I am thinking of buying a 1998 LS400 and I wanted to know if there are any common issues I should consider in my decision.

I bought an SC400 a couple months ago and it seems solid, except for the occasional ABS/TRAC light showing up.

Is there anything that may show up in LS400 ownership that may be common?

Thanks,

Don

 

in all honesty they are very reliable just things like suspension bushes ball joints engine mounts that wear out that can cost alot of money to fix also check the hood stays up when opened make sure everything works.

 

the LCD for the radio on pioneer models can frequently go bad, and many will just decide to replace the entire head unit. if you have the stock pioneer audio (not nakamichi) then that radio model is the KEX-M9076ZT and corresponding LCD is CWM5077 and is about $115. the installation is pretty straightforward, the only thing easy to miss are two metal clips that need to be pulled when removing the center air vent/hazard switch assy. the clips are on the sides of the assy and can be easily pulled out with a small screwdriver. otherwise just make sure to change fluids regularly and be gentle when the car is still cold

 

common issues on the LS400 are front lower strut rod bushings deteriorating depending on road conditions and driving habits, power steering leak (all lexus/toyota really), transmission mount usually at the 100-150k mark, and rear carrier bushings. FYI the 98-00 SC400 shares the same engine as a 98-00 LS400, same with the earlier models.

relative to the main components of the car, listed above are very minor and are typical with old cars. engine (make sure timing belt is done every 90k), driveline transmission, AC system, are all solid and reliable! mileage and how the previous owner performed maintenance is really the key to getting a solid car (as with any used car).