So I'm in the market for a daily driver now. I sold my ls430 that I had for 2 years and only put about 11k on it.
I wanna stay in the ls family since I have 2 kids and another one the way.
So my price range is 3-4k.
I've found 3 ls400s in that price range. With decent low miles140-160k.
I just want to know what problems I should look out for when I'm looking at the cars in person. Besides the usual timingbelt and water pump.
I last owned a ls400 back when I was 18-19. That was 13 years ago lol.
Ps I have a obd2 code reader also

 

OBD2 is from 95 on Lexus as far as I know, to now. OBD2 started in all cars in 1996. Problems ? I would say any repaint and body work is a problem. Any leaks, any suspension problems, looking at the belly for signs of being a low rider at one time. Things like exhaust mods and other signs of being a kids car that could be hammered.
Aftermarket electronics usually means someone has fooled with the cars electrics, and could be a sign of future problems. Try to get or see any maintenance records.

 

I can deal with car mods. But this is gonna be stock as possible. Besides tint and maybe a navigation installed from garbage mods to professional mods. I've does mods to all my cars. With quality parts and professional installation.
And yeah obd2 is for 95 and up.

 

Gun for a 98+ if you can swing it. The added safety features (curtain airbags and greatly improved stability control), fuel economy, power, and updated look are well worth the money.

There are a few common issues threads linked int he UCF20 FAQ stickied at the top of the forum.

 

If it was me personally, I would look for a higher mileage, like 200k+ LS400, second gen, 95-97 or 98-00. My reasoning behind this is, you'll weed out all the above 90k-150k LS400 that have yet to have their T-belts replaced, strut bushings, balljoints etc. These engines are bulletproof and will last multiple T-belt changes without a sweat.

Many people drive beyond or well beyond the 1st T-belt interval and then sell the car after they've pushed their limit on how far they think they could go on the original belt. Usually they're sitting at this mileage with original seals and ignition components, waiting for you to replace when you buy them.

If you find a car after 200k that was still garage kept and detailed every so often, then there is a better chance that all the things that would've gone wrong are already fixed due to the amount of miles.

Things like the T-belt, water pump, cam and crank seals, plugs, wires and gaskets would most likely be taken care of and replaced with new at this point with the previous owner expending all the funds to do so.

 

this would be a good suggestion. I actually found a great condition 98 in black for 2500 w/ 233k on my local OfferUp app. I would be tempted to get it, though I have already put in so much maint. in my 97, and I know the history of mine.

 

I am very happy with my 1999. Has a little things that still need to be completed. But already did my Timing belt service with new seals, pulleys, tensioners, and accessory belt. I also pulled my plugs, which were shot. I also changed out my ECT Sensor. I also did my filters... All in, I am in my car for $2800. This is including all that I just mentioned

 

98-00 ls400, you won't regret it

 

That $3-4K budget is that total or the base for the car? Losiracer2's comments about those in the 200K mile range are good thoughts. Personally I'd want the lower miles and perform the basic maintenance. However if it needs lots than that becomes a financial consideration.

 

Thanks for the help everyone.. I will keep everything in mind. I'm still hunting.
For some reason the prices for the late ls400s Are going high out hear in the san francisco bay area. 200+k looking like garbage or with 22in. Wheels smh

 

Your in cali, LS's there are a dime a dozen, i would go for a 98-00 if you can. Its a more decent downgrade then a 95-97, and the power is still there and similar to that of the ls430 at a fraction of the price.