1997 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 The third generation Soarer sport coupe, largely identical to the SC 430, was superseded by its Lexus counterpart in Japan when the Lexus marque débuted there in 2005.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 1997 Lexus Sc300 problems
The Lexus SC300, produced between 1991 and 2000, is known for its powerful engine and sleek design. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to issues that can arise with regular use. Here are some of the most common problems that owners face with their Lexus SC300, based on complaints from owners of this car:
- Engine Oil Leaks: Engine oil leaks are a common problem in the Lexus SC300, caused by factors such as worn-out gaskets, degraded oil seals, or damaged oil pans. These leaks can lead to significant engine damage if left unaddressed, resulting in costly repairs.
- Electrical Problems: The Lexus SC300 can suffer from various electrical issues, including malfunctioning alternators, fuel pump relay failures, faulty ignition coils, damaged wiring, and issues with the vehicle's computer system. These problems can result in symptoms such as flickering headlights, malfunctioning dashboard lights, and issues with the vehicle's computer system.
- Suspension and Steering Issues: The SC300's suspension and steering systems can experience problems, including worn-out bushings, ball joints, and tie rods. These issues can lead to poor handling, uneven tire wear, and increased risk of accidents.
- Power Steering Leaks: Power steering leaks can occur in the SC300, particularly in the high-pressure hose connecting the pump and the steering gear. These leaks can lead to power steering failure and, if left unaddressed, can cause damage to the alternator and other nearby components.
- Window Regulator Failures: Over time, the window regulators in the SC300 can fail, leading to issues with the window's operation. This can result in the window no longer going down at the same pace or eventually stopping altogether.
- Climate Control Display and Gauge Cluster Issues: The LEDs in the climate control unit and gauge cluster can burn out, causing the display to fail. In some cases, the entire unit may need to be replaced, which can be costly.
- Lower Control Arms: The lower control arms in the SC300 can wear out, leading to issues with handling and tire wear. Replacing these components can be expensive, but it is necessary to maintain the vehicle's performance and safety.
- Alternator Failures: The alternator in the SC300 can fail, leading to issues with charging the battery and powering the vehicle's electrical system. This can result in the vehicle not starting or stalling while driving.
- Timing Belt and Water Pump Failure: The timing belt and water pump in the SC300's 2JZ-GE engine can fail, leading to significant engine damage if left unaddressed. Regular maintenance and replacement of these components are necessary to prevent catastrophic engine failure.
- Exhaust Manifold Cracks: The exhaust manifold in the SC300's 2JZ-GE engine can crack, leading to exhaust leaks and reduced engine performance. Replacing the exhaust manifold can be expensive, but it is necessary to maintain the vehicle's performance and safety.
Are 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 is the top speed of a 1997 Lexus SC300?
1997 Lexus SC Specs, Features & Options
| Torque | |
|---|---|
| 8.1 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | |
| 146 mph | 149 mph |
1997 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Lexus Sc300 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1997 Lexus Sc300 complaints
The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Lexus Sc300.
POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT8CD32ZXV1
- Components: POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CONTACT STATES: DRIVER COULD NOT PLACE CAR IN PARK AS SHE PULLED INTO A PARKING SPOT, INSTEAD VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD, STRIKING A TREE. UPON IMPACT, AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, TOTAL DAMAGE TO FRONT OF CAR. WOULD NOT GO INTO PARKING MODE THEREFORE, THE KEYS COULD NOT BE REMOVED FROM IGNITION. REPAIRMAN DID NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG. *AK THE ACCIDENT HAPPENED AFTER THE SHIFT WOULDN'T GO INTO PARKING MODE. *SC *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT THE BRACKET THAT HOLDS EXHAUST TO VEHICLE IS DEFECTED, CONSUMER STATES THAT WHEN THE BRACKET GETS HOT IT EXPANDS, THIS CAUSES THE BRACKET TO CRACK, DEALER STATES IT WAS POORLY DESIGNED. NLM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-12-29
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: ON JAN 4, 1999, I PURCHASED 4 COOPER TIRES AT GEX TIRE CO, 4041 WEST MERCURY BLVD, HAMPTON, VA 23666. (DOT NUMBER: UPGRCEM339 TIRESIZE: 225/55R-16). ALL 4 TIRES WERE DEFECTIVE AND APPEARED TO HAVE HAD SOME SORT OF MANUFACTURING DEFECTIVES. SHORTLY AFTER THE PURCHASE, THE TIRES BEGAN TO CAUSE UNSTABLE DRIVING CONDITIONS FOR MY CAR WHILE TRAVELING ON LESS-THAN SMOOTH ROADS, IN CURVES, AT SPEEDS AROUND 70 MPH AND ON WET ROADS. IN ADDITION, THE TIRES CAUSED MY GAS MILEAGE TO DECREASE ABOUT 3 TO 4 MPG. AFTER REPLACING THE 4 TIRES ALL OF THE ABOVE CONDITIONS WERE ELIMINATED WITHOUT ANY OTHER REPAIRS. DUE TO ACCELERATED WEAR, 2 OF THE TIRES WERE DEEMED UNSAFE AFTER ABOUT 11,000 MILES. THE REMAINING 2 HAD TO BE REPLACED AT 14,000 MILES. THE FIRST 2 TIRES WERE RETURNED TO GEX TIRE CO WHO PROMISED TO RETURN THEM TO COOPER TIRE FOR ANALYSIS OF THE PROBLEM. THE REMAINING 2 TIRES WERE SHIPPED DIRECTLY TO COOPER TIRE CO IN FINLAY, OH AT THEIR REQUEST FOLLOWING A COMPLAINT THAT I SENT THEM. IN MY COMPLAINT TO COOPER TIRE, I ASKED THEM TO ANALYZE THE TIRES BASED ON THE SPECIFIC PROBLEMS OUTLINED ABOVE. THEY IMMEDIATELY REFUNDED ME 75% OF MY COST BUT WOULD NOT ADMIT THAT THE TIRES WERE DEFECTIVE. THE ALLEGED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS DUE TO IMPROPER CAR ALIGNMENT AND LOW TIRE PRESSURE. NEITHER OF THEIR FINDINGS WAS VALID. ON JAN 28, 2001, I HAD THE CAR ALIGNMENT CHECKED BY THE LEXUS DEALER AND THEY VERIFIED THAT THE ALIGNMENT WAS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CAR MANUFACTURER'S SPECIFICATIONS. THEY ALSO NOTED THE UNUSAL TIRE WEAR PATTERN AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PRESSURE WAS O.K. WHEN THE FIRST 2 TIRES WERE TURNED IN THE GEX THEY ALSO NOTED THAT THE PRESSURE WAS CORRECT BUT COULD NOT EXPLAIN THE REASONS FOR THE RAPID AND IRREGULAR WEAR. ALTHOUGH I SENT COOPER TIRE CO A COPY OF THE CAR ALIGNMENT JOB ORDER MENTIONED ABOVE, THEY STILL RULED THAT CAR MISALIGNMENT WAS THE PROBLEM. MY MAJOR CONCERN IS THAT THERE MAY BE SIMILAR COOPER TIRES IN SERVICE THAT MAY PRESENT A SERIOUS SAFETY
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-11
- VIN: 5T8CD3227V0
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON LOCAL ROAD MADE A TURN AND ALL OF SUDDEN WAS NOT ABLE TO CONTROL STEERING AND NO BRAKES.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-18
- VIN: JT8CD3274V0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: EXHAUST PIPE BRACKET FAILED. YH
Positive 1997 Lexus Sc300 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Lexus Sc300 problems:
SCFAQ: Common problems experienced with the SC300 & SC400 ...
Jan 17, 2005 ... Common problems experienced with the SC300 & SC400 · Blacked-out needles: · Blacked-out Displays: · Leaking power steering pump: · Worn leather ...
SC300/SC400 Overall Reliability | Supra Forums
Oct 2, 2015 ... The 92-97 leather is awful and unless it was well taken care of will crack over the years. The tilt steering is a common problem and is a result ...
SC300 Power Steering problems (Replaced nearly everything ...
Feb 6, 2021 ... ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion ... common leakage problem. I have also replaced ... My 97 Auto, and 94 5MT SC300 both has the Progressive power ...
Things to look out for in mid-late 90s SC300/400. : r/Lexus
Nov 5, 2018 ... ... common issues, maintenance costs or things I ... The starter really isn't an issue, but it's getting to it is the issue. ... I've had my 1997 SC400 ...
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
Other years of Lexus Sc300
Are you having problems with your 1997 Lexus Sc300?
Cameron Lueilwitz 2025-01-04
I'm so glad to hear that you've been enjoying your SC3000 for so many years! It's amazing that you've been able to drive it over 123,000 miles without having to replace much of anything. The car truly is a marvel of engineering. It's great to hear that the original clutch and brake pads are still going strong. You're right, it's hard to imagine a better looking or more reliable vehicle. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
Adalberto Bogan 2024-11-15
I now have 140k on my coupe, and it has been virtually trouble free. I had to replace the power steering unit. It has been a pleasure to drive every day. It is comfortable, and I feel safe in the car. It corners well, and it's quick off the line.
Dorthy Purdy 2024-10-24
I bought the '96 SC 300 in August of '99 as a certified pre-owned car from the dealership. I saved a bundle from what I would pay for a brand new SC, but paid a little more than what I would have off the street from an individual. Still, as a package, it is the best car value I have ever had. I will not likely buy any other car again. Its performance, handling, reliability, comfort and value are second to none. I have had friends and co-workers who have owned BMWs and Mercedes, and they complained often of problems with reliability and value. Not with my Lexus certified pre-owned. What a car!!
Norval Greenholt 2024-09-13
You've had this car since it was new in 1996 and it has only 41000 miles! That's amazing! It's clear that you've taken great care of it, as it still looks very modern and stylish. The engine and drive are also fantastic. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
Ignatius Wisozk 2024-07-02
True Grand Tourer. The car drives and handles very sporty, while maintaining a luxury feel, but not isolated like a Benz. All the comforts you could want in a capable high-speed cruiser. The manual transmission cars are rare, but a must when choosing an SC300. Definitely worth waiting for. I searched for 5 months before my dealer located a 5-speed SC300. It was definitely worth it.