jb904

so i purchased a 98 LS400 with 98,000 miles and the car runs smooth. the only thing i have caught so far thats a prob. is a small leak from the top radiator hose. after looking thru the maintenance records the last time it was brought into the Lex dealership for maintenance inspection was in 2001!!not sure if the owner decided to go to an independent car shop afterwards or what the case may be but i want to bring my new toy back up to speed. i need a list of things to do...any and all input on what i should check/replace is needed...thanks!!

LiCelsior

iTrader: (32)

first thing to check is if the Timing Belt was done at 90k or if any service was done at 90k....what is said when it was brought in, in 01?

thadword

Get a full tune-up first and foremost!

MEANDAFAKA

^agree, and all this shouldn't be "too" expensive.

TJW98LS

iTrader: (1)

Some people disagree, but for BIG maintenance like the 90K Service, I take to the Dealership. You might want to check the timing belt and water pump.

fangtl

Since you are the owner now, you can go to the Lexus dealership and ask for all records for your VIN. If you suspect you need a timing belt/water I'd suggest getting it done rather than wait, whether it's by a dealer or not. I am the opposite of TJW98LS, for an older car like this that's not worth a whole lot I'd just go to a trusted indi-shop and pocket the rest for a nice dinner out (or two) with the wife.

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

seconded, just make sure to have a shop you trust.

jb904

Thanks for all the input everyone....I went and got what i could from the Lex dealership. Luckily they had a lot more records (up to the present date) than what the previous owner kept in the glove box (up to 2001). Regular maintenance while the car was under warranty was done but nothing major was done engine wise. Biggest thing i seen was a transmission flush Oct 08. Looks like im past due for the 90k maintenance...i seen another post with what i need for that so i guess i'll be shelling out some money!!! the price to pay while driving luxury i guess LOL...

TJW98LS

iTrader: (1)

Think of it as... an investment. Because as long as you keep oil, gas, and tires in good shape, that thing could just about run forever. That's the beauty of Lexus engineering.

Broker404

Exactly. It's really a pretty cheap car to own and maintain. Considering the very low depreciation I've had in the past 3 years of owning my 99 LS400, it's been one of the lowest cost options I could have possibly made for a car.