Damaster32

iTrader: (8)

Hey guys,

New to the Sc430 forums, been over at the 2 gen IS. I currently just finished parting out my Is250.

Been looking into an sc430 and have a couple questions.

1. Between 02- now, was there any changes to the body of the car, front/rear bumpers??

2. How is the V8? any major service/ maintenance.

3. Is there a year range which I should be looking at that comes with better features?

4. Does any year model have the Push button start with the fob lexus key like the IS

Thanks
Stan

PhilipMSPT

iTrader: (5)

1) Big change was in 2006+. New grill, headlights, LED tails, bumpers, and I think standard Bluetooth. Same engine, but transmission changed from 5-speed to 6-speed. Everything else is cosmetic, like new colors, wheels, button fonts, and Special Editions.

2) The SC is one of the most reliable cars out there. The V8 is aged; you can get a lot more power in some current V6 and turbo-4s now. Engine is super smooth though. Most people have never had engine issues with the GS/SC/LS 430.

3) Well, 2006+ have better upgrades. The 2010 was the last year, and it finally got rid of the cassette deck with that one.

4) Nope. The SC430 never had it. Other things the SC never had that I wish it did are parking sensors, rear view camera, and a stubby antenna.

mandyfig

Item 4, there is an aftermarket option, Luxlink that can do remote start plus a ton of other things. Check the for sale section, some people are selling their brand new in the box units. Otherwise contact luxlink directly if interested.

Good luck with your search, and yes go for the 06+.

Harold57

Welcome to the SC430 forum.

Be sure to check out the stickies at the top of the forum page. There is one that revolves around purchasing a SC430 and what to look for and what the various changes were over time.

JPBJR

Harold's words of wisdom are right on! Before I bought my SC I spent literally hours carefully reading that sticky as well as just looking on the Forum for general information on this great car. Good luck!

Tensi

2010 was the last year?

Scarletti

yep. So now the SC is a very reliable luxury modern classic

Yes

Looks like all of your questions were answered. But for advice on the model year you should look for, it depends on your budget and what you plan to do. If you have the money and don't mind spending it, 06+ is the way to go. But if your budget is limited and you're planning to do a full body kit, you might consider going with an 02-05. For the same amount of money (or less), I'd prefer an 02 with a kit, wheels, coilovers and head/taillight upgrades over a stock 06.

barncat

Let me add my 2 cents. I went for an 03 with low miles (38k) and a great, clean service history. The belt had been replaced at 37k and it was a one-owner. I figured an 06 at the time would have been about 10k more money and it's a pleasure car for me; not a daily driver. With the savings I got rid of the run-flats and bought custom wheels. I am extremely happy so far!

jasone36

I got a well services 2002 and am very happy with it. That being said, the ride is certainly harsher than an IS (even with non runflats), but I guess that's part of the "sports-car" looking experience