nmikmik

I am planning on buying a 97 LS400 for awhile now . Heard about the ball-joints issues i.e. possible replacement needed.
Questions:
a. Does 97 have the side and curtain air bags or either of them was an option?
b. Was the 97 a beginning, middle or the end year of this design? Or was there anything specific for this year to look for?
c. Should I drive the car around a block or take it to a mechanic?

Thanks!

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Any number of suspension areas can be due for replacement. Strut bar/caster bar is tops. Then the ball joints, tie rod ends, etc.

a. No side curtain, side air bag from front passenger and driver seats.
b. The '97 is the ~MC meaning the 98+ had the tear drop headlights and HID options, changed front fascia basically and some interior updates. 98-'00 was the last year in the body.
c. if you can get service history on it through the dealer by running the VIn and have a mechanic look it over.

What price and miles it this one being offered at?

nmikmik

Thanks RA40!

I will most likely take it to the Firestone and have them do their 150 point inspection - if you want to trust that I think my AAA will pay for it.
But the car is here in SoCal offered for $6k and has like 150k mi I think. Second or third owner, but I still yet to see it.
I see very similar vehicle with 160k mi at the local dealerships for about the same amount of $$, but I am not sure if want to go the dealership route
Any advise if either is any close to been a good deal?
Oh, and when they started with the curtain air bags?

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

dont take it to firestone. any toyota or lexus dealership will do the same diagnostic with techs who are far more comfortable with the car for ~$80-120.

keep in mind that there is a ~800-1000usd timing belt service due at every 90k miles. so make sure it was done already on your car and keep in mind it will be due again in 30k miles...

nmikmik

Thanks,

I will most like just do that. Looking forward to becoming an LS owner

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Head airbags were in the LS430's. If an updated safety spec is a high priority, the 430 is more up to date. The 400 is a solid car though each generation integrates the safety improvements. Watching the 430 NTHSA crash videos on YT the 430 does very well.

At $6K, this is a bit high but not out of line. Provided the rest of the car is in very good condition and with the service schedule met. Keep an eye for the 98+. The VVTi engine and electronics are nice features.