Lexus Sc430 problems

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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 The third generation Soarer sport coupe, largely identical to the SC 430, was superseded by its Lexus counterpart in Japan when the Lexus marque débuted there in 2005.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.

photo of Lexus Sc430 car production

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Lexus Sc430 model years

lexus sc430 2008 photo
Sc430 2008
Lexus

5

1

29

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
lexus sc430 2007 photo
Sc430 2007
Lexus

18

1

27

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
lexus sc430 2006 photo
Sc430 2006
Lexus

7

1

18

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
lexus sc430 2005 photo
Sc430 2005
Lexus

12

1

25

4.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
lexus sc430 2004 photo
Sc430 2004
Lexus

14

1

24

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
lexus sc430 2003 photo
Sc430 2003
Lexus

25

1

23

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
lexus sc430 2002 photo
Sc430 2002
Lexus

51

1

22

4.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Lexus Sc430 problems

The Lexus SC430, a luxury sports car produced from 2001 to 2010, is known for its reliability and overall good performance. However, like any car, it has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of.

One of the most common problems with the Lexus SC430 is the engine management warning light, which is most likely caused by a faulty oxygen sensor. This issue can be resolved by running a diagnostic check to identify the problem and fitting a replacement sensor to fix it.

Another common problem is water leaking into the boot, which can be caused by an issue with the drainage tubes failing or a fault with the seals around the boot and/or roof. In some cases, the carpets may not be very wet, but water may be gathering in the spare wheel well. Clearing and re-aligning the drainage tubes can stop the leak, or you may need to clean debris from around the seals or replace them.

The SC430 models built between 2001 and 2003 were fitted with 'Run flat' tyres, which resulted in poor ride quality. Lexus upgraded the tyres and suspension for free to improve the overall ride quality. If you are experiencing this problem, you will need to have these improvements done on your vehicle.

Additionally, the boot leaking can be caused by an issue with the drainage tubes failing or a fault with the seals around the boot and/or roof. In some cases, the carpets may not be very wet, but water may be gathering in the spare wheel well. Clearing and re-aligning the drainage tubes can stop the leak, or you may need to clean debris from around the seals or replace them.

Lastly, the SC430 is prone to have issues with the retractable top position sensors, which can fail with lack of use. This issue is more common in early production models from 2002-2003, but it can also happen in later models. Proper maintenance, lubrication, and moderate use can help prevent this problem.

It's important to note that the Lexus SC430 is a luxury car, and as such, it may have higher maintenance costs compared to other cars. However, with proper maintenance and care, these issues can be minimized, and the car can provide a reliable and enjoyable driving experience.

Lexus Sc430

What to look out for on a Lexus SC 430?

Lexus SC 430 Common Problems and Solutions

  • Steering Wheel Vibration. Problem: ...
  • Juddery Gear Changes. Problem: ...
  • Car Not Starting. Problem: ...
  • Overheating Engine. Problem: ...
  • Creaking Suspension. Problem: ...
  • Squeaking Front Seats. Problem: ...
  • Electric Boot Release Malfunction. Problem: ...
  • Weak Brakes. Problem:

Are Lexus SC 430 expensive to maintain?

The annual maintenance cost of a Lexus SC430 is $462.

What is special about the Lexus SC 430?

The SC 430's V8 could produce 288 hp (215 kW) and 430 N⋅m (317 lb⋅ft) of torque, allowing the coupe to go from 0–60 mph in 6.2 seconds. In contrast with the previous generation model, the redesigned Lexus SC was intended as a convertible from its inception.

Why did Lexus stop making the SC430?

Demand for the SC 430 has been steady decline for the latter half of the last decade. With the highwater mark set at 14,462 vehicles in 2002, 2009 saw just under 1000 SC 430s sold, with 720 of them in the U.S. In this final year of production, Lexus will produce approximately 300 cars.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Lexus Sc430 years

We have researched Lexus problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lexus Sc430 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lexus Sc430 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lexus Sc430 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Lexus Sc430 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Lexus Sc430 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Lexus Sc430 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Air bags problems
  • Tires problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Lexus Sc430 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Sc430 model years

A total of 14 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Sc430 model years

There were a total of 10 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 132 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lexus Sc430 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lexus Sc430 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Lexus Sc430 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-11-12
  • Date Complaint: 2023-04-26
  • VIN: JTHFN48Y240
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Lexus SC430. The contact stated while driving at 35 MPH, the radio was activated and there was an abnormal sound coming from the antenna. The contact noticed the antenna hanging off the holster and structuring the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 159,000.
Lexus Sc430 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-09-27
  • Date Complaint: 2022-10-02
  • VIN: JTHFN48Y230
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: While driving home one day four warning lights lit up: VSC, VSC OFF, ABS & BRAKE, plus a very loud warning tone. I cautiously drove home thinking at any moment my brakes may not stop the car in time. I arrived at home & parked in the garage. I needed some time to think what I should do. I decided to move the car out of the garage. I started it up and began to back out, I applied the brakes to slow down but it did not. I quickly used the parking brake to stop it. The driveway is steep so I decided the best place for the car would be back in the garage. Now it just sits there while we figure out what to do with it. I found many others that have had this problem. I am so lucky I wasn't driving on the freeway when this happened. I am sure I would have crashed or crashed into someone else! The brakes should never just go out completely. A disaster waiting to happen.
Lexus Sc430 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-11-14
  • Date Complaint: 2021-12-14
  • VIN: JTHFN48Y950
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Takata Recall. The contact owns a 2005 Lexus SC430. The contact received a recall notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V741000 (Air Bags) and drove 5 hours to the only Lexus dealer in the State of Maine. The dealer informed the contact that they would need to repair the vehicle clockspring to clear the air bag warning light prior to completing the recall repair. The contact declined and the dealer refused to complete the recall repair. The contact drove back to his residence. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the air bag warning light had been illuminated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact that the dealer should have completed the recall repair. The manufacturer advised the contact that they would assist with towing the vehicle to the dealer for the recall repair. The contact was awaiting a call back from the manufacturer. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 73,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Lexus Sc430 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-09-02
  • Date Complaint: 2021-09-18
  • VIN: JTHFN48Y030
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: DEALER REFUSED TO MAKE REPAIRS IN ASHEVILLE AFTER MAKING APPOINTMENT TO REPAIR. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE DEALER ADVISED THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE REPAIRED IN-STATE.
Lexus Sc430 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-10-28
  • Date Complaint: 2020-10-28
  • VIN: JTHFN48Y130
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: RECEIVED 3 LETTERS ON RECALL #K6FV-AAE. CALLED TAKATA, LEXUS CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE, AND THE CLOSEST LEXUS DEALERSHIP IN SANTA BARBARA. NOBODY IS FOLLOWING UP. I AM RUNNING A BUSINESS AND CAN ONLY TRAVEL OUT OF TOWN ON SATURDAY AND WILL LOSE AN ENTIRE DAY. NOBODY IS HELPING TO RESOLVE THIS SITUATION OR EVEN MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH LEXUS FOR MY OUT OF TOWN TRIP. NOT HONORING THE RECALL. REQUESTING THAT LEXUS BUY BACK THE DEFECTIVE CAR FOR $15000 AND THEY CAN FIX IT WHENEVER THEY GET AROUND TO IT. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Lexus Sc430 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-08-13
  • Date Complaint: 2020-08-13
  • VIN: JTHFN48YX30
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS SC430. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V741000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. FOX LEXUS OF EL PASO (11165 GATEWAY BLVD W, EL PASO, TX 79935, 915-598-0399) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Lexus Sc430 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-12-10
  • Date Complaint: 2019-12-30
  • VIN: JTHFN48Y120
  • Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 LEXUS SC. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, AN ABNORMAL NOISE WAS HEARD WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL WAS TURNED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. ALSO, WHEN DRIVING OVER A BUMP IN THE ROAD, THE FRONT SUSPENSION PULLED TO THE RIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED AND REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 77,000. *DT CONSUMER REQUESTED ISSUE BE REMOVED FROM YOUR DATABASE.*JB
Lexus Sc430 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-27
  • Date Complaint: 2019-11-27
  • VIN: JTHFN48Y120
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: LEXUS HAS EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME TO PERFORM AIRBAG RECALL REPLACEMENT
Lexus Sc430 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-09-03
  • Date Complaint: 2019-10-15
  • VIN: JTHFN48Y950
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: MY AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON
Lexus Sc430 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-07-18
  • Date Complaint: 2019-03-22
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JTHFN48Y540
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THIS CAR HAS BEEN WRECKED, DUE TO THE AIRBAG, AND THE TITLE WAS HANDED OVER TO THE INSURANCE COMPANY AND THEY ISSUED US A CHECK FOR SETTLEMENT. THE CAR WAS CONSIDERED A TOTAL LOSS. WE NO LONGER OWN THIS CAR; HOWEVER, WE KEEP GETTING 3 OR 4 POSTCARDS EVERY MONTH NOTIFYING US OF THE RECALL. I HAVE MADE COUNTLESS PHONE CALLS TO GET OUR NAMES REMOVED FROM THE RECALL MAILING LIST, TO NO AVAIL. IT IS EMOTIONALLY DISTRESSING TO ME TO SEE THESE POSTCARDS ARRIVING, REMINDING ME OF THE AUTO ACCIDENT THAT ALMOST CLAIMED MY HUSBAND'S LIFE. OUR RECALL I.D. NUMBER IS KB8-42S. WOULD SOMEONE PLEASE REMOVE US FROM THE MAILING LIST. THE ACCIDENT OCCURED ON 7/18/2018 AND THE AIRBAG EXPLODED, CAUSING HIM TO HIT A TREE HEAD ON. HE WAS AIRLIFTED TO A TRAUMA CENTER AND SPENT OVER A WEEK IN INTENSIVE CARE, FOLLOWED BY SEVERAL SURGERIES AND FOLLOW UP HOSPITAL STAYS. PLEASE, SOMEONE, REMOVE US THE LIST.
Lexus Sc430 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2013-04-13
  • Date Complaint: 2019-03-08
  • VIN: JTHFN48Y720
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: GETTING TOTALLY JERKED AROUND THEY CALL AND NEVER FOLLOW UP. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR YEARS. NOT ABLE TO DRIVE THE CAR FOR YEARS NOW.
Lexus Sc430 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-08-27
  • Date Complaint: 2018-08-28
  • VIN: JTHFN48Y369
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA INFLATORS OR POTENTIAL OF RUPTURED INFLATOR ON PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG. I HAVE NOT BEEN CONTACTED REGARDING THIS RECALL AS OF YET AND I DO SEE THIS RECALL WAS ISSUED IN MAY OF 2015. PLEASE NOTE NOTHING HAS HAPPENED BUT MY CAR HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED AND I HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY COMMUNICATION ON THE RECALL AS OF YET.
Lexus Sc430 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-05-06
  • Date Complaint: 2018-05-06
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: THERE IS CONDENSATION IN THE HEAD LAMPS WHICH AFFECTS HOW WELL THEY WORK AT NIGHT. THE CAR HAS NOT BEEN MODIFIED OR HAD ANY TYPE OF INJURY THAT WOULD RESULT IN CONDENSATION BEING INSIDE THE HEADLIGHT COVERS. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. IT IMPAIRS HOW WELL THE HEADLAMPS WORK.
Lexus Sc430 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-09-21
  • Date Complaint: 2017-11-08
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: 2002 LEXUS SC430. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG INFLATOR MODULE SAFETY RECALL. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICOLE WAS TAKEN TO HAVE THE RECALL COMPLETED, BUT WAS TOLD THE ZONE WAS NOT CURRENTLY AUTHORIZED TO COMPLEE THE REPAIR. UPDATED 11/08/2017*JS
Lexus Sc430 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-08-29
  • Date Complaint: 2017-08-29
  • VIN: JTHFN48Y430
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL - WHEN I CHECKED UNDER LEXUS TO SEE IF MY VEHICLE WAS LISTED IT WAS BUT WHEN I PUT IN THE VIN NUMBER IT SAID O - SO I'M CONFUSED WHY WOULD IT SAY YES UNDER LEXUS BUT NOT UNDER THE VIN NUMBER ? IS IT SAFE ?

Latest 5 recalls Lexus Sc430

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the Lexus Sc430.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Lexus Sc430 2002
  • Report Received Date: 2019-10-17
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2016 4Runner, 2003-2006 Tundra, 2003-2013 Corolla, 2009-2010 Corolla Matrix, 2004-2005 RAV4, 2002-2007 Sequoia, 2011-2013 Sienna, 2008-2012 Scion xB, 2008-2009 Lexus IS-F, 2007-2012 Yaris and Lexus ES350, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2002-2010 Lexus SC430, 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 and 2010-2015 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles. These vehicles had their driver or passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front driver inflator, front passenger airbag inflator, the airbag assembly, or the front passenger airbag sub-assembly and inflator. The recall began November 20, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are J0A, J0B, and J0C. Lexus' numbers for this recall are JLI, JLJ, and JLK.
  • Model: Lexus Sc430 2004
  • Report Received Date: 2019-10-17
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2016 4Runner, 2003-2006 Tundra, 2003-2013 Corolla, 2009-2010 Corolla Matrix, 2004-2005 RAV4, 2002-2007 Sequoia, 2011-2013 Sienna, 2008-2012 Scion xB, 2008-2009 Lexus IS-F, 2007-2012 Yaris and Lexus ES350, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2002-2010 Lexus SC430, 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 and 2010-2015 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles. These vehicles had their driver or passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front driver inflator, front passenger airbag inflator, the airbag assembly, or the front passenger airbag sub-assembly and inflator. The recall began November 20, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are J0A, J0B, and J0C. Lexus' numbers for this recall are JLI, JLJ, and JLK.
  • Model: Lexus Sc430 2005
  • Report Received Date: 2019-10-17
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2016 4Runner, 2003-2006 Tundra, 2003-2013 Corolla, 2009-2010 Corolla Matrix, 2004-2005 RAV4, 2002-2007 Sequoia, 2011-2013 Sienna, 2008-2012 Scion xB, 2008-2009 Lexus IS-F, 2007-2012 Yaris and Lexus ES350, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2002-2010 Lexus SC430, 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 and 2010-2015 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles. These vehicles had their driver or passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front driver inflator, front passenger airbag inflator, the airbag assembly, or the front passenger airbag sub-assembly and inflator. The recall began November 20, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are J0A, J0B, and J0C. Lexus' numbers for this recall are JLI, JLJ, and JLK.
  • Model: Lexus Sc430 2003
  • Report Received Date: 2019-10-17
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2016 4Runner, 2003-2006 Tundra, 2003-2013 Corolla, 2009-2010 Corolla Matrix, 2004-2005 RAV4, 2002-2007 Sequoia, 2011-2013 Sienna, 2008-2012 Scion xB, 2008-2009 Lexus IS-F, 2007-2012 Yaris and Lexus ES350, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2002-2010 Lexus SC430, 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 and 2010-2015 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles. These vehicles had their driver or passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front driver inflator, front passenger airbag inflator, the airbag assembly, or the front passenger airbag sub-assembly and inflator. The recall began November 20, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are J0A, J0B, and J0C. Lexus' numbers for this recall are JLI, JLJ, and JLK.
  • Model: Lexus Sc430 2006
  • Report Received Date: 2019-10-17
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2016 4Runner, 2003-2006 Tundra, 2003-2013 Corolla, 2009-2010 Corolla Matrix, 2004-2005 RAV4, 2002-2007 Sequoia, 2011-2013 Sienna, 2008-2012 Scion xB, 2008-2009 Lexus IS-F, 2007-2012 Yaris and Lexus ES350, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2002-2010 Lexus SC430, 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 and 2010-2015 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles. These vehicles had their driver or passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front driver inflator, front passenger airbag inflator, the airbag assembly, or the front passenger airbag sub-assembly and inflator. The recall began November 20, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are J0A, J0B, and J0C. Lexus' numbers for this recall are JLI, JLJ, and JLK.

Latest negative Lexus Sc430 car reviews

  1. Nigel Parisian 2024-11-25

    Vehicle year: 2007

    After only 6k miles, I have noticed 11 paint chips on the hood of my vehicle. Lexus claims it is due to road hazards, but I feel like every stone or pebble on the highway must be hitting me. I have only driven 1k miles on the highway, so how is it possible? Additionally, I have noticed two chips on the chrome around the grill and on the painted plastic. Needless to say, I am very disappointed!

  2. Nigel King 2024-11-15

    Vehicle year: 2003

    Please be advised that driving this car on snowy or icy roads is not recommended due to its lack of traction, even in snow mode. In my experience, Benzs with rear wheel drive at least held the road better. Additionally, it is important to note that this car is best suited for warm climates. Lastly, I have found the new run flat tires to be less than satisfactory, as they tend to lose air and develop bubbles even with minor bumps, which can be particularly inconvenient for those living in NYC.

  3. Jerod Kuvalis 2024-10-26

    Vehicle year: 2007

    We chose this car mainly because of the hardtop convertible feature. Although the performance and drive are not very impressive, the design and comfort are very nice. The car seems to have been designed for an older driving population who want the look of a convertible in a Lincoln Town Car frame. The technology and nav system can be a bit counterintuitive, as the entire system is disabled while driving, so you'll need to park the car before using your nav system or Bluetooth phone. It's important to be aware of Lexus dealers who may not be truthful about this feature. Overall, this car may be somewhat disappointing, but if you're looking for a convertible look that drives like a sedan, then it's the right car for you.

  4. Devante Tillman 2024-10-01

    Vehicle year: 2003

    I owned a 1997 Lexus SC 400 for six years. I had no problems with it except for needing a new battery because I accidentally left the trunk open. However, my new 2002 SC 430 has a rattle on the passenger side. The dealer has been trying to fix it for the last year, but the last attempt two days ago was uncertain.

  5. Fern Ledner 2024-09-05

    Vehicle year: 2008

    I do not recommend this model due to its rough ride and difficulty getting in and out. Based on my experience, I have decided not to consider this model any further.

Latest positive Lexus Sc430 car reviews

  1. Diamond Windler 2024-11-29

    Vehicle year: 2008

    From the moment I took the keys, my life changed. This car looks sexy and handles far better than I expected.

  2. Alberto Graham 2024-11-28

    Vehicle year: 2007

    The 2006 is actually my second SC430. I traded in my 2003 for the newer model. I've owned quite a few performance cars in my time, including Porsches, BMWs, Mercedes, Ferraris, and Corvettes. While it may not be the quickest or the fastest, it's definitely the most comfortable to drive, especially on long trips. I really enjoy owning this car.

  3. Hilbert Gaylord 2024-11-21

    Vehicle year: 2005

    We have two Lexus cars in our household and both of them are exceptional value. We test drove all German imports and found that the Lexus is superior in design, reliability and price. Even though we could afford any traditional vehicle under 150k, we have chosen Lexus as the clear winner when comparing to other cars in the same price range and even above. I used to be an S-class owner but after all the problems we had with a 90k dollar vehicle, I will NEVER go back to Benz. So, my advice to you is to compare wisely. If I had to pick a second choice, it would clearly be the Audi A-8 in the W12 configuration. The BMW doesn't even come close. Have fun with any purchase!

  4. Harold Schroeder 2024-11-21

    Vehicle year: 2007

    This automobile is the best I've had in my 24 years of driving experience. The ride is very well balanced and the attention to detail in the interior is uncompromising. The engine is very powerful and has great torque. Most importantly, there is no wind at 90 mph on freeways! I just love it!

  5. Bobbie Nader 2024-11-20

    Vehicle year: 2003

    The SC430 is a fantastic car to drive and it stands out from other high-end sports cars due to its rarity on the road. However, one issue to note is that the run flat tires can be quite expensive, with a cost of $295 each and only available at the dealership in Orlando.

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