Reliability on 98-00 LS
05-17-14, 10:30 AM
#1
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Reliability on 98-00 LS
Hey all, I have an is300 sportcross that I was considering selling/trading for an LS400...likely a 98-2000 model. Whats the ups and downs of owning one? The IS isn't too shabby itself I'm just curious as to how the LS' track record is
05-17-14, 10:36 AM
#2
dude, its the most reliable luxury car in the world. In 2007 consumer reports reported that a 98 ls400 has less problems than a new benz.
Find a clean one and you can't go wrong.
I wish my 2000 LS were clean enough to trade with you.
Find a clean one and you can't go wrong.
I wish my 2000 LS were clean enough to trade with you.
05-17-14, 04:37 PM
#3
On the 1 to 10 reliability scale, it scores a 13
Like any car though there are some faults that may need to be corrected with time.
The Power steering pumps tend to start leaking, which in turn will fry the alternator if it continues.
The front strut rod bushings will likely be worn out which will cause some funny front end noises.
Sometimes the capacitors in the ECU will start to go south and cause some weird driveability problems. All are not too difficult to fix though.
Those are the only real faults that come to mind.
Like any car though there are some faults that may need to be corrected with time.
The Power steering pumps tend to start leaking, which in turn will fry the alternator if it continues.
The front strut rod bushings will likely be worn out which will cause some funny front end noises.
Sometimes the capacitors in the ECU will start to go south and cause some weird driveability problems. All are not too difficult to fix though.
Those are the only real faults that come to mind.
Last edited by YoshiMan; 05-17-14 at 04:40 PM.
05-17-14, 08:00 PM
#4
The track record is great just make sure to find one with lots of maintenance records so you can know what was already done on the car or proof from DIYers like the ppl on this forum. Everybody should have receipts or pics of all work done. I know I do.
05-19-14, 10:55 AM
#5
funny i just sold my 02 sportcross a month ago (too many cars, not bc i didn't like it), and i still have my 97 LS. the IS was fine but wasn't as refined as the older LS. the IS is a blast to drive, very fast, and nimble. it cannot be compared to the LS in driveability but the LS blows it out of the water as far as reliability and comfort.
i would say the maintenance was about the same on both cars, but like i said, the LS is much more refined and felt a bit more special. the LS does better in gas mileage too; IS averaged 20mpg and my 97 does 22mpg. newer 98-up cars are upgraded to a 5-speed auto and will do even better mileage.
it really comes down to reference. many find the LS to be bland coming from a sporty car like the IS, but i adore the LS more. i do miss the sportcross now that you mentioned it!
i would say the maintenance was about the same on both cars, but like i said, the LS is much more refined and felt a bit more special. the LS does better in gas mileage too; IS averaged 20mpg and my 97 does 22mpg. newer 98-up cars are upgraded to a 5-speed auto and will do even better mileage.
it really comes down to reference. many find the LS to be bland coming from a sporty car like the IS, but i adore the LS more. i do miss the sportcross now that you mentioned it!
05-22-14, 09:35 PM
#6
I had a 98 for four years and had no problems. I totaled the 98 and bought a 99 because it was the most trouble free car I ever owned. I have had the 99 for more than 5 years now and, knock on wood, no problems(with the exception of a pre-mature alternator replacement out of haste, turns out the alternator was fine). Just so you know, I also own a 2002 LS430, a 93 Acura Legend, and a 93 Honda Del Sol all of which have had issues. My 99 LS400.....ROCK SOLID..and I drive it hard EVERYDAY. Real hard!!!
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