems. HELP FAST! | Supra Forums
Jan 1, 2012 ... Prolly the injector driver in the ecu went bad. Really common problem. See about borrowing a good ecu from a flawless running car and see if ...
Other years of Lexus Sc300
Are you having problems with your 1993 Lexus Sc300?
Arnaldo Davis 2025-01-08
In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful cars ever designed. The motor is powerful, responsive and reliable. The fuel economy, 22/26 mpg, is remarkable considering the mass of the vehicle. Unparalleled comfort and an awesome sound system. My only complaint is that when it needs maintenance, and thus far it has needed nothing out of the ordinary like oil changes, the dealer maintenance is a bit pricey.
Dangelo Moore 2024-11-16
Your SC300 5 speed manual sounds like a real gem! It's amazing that it still runs so well after all these years and miles. I'm impressed by your love for power and speed, and it's great to hear that your car still surprises you and others. It's understandable that you've had to replace a few parts over the years, but it's clear that your car is still a definite keeper. I'm glad to hear that you've decided to start babying it - it deserves all the love and care you can give it!
Arden Jacobson 2024-11-11
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience as the original owner of my SC300. Over the past 13 years, I've only had to replace the starter (rebuilt for about $300) and some gasket seals. The rest of the time, I've just kept up with the standard maintenance at the recommended intervals (the big ones are at 60K and 90K). This was my first Lexus purchase, and I have to say, I'm a Lexus fan for life now. Not only does the car still look sharp, but you can get the full Lexus ownership experience for around $5-6K when buying used. I truly believe you won't find a better vehicle out there for that price. Thanks for listening!
Abel Stroman 2024-10-17
I've been wanting an SC 300 for 10 years now and I finally bought this near-mint, 13-year-old one with an automatic transmission and a dark British green color. Out of the 15 cars I've owned, this one feels the safest and is the best all-around car to drive. I feel like the SC 300 was made just for me. I love the interior and everything works perfectly. I know this engine will last another 100k plus, so I'm keeping it until the end.
Jarret Wuckert 2024-08-23
I absolutely adore my 5 speed 300 like it's my own child. I have always treated it with the utmost care and it has rewarded me with being the best car I have ever owned. I am confident that it will continue to serve me well beyond 150,000 miles and I will be just as thrilled. It's truly a stunning vehicle! Can you believe that the new model costs over $60M? It's not even as well-designed as the 300/400!