sayow

I currently own 3 nice LS400s and am ready to step up to the 460, bypassing the 430. I am scheduled to go drive an 09 460L with about 80k on the clock tomorrow. Car seems to have every single option from AWD to reclining rear seats and a window sticker of over 90k when new.

Anyway my question is what to look for and/or avoid on this model. For instance most 400 owners know that the air ride suspension is more trouble than its worth and the power steering is the weak link in an otherwise very reliable car.

Any pitfalls in the 460?

Also, have been reading about "self healing" clear coat paint on the 2010's and on. Is this or any other features worth avoiding previous years?

Thanks in advance,

Rich

dal20402

Look in the car's service history to see if front control arms were replaced in 2011 or later. If not, pay very careful attention to the steering, to the far inside edges of the tires, and to any clunking noises on hard braking or sharp turns. Failing control arm bushings seem to be far and away the most common issue on early (2007-10) cars.

Look to see if there is any odd behavior (loud clicking noises, unexpected response to pedal input) from the brakes. The brake actuator can be troublesome.

Drive it at low rpm for a while and then see if the engine hesitates when you put your foot in it.

Your car probably has the Mark Levinson system. The amplifiers in early cars fail occasionally. If it's already been repaired, that should give you a bit more peace of mind.

Those are really the only common issues with these cars.

R Z

It's important to make sure the car gets a once over either by Lexus or reputable shop. As mentioned the control arms can be a concern. Not every car has the problem. There's another thing mentioned and that is wind noise. The small triangular cover in front of the front windows may leak air. Some claim the windows make the noise.

As long as you have the length in your garage, the L is 5 inches longer than the base model. My neighbor couldn't get the L to fit in her garage. So be sure.

Great car. Good luck.

dlbuckls10

An extended warranty could help. Check for accidents. Is the interior and exterior in excellent shape and the LS looks well taken care of? Make sure everything works. Have the control arms and suspension checked. A good service history with all the recalls is important. Contact the previous owner if possible. Ask questions now and not later.