Mikes93LS4

I bought a 1993 Lexus LS 400 about a month and a half ago. Around January 15, 2015. I work in sales for a very established car company and this was a car I saw on our back lot. I know it looked really good and clean inside and out so I bought it for around $2100.00 and some change title, tax, tags, etc... I figured it was a good buy considering it only had 134,000 mi on it. I was thinking it was a 98 but it turned out to be a 93 which I thought was even better because it seemed to be low miles. I've been reading different sites and blogs about these cars and it seems they exceed the expectations I thought. I'm still unsure to the extent. How good of a buy was this? Was this a good buy? Someone tell me please. Some options on the car are, air suspension, sport, height, and power ect buttons? Everything is factory and original including the radio and everything works expect the speedo needle. Everything is power with memory, even the head rest and seat belt height adjusters, power everything. I've replaced the alternator and serpentine belt, well not myself... There's only one small tear in the driver's seat left bolster. All other leather is in mint condition. Power steering leaks. Haven't put any more power steering fluid in there because found out it was causing the white smoke on startup. How much harm in not putting in power steering fluid? All comments, criticisms, and concerns welcome.

billydpowe

iTrader: (1)

do NOT put power steering fluid in it.. read your manual FIRST and read the stickies at the top of the forum before you mess something up, they will last forever but YOU need to know the car... YES, it is a good buy... all you need is on here, but read read read..

dicer

Dexron automatic transmission fluid in the power steering, it even says that on the cap on the power steering pump.

Gene01

The PS fluid is probably leaking on to the alternator. I would recommend fixing it quickly, before you need to buy a new alternator also.

Mikes93LS4

Thanks for the knowledge everyone. I have been doing a lot of reading. I never put any ps fluid in. I was just wondering was it very bad to not put any fluid in there at all? I've been driving without power steering until I can get it fixed.

dicer

If the serpentine belt is going to the powersteering pump and thus the pump is turning, you will just burn up the pump. When it locks up the belt will burn up and break then the alternator will not charge the battery the fan won't turn, AC won't work.

Mikes93LS4

I see.... I believe that's probably what happened, So now I'll have to replace the power steering pump... Damn! Where's the mechanics in MEMPHIS?

timmy0tool

iTrader: (7)

a pump that is pumping dry is WORSE that using the wrong fluid. the leak is most likely the IACV which is covered here many times over. either plug it up, or replace. search, fix, and enjoy.

yes only use DEX III automatic trans fluid in the power steering, as indicated!