hammann007

Hello All,

I am a new member and I am thinking of buying a 2001 LS430 for long term use. I have a concern about the air suspension that came with the ultra pkg. Is it possible to swap the air suspension to a regular suspension? Also, any advice on what to look for on the 01 LS would be much appreciated.

Thanks

junjdm

Why would you wanna do that? The air supspension is so nice! Rides so smooth, you might as well get a regular LS if your concerned about that, in my opinion....UL is the real deal....

tham430

I don't think the suspension is a major issue. If you do checks on Lexus reliaility for the 01, you'll find that there's been a very small amount of major problems.

I would ensure the tires are OEM, or you could end up very dissatisfied with the ride and excessive road noise. I would also look at all the airfilters i.e. Engine, A/C in the glove box, and rear A/C. These are not extremely expensive, however if you can get them changed by the dealer, do so. I would also check the engine belt for cracks etc. You might need a flash light to get a good look. I would look at the front and rear struts as well to see if there's any sign of leaking or cracking in the rubber boots.

Make sure all the electronic goodies work, and you should be a happy camper.

One other thing you may encounter is the drivers door powerlock actuator goes bad and it cost around $700 but you can get it from some of the parts stores on this web site for about $180, and either put it in yourself or get someone other than Lexus to do it.

TIM

mixednuts

The Air Suspension components should last longer than they do. I have had 5 struts and one sensor replaced to date, under warranty. The Struts are priced at $1100 each at the dealer. Having driven one with oil filled struts and air struts, I notice no difference in ride comfort.

b8b

Tim,

Where do you review these checks for reliability? Do you mean edmunds.com and MSN cars? Somewhere on ClubLexus? I've been searching the forums...

I am concerned about the air suspension on a 2001 LS430 Ultra I am about to buy (this weekend)... wondering if this might cost me more than it's worth.

TIA.

B.

alanchad

iTrader: (1)

I purchased my 2001 LS430UL new.

125k miles now.

No problem with the air suspension.

Make sure the parking sensors are working properly. Sometimes they get dinged with a rock, etc and false. Very expensive to replace.

The windshield is also $$$, so make sure no cracks, etc.

Best car I have ever owned (including Mercedes).

Alan

b8b

Thanks, Alan! On the '01 LS430 I am hoping to buy today they offered to replace the windshield or put $219 towards the suspension repair (discussed in this post) - sounds like I should go for the windshield instead?!

alanchad

iTrader: (1)

That would be an aftermarket windshield almost certainly.

In 04, I paid 756.45 for aftermarket replacement installed.

In 06, I paid 1122.32 for factory installed. That was AFTER discount of $475.66.

I almost had a stroke when I got that price on mine.

Alan