Hello there.... first time poster. Got a few questions about a 98 LS400 (30K miles) which I'd purchased a couple of months ago. Runs excellent, but there's a couple of issues that maybe you might be able to advise me on?

1. The first time the brake pedal is depressed, there is a slight "clack" sound heard in the rear. After that, no other noise. The braking dosen't seem to be impeded in any way, nor is the visual indicator on. Is that something I need to be concerned about, or endemic to this car? (The Lexus came on the heels of a Vanden Plas, which had its own little idiosyncrasies.... didn't know if Lexus has a few as well).

2. The steering wheel makes a sight scratching noise whenever I make a turn. It's not obstructed in any way, it's just an irritating sound somewhat akin to running your fingernails over a sheet of paper. Is there anything I can try or look for?

3. Is there anything in particular I should look for? Recalls, service bulletins? Anything known about this model year?

3. Which dealership would you recommend to go to in the Atlanta area? I was thinking Hennessey Lexus in Duluth, but would appreciate all opinions. I was advised to stay away from Nalley by a few people.

Thanks!!! I appreciate all opinions. Have yourselves a safe and happy New Year!!!

 

Hey...any takers? Also... was wondering if any of you guys had installed aftermarket Nav systems in your Lexes or what your recommendations are?
Thanks..... learnt quite a bit perusing thru some of the archives, by the way!

 

97 LS400. Similar sound heard at initial depress of brake pedal from cold start. Especially pronounced when wheels are wet or just washed. No other trouble present.

 

I have a 98 too. The click sound you heard when you first press the brake is actually the activation of a switch according to my dealer. Nothing to concren about.

 

Try the delareship off peachtree Ind.
I am not sure which one it is but they have excelllent service.
They even decoded my radio for free.

 

1. The first time the brake pedal is depressed, there is a slight "clack" sound heard in the rear. After that, no other noise. The braking dosen't seem to be impeded in any way, nor is the visual indicator on. Is that something I need to be concerned about, or endemic to this car? (The Lexus came on the heels of a Vanden Plas, which had its own little idiosyncrasies.... didn't know if Lexus has a few as well).

You may want to replace the brake hardware (the clips that hold the brake pads)

2. The steering wheel makes a sight scratching noise whenever I make a turn. It's not obstructed in any way, it's just an irritating sound somewhat akin to running your fingernails over a sheet of paper. Is there anything I can try or look for?

If you can take the steering wheel off to check on anything got loose.

What options does the car has?
May I ask how much did you pay for the car? I am shopping a LS for my wife.

 

Hi VQT.... thx for your response. Let's see..... it was advertised as having the "premium" package...wood steering wheel & shifter, nakamichi stereo etc.. no nav nor air suspension, and cost 29K plus tax, title and reg. fees, at a dealership in Alpharetta, Ga. They also put on new Michelin Pilots, and threw in a set of new Lexus floor mats. Oh, lest I forget, they pulled out all the stops and threw in a free six pack of coke...
Of course, after going thru the whole buying experience, and proudly Zainoing the car, my wife threw into it a couple of booster seats, and "claimed" it Prior to purchase, I ran a carfax, as well as checked maintenance records, and got in contact with the previous owner to make sure everything was copacetic. And prayed a lot.....
..... Anyways, happy hunting, and I hope you find what you're looking for at the best price you can get it for.

 

The clacking sound is what my ES makes as well, it is built with the selector of the shifter so that when you depress the brake pedal it allows you to move the shift ****.