Hello ClubLexus,

My stepdad recently loaned me money to buy a 2001 LS 430. We didn't get along for most of my life, but recently we've finally come to an understanding. The sad thing is he has multiple myeloma and whether he lives past the next five years is a coin toss according to the statistics. This car means a lot to me because it will remind me of him after he goes. I want to get it in good shape and take care of it so it can always grace my garage.

The problem is, I'm not a car guy. I have some experience in auto claims and a moderately technical background, but have no idea where to start. Here are the symptoms for various issues:
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- There are three EVAP codes. The previous owner told me the lines were smoked and no leaks were found. I replaced the gas cap to rule it out, but haven't done anything else because it is beyond my level of expertise at this point.
- There is a coolant leak. I was told that it is probably a water pump gasket, but am not sure.
- Shaky/rough idle. I have no idea what is causing this.
- Various electronic parts don't function. There aren't any other major electrical issues that I'm aware of so I think it's just some random dead motors.
- Likely needs quite a bit of maintenance, but I'm unsure what kind. I've been changing the oil, got new tires, top off coolant, but everything else is beyond me.
- Several cosmetic issues: minor paint chips, bubbling stock wheels, rip in the driver seat, faded logos, chipped dash components, etc.

Where would you guys start? My hope is to maintain this vehicle indefinitely.

 

Howdy. Where to start.... Without seeing it in person. Luckily they are relatively straightforward to work on underneath all the beauty covers

I would do the typical things first.

1. Replace all the vacuum hoses as they are likely rock hard and brittle from years of engine heat. Also replace pcv and grommet seal as that is likely to be original.

2. If not known service history, then oil+filter. Air filter too.

3. ​​​​Check the spaek plugs for colour to see how it is running. Probably a compression check if you have a tester. Replace plugs if they look really dirty or just because it's time.

4. Inspect coolant hoses and plan to replace any spongey feeling ones. If there are spongey hoses, chances are a new radiator and thermostat will be prudent preventative maintenance at this age. Radiators do wear out over many years, but when they go they can leave you stranded in an inconvenient place or worse,.... with a dead engine.

4a: if hoses are spomgey and radiator needs replacing, doing the timing belr and water pump at same time is a prudent choice.

​​​​​​5. Almost certain that the rocker cover gaskets will need a refresh soon as they will likely be rock hard and cracked from years of heat...like the vavuum hoses.

6. Probably plan to get a transmission service with new oil done sometime in the next year.

7. Check brake pads and fluid. Probably get the fluid refreshed for peace of mind.

​​​​​​8. Suspension will almost certainly benefit with Some refreshing - shocks and control. Arm bushes. Probably not urgent as they drive ok on worn out suspension but new shoxks will go a long way to making it drive like new.

Those are pretty mucb the commom things to llooks at. Everything else is more or less on an as needed or if problems arrise basis.

 

Oh yeqh and buy a obd2 dongle to pair with your phone so you can see what the computer is up to for sensora and codes