Jbthompson

Hi everyone. Long time reader on this forum! I have owned two LS430s, and I just love them. I am currently driving a 98 LS400 that i got this summer that is in need of some work but at 133k miles, its in great shape. The LS400 is gonna need about 1500 bucks in suspension and cluster repair to get her back to great condition, and I have been thinking about that.

Fast forward to today. I came across a 2001 LS430 UL with 98k miles on it, in great shape. Timing belt done but the rear air shock is leaking. I am really tempted! I owned an UL a few years ago but got scared away from it when the front shocks leaked and the front end was laying on the floor of my driveway. Should I run from another UL?

Lavrishevo

iTrader: (1)

It will cost you $1200 - $1500 to replace the suspension going non air. Otherwise, the UL's are great. Only the air shocks are prone to failure. You can also source a used air shock for about $150.

SaleenS7

I think it all comes down to price, personal preference, and condition. Assuming the price is right for you and you prefer the UL package then why not? My own criteria was to find an 04+ with sport suspension and nav with black interior. I'm happy with it but I likely would have settled for another option package if the price was right. I don't know if I would have purchased one without smart access though..

Are you looking to sell the LS400 or keep it as well?

Jbthompson

Probably gonna sell the LS400. Price on the UL is 7k. I think that's a steal

SaleenS7

Sounds like a good deal.

If I was riding as a rear passenger I would love the UL package. Pure luxury.

Lavrishevo

iTrader: (1)

I love my UL. Even as the driver you gain some perks. The laser or radar cruise is fantastic on road trips. The like the air suspension. Comfort most of the the time and sport mode when I want it.

SaleenS7

That's a great point. I drove an S500 with the radio cruise and it was amazing.

I've driven a fairly new UL in sport mode a few years ago and it still felt 'floaty' for my taste. Similar to GEN2 LS400s. The sport package really isn't that much sportier per say but it feels more 'connected' somehow. No doubt it's because of the lack of air ride. I guess it's one of those personal preference things but both are great choices regardless.

I know some would say get a BMW if you want a connected feel but I'd rather sacrifice the 'sporty' aspect since these cars excel in just about every other category; Mainly reliability, ease of working on and of course the iconic design based off the Mercedes W140.

warminwisc

You could prolly get a 2001 Camry Limited for 7 g's also. What dealer did ya say that was? What where their hours?

Jbthompson

Thanks all. Yes I definitely prefer the UL, I love all the details that make these cars special. I just swore off the UL after my last one. Ugh. Conflicted. I am still getting more info on the car to help make a good decision.

I'm not a huge fan of the cherry red wood. You guys like it?

Gene01

If you like the DRCC (Dynamic Radar Cruise Control) or DLCC (Dynamic Laser Cruise Control), but don't want the air suspension, you can get a Custom Luxury car. Of course, you also give up the other UL features (e. g. rear seat package). I think the UL is fantastic.

honasbone

I'm certainly diggin' my '01 UL. I installed the rear sway bar from the sport suspension which made a nice, if not subtle change to the suspension. The car seems to ride a little flatter generally. Certainly not a sport feel in general, but that air suspension is pretty remarkable for comfort.

Legender

If you're not interested... let me know where we can find a deal like that. That price is what some people are asking for LS400...
So yes... run from this deal, and tell us where you're running from

BradTank

Are you comfortable with the idea of swapping from the original air suspension to the conventional steel coil and struts?

If you got a Lexus dealer and get 4 new air bags, you're probably looking at around $5,000. If you go online and do the work yourself, probably $4,000.

If you put in Lexus OEM steel coils and struts, you're probably looking at around $1,400 in parts.
So it's a huge difference. I personally think it's a no-brainer to convert, but some feel differently.

If the car is on the original air bag and one has already blown, it's probably due for all 4, so I would definitely add the price. Age is a factor with these, so being nearly 14 years old and one already going out, it's inevitable.

Jbthompson

Well I think I am going to move forward on this one. Hoping to get the car this weekend!

DavidinCT

Good luck !