Hi,

My wife bought a 94 LS400 about a year ago to commute from Yuma to Phoenix, and found it had bad suspension, brakes, seatbelt, finicky stereo and headlights, and an engine oil leak. We replaced the suspension and brakes, and paid to fix what we thought was THE oil leak. Now we're looking at an estimate for $2400, same oil leak, that she absolutely does not want to pay. I'd hate to let the car go after putting all that work into it, and I'd hate to let someone take it w/o knowing the details. We won't be driving it for a while, and she sent her sister a POA to sell it.

The car's got about 200k on the clock. We would only use it 2-3 months in the next 2 years but family could use it whenever they visit. I'd like to know if it's worth fixing the oil leak, and what other common problems could we run into on a car this old?

Is this a good entrance?!?

 

Welcome to Club Lexus.

Where is the oil leaking and what is listed in the estimate as being replaced?

 

If you're ever in the eastern part of the Phoenix valley (East Mesa), I've got a recommendation for a Lexus-only mechanic. Great prices and competent work. He's even a little flexible on the prices.

 

This car definetly worth fixing my 93 Lexus ls400 has 321k and is still running strong and smooth don't be discouraged this car is a solid build and design

 

I'm not sure where the oil is leaking. She said the mechanic said something about a plug needing to be replaced and the engine has to be removed for that. The car is actually in Mesa. Can you PM me the mechanic's info?

 

Welcome.
DON'T let your lexus go because of an oil leak. I mean, how bad of a leak are we talking?
My 97 leaks a little bit. I check the levels and top off every couple of weeks. Mine is leaking from the rear main seal, which yes, is bad and the trans has to be removed to install a new one.
I still feel like it doesn't leak bad enough to have my car down or pay outrageous prices to get fixed. I'm fine with topping off every now and then for now. So I'd say unless you LS is just gushing oil, you'll be fine and just keep an eye on it.
Hope this help ease your mind a little. lol

 

I'd also like to add that I recently changed my valve cover gaskets, grommets and plug seals (also spark plugs and plug wires) and this significantly reduced my oil leak.

 

The Lexus looks like RA40's, but with OEM chrome 5-spokes on it. I'm trying to convince the wife to consider another mechanic (the one SammySnit recommended) but she's not budging. I'm putting off listing it for as long as I can, and will take a look at it myself when I'm in town. Thanks for the replies!

 

Welcome to CL!!

 

perhaps rather than trading the car, it's time to trade in the wife

 

LOL !

the oil leak could be the power steering. you need to asses the car yourself, or a better mechanic.

 

if the right fluid has been used, an "oil leak" coming from the power steering system will be a red fluid, since it is Dexron transmission fluid, or is supposed to be, in the PS system - pretty obvious whether it is oil or Dexron on your finger!

 

Back from the dead, she found a mechanic and had the work done. She's happy with it and the Lexus has a new lease on life!

 

Glad to hear and thanks for finishing up a thread.

 

Nice, congrats!