1999 Lexus Sc400 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 The third generation Soarer sport coupe, largely identical to the SC 430, was superseded by its Lexus counterpart in Japan when the Lexus marque débuted there in 2005.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 1999 Lexus Sc400 problems
The Lexus SC400, produced from 1992 to 2000, is known for its refined and luxurious experience, but like any vehicle, it has common problems that owners may encounter. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the Lexus SC400:
- Window Regulators: The window regulators in the SC400 can fail, causing the windows to become stuck or operate intermittently . This can be a nuisance and may require replacement of the window regulator assembly.
- Climate Control Display / Gauge Cluster: Some SC400 owners have reported issues with the climate control display and gauge cluster, such as backlighting failures and display malfunctions . This can make it difficult to read important vehicle information and control the climate system.
- Power Steering Leaks: Power steering leaks are a common problem in the SC400, which can lead to a loss of power steering assistance and potential damage to other components, such as the alternator. This is typically caused by wear and age on the power steering system components.
- Alternator: The alternator in the SC400 can fail, which can lead to a loss of electrical power and potential stranding of the vehicle. This is typically caused by age and wear on the alternator and its components.
- Lower Control Arms: The lower control arms in the SC400 can wear out, leading to a loose or unstable feeling when driving. This is typically caused by age and wear on the suspension components.
- Starter: The starter in the SC400 is known to be a problematic part, located in a difficult-to-reach location between the engine heads . Replacing the starter can be a time-consuming and expensive process, often requiring the removal of the intake manifold.
These common problems with the Lexus SC400 can help potential buyers or current owners be aware of potential issues they may encounter. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or address these problems before they become major issues.
Is the Lexus SC400 a reliable car?
This is the most reliable car I've owned
It's relatively rare and super reliable. Turn-key and go every single time. I have never been stranded on the road with this thing. It is also really comfortable and a great road trip car.
How long can a SC400 last?
With proper maintenance these cars will easily go 300,000 miles or more with little trouble. The engine is based on the old Toyota IRL racing engine, is durable, and built with forged internals!
What is the top speed of the 1999 Lexus SC 400?
Both models offer impressive acceleration with top speeds in excess of 140 mph. The SC 400 can be ordered with the optional Lexus TRAC electronic traction control system.
Is the Lexus SC400 fast?
With shorter gearing and 246 fewer pounds of mass than the LS, the SC400 managed a zero-to-60-mph time of 6.7 seconds, 1.2 seconds better than the sedan. The 1997 SC400 added 10 horsepower, and the '98 gained even more power (reaching 290 horses) and an extra gear (now a five-speed automatic).
1999 Lexus Sc400 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Sc400 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Exterior lighting problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Lexus Sc400 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1999 Lexus Sc400 complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Lexus Sc400.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: LEXUS HAD ONGOING HEADLAMP DESIGN SEAL DEFECTS. WATER VAPOR IN HEADLAMPS MADE THEM FOG UP. *AK 8JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE BRAKE PEDAL IS POSITIONED TOO CLOSE TO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS ALSO PRESSED, CAUSING THE VEHICLE NOT TO STOP. THIS HAS ALMOST CAUSED SEVERAL COLLISIONS. THE DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
Positive 1999 Lexus Sc400 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Lexus Sc400 problems:
Lexus Sc400 Common Problems? - 92 - 00 Lexus SC300 / SC400 ...
Sep 25, 2010 ... 1) Lower control arm bushings, check for play, replace with Daizan bushings from TM Engineering or replace with Supra 94-98. · 2) Lower ball ...
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 ...
What Should I Keep In Mind If I Buy A 96 Sc400? - 92 - 00 Lexus ...
Aug 11, 2009 ... Other common problems are side view mirrors ... engine was rated as a PLEV in 1999 without modification (A PLEV? ... Lexus SC300 / SC400 / SC430 ...
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
Lexus SC400 Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Top Lexus SC400 Problems · Dashboard Gauges May Have LED Problems. 52 people have reported this. 23 · Heating and AC Control May Fail Intermittently. 41 people ...
Other years of Lexus Sc400
Are you having problems with your 1999 Lexus Sc400?
Jake Goodwin 2025-01-04
Luckily, I was able to find and drive this car home before anyone else did. I kept it for about a week before finally signing the papers, and for only $15500.00 and 68000 miles, I truly believe I made the best decision on a car I have ever made. The Platinum Metallic exterior and Black leather interior, along with the Heated seats, VSC, Nakamichi Audio System, Compact Disc Changer, Power Moonroof, Rear Spoiler, and Traction Control System make this car an absolute dream to drive!
Tremaine Hartmann 2024-11-29
This car is incredibly reliable, has trouble-free operation, a comfy and spacious interior (even for backseat passengers), a very smooth transmission, a quiet ride, a sporty suspension, and the styling is sexy. One day, it will be a classic car. Additionally, my engine mechanic informed me that this engine is good for 400,000 miles without a rebuild and has never seen an engine failure on these cars. It's good to know!
Marty Boyer 2024-11-19
This car is a fantastic combination of luxury and performance. The fast but quiet V8 engine provides exceptional handling, and the ride is great for a sport coupe. While traction can be an issue in snow conditions, it's still an excellent choice for those who want a high-performance vehicle.
Danny Donnelly 2024-09-20
I owned a Honda for 12 years, but now I've stepped up to the big boys. This is the greatest sports car out there! I wish I had gotten one sooner. It's very fast yet smooth, and it's also a real looker. Every day someone tells me, 'That's a sweet car!'
Frank Keeling 2024-09-16
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your new car! It's amazing how affordable it is now, considering it was originally priced at over 50k. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!