Early Model 04 had Issues?
Thread Starter
Driver
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 75
Likes: 0
From: ca
Early Model 04 had Issues?
I'm in the market for a 04 + LS430 and been doing some research. In general, I know the LS is extremely reliable especially for a luxury vehicle. However, I read quite a few time where people claimed the early models had issues with the transmission and other small things here and there.
Is this true? If it is true, what build dates should I avoid?
Thank you all
Is this true? If it is true, what build dates should I avoid?
Thank you all
Lexus Champion
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 17,019
Likes: 496
From: Knoxville, TN
I'm in the market for a 04 + LS430 and been doing some research. In general, I know the LS is extremely reliable especially for a luxury vehicle. However, I read quite a few time where people claimed the early models had issues with the transmission and other small things here and there.
Is this true? If it is true, what build dates should I avoid?
Thank you all
Is this true? If it is true, what build dates should I avoid?
Thank you all
In 11 years the car has never had any problems other than a control arm bushing replacement and a leaking valve cover gasket replaced, which are one of the very few issues that are common on these cars. It's important to note that these were repairs done after the car was 10 years old. Before that the car never had *one* single issue. These things are built like tanks. Car still looks, feels, and drives like its 2-3 years old.
You can't go wrong with *any* LS430, basically. Just make sure you have a full Lexus service history. Maintained well these cars will last 300k plus easy.
Lead Lap
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 552
Likes: 27
From: Maryland
many '04 models had a problem with transmission shifting poorly but this was fixed via a software update. You had to take the car in to get it done, but if you check the maintenance records you'll see the majority of owners had it done. Personally I wouldn't discriminate among any 04 to 06
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 914
Likes: 70
From: CA
many '04 models had a problem with transmission shifting poorly but this was fixed via a software update. You had to take the car in to get it done, but if you check the maintenance records you'll see the majority of owners had it done. Personally I wouldn't discriminate among any 04 to 06
Lexus Champion
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,489
Likes: 107
From: AZ
The early 04's had a recall that replaced the transmission. Only fools would not have had that done. I would think there is almost zero chance that you would find one that was not replaced after being recalled. My early 04 (I purchased in 07) had the transmission replaced and has been and is still perfect.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
