yotaman223

Ok so im new here but not to the internet forums or wrenching on cars, and im getting rid of 88 4runner because i want to get something else for college. I have decided on the ls400, because i like the idea of having a nice car, i love the 4.0 v8, and its another toyota. So from my research, i think i want a 90-96 because after that they have that dash cluster issue. So that being said, what other issues should i look out for, or any concerns about these cars, etc. I have a little bit of a gameplan of where i want to take the car; coil overs, and 19's. I think i want the black/grey. So if anyone has any advice for me id greatly appreciate it!

SpencerT

Where did you hear that 90-96 dont have cluster issues? That is 100% not correct...

SC400slide

iTrader: (11)

I did a "The most reliable Lexus Made" thread, and first place was the 2nd Gen LS. Second was the LS400's. I don't think there are any really bad issues with these, just look at the ratings from owners. LS400 is a good choice.

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Any of the LS400's are nice choices depending on conditions. Each has exhibited some issue to overcome as they age. The 1LS being older will have gone through more aging pains. If I were to suggest an LS400, it would be the 98+. If you find a good sample in any year, they can be fantastic cars.

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

you realize that a second gen LS is an LS400 lol

racersky

iTrader: (2)

So far the only problems I've had with my car is AC stop working but I will have that checked out soon, Sunroof won't close, and my gas needle goes a little crazy at time but none of these affect the drive ability of the car.

yotaman223

Thanks for the relpies guys! I read somewhere on the interwebs that something goes wrong with the gauge cluster lighting or it stops working, i dont know, that's just what i read. But if you guys say there's nothing wrong with any of the years that makes it easier for me! And this might be a dumb question, but what's the difference between the 1st and 2nd gen ls400?

Kansas

Read this: http://www.lexls.com/info/lsgenerations.html

yotaman223

sweet man thanks. Ok so next question, actually two. I come from the world of offroad so im used to installing lockers and gears etc. What are the options for an LSD or a posi for the ls400? I know it might not be necessary, but one wheel peel is lame. Second, is what do you guys run for exhaust? My truck now is curently very , very loud but i was thinking for this i'd want it to be more tasteful. I was looking at borla or magnaflow. What do you guys think? Also when i get my LS, i plan to have around 2k after registration to dump into it, just in case that changes any of your answers to my many questions. Thanks again!

dengman

those two questions come up alot. do a search. From what I've been reading supra guts will fit in the 98+ pumpkin. Exhaust comes down to style of the tip and muffler coming out the rear. Depending how low you plan on being I guess.

yotaman223

well i guess i should do coil overs and wheels before i do exhaust then. I guess all my questions have been answered so far, until i get the car that is. Thanks guys!

SpencerT

89-97 ls400 all have cluster issues. From sticky or erractic needles to lights going out.
98+ is probably the same I just havent looked into those...

RA40

iTrader: (6)

If you are fortunate you'll get a great sample right off where the maintenance is current. With many of these at higher miles, your $2K extra funds will likely go towards maintenance. The FAQ covers many issues that we are coming across as they age.

yotaman223

Yea i was anticipating to have to timing belt and all that fun stuff, which on these seems rather involved. Hopefully the one i get will have recently had that done. Another question, how often should the tranny filter be changed on these? I have only owned an automatic for about 3k miles so im not sure of their maintenance. I've worked on them plenty but ive never actually maintained one, because i swapped it

SpencerT

The tranny filter on these cars is reusable. It is just a mesh screen that you can rinse out and reuse