Audio System NOT working??? '98
 

Does anyone have any ideas as to why this stereo isn't producing sound:
I have an opportunity to purchase a 1998 LS400 at a great price. However, I tried the radio on several stations ( AM and FM) and could not receive the station. Then I tried the cd in various disc slots and the cd did not play, I did not even try the cassette player. The stereo is on and appears ok but it doesn't play. I don't know if its worth it to repair or replace the stereo. Does anyone have knowledge of how to diagnose this problem? Or where to get a replacement stereo at a good price? Thanks!

It could be the amplifier. Does the antenna go up and down properly? Does it tune to a station just not giving you sound or does it continually scan for a station?

For repair:

http://www.carstereohelp.com/lexus.htm

sounds like the amp is dead.

I second this. I've seen this happen from time to time on 2nd gens.