dlbuckls10

Many buyers prefer the non air suspension because air suspensions are prong to problems. Any air suspension can be replaced with shocks or struts, including the LS. The 460 is nice to drive but not engaging. Its a big full size, comfortable, smooth highway car and isn't much fun driving on winding and twisty roads.

Doublebase

Yes these cars can be found without air ride.
I don't know what you mean by asking if the suspension can be replaced with a traditional suspension, do you mean can air shocks be replaced with traditional struts? Or do you mean the entire suspension can be replaced with an entirely different one?
The vibration issue doesn't seem to be a bi tissue around here, but vibration issues can either be from tires, suspension or driveline. There is a rubber flexible coupling where the driveshaft meets the pinion flange on these cars. They can crack, which may cause a vibration.

And no these cars aren't exactly engaging, they handle good for a car this size and the steering is very responsive, but this is no Porsche.

v8lexusrun

"I don't know what you mean by asking if the suspension can be replaced with a traditional suspension, do you mean can air shocks be replaced with traditional struts? Or do you mean the entire suspension can be replaced with an entirely different one?"

Thanks - yes - can the air shocks be replaced with tradition struts was the meaning behind my question.

I realize that it not a lightweight sports car - my question is more this - For those that enjoy an "engaged" driving experience - does it offer this? Does it have a chassis and drivetrain that lets the driver "play" a little when the road gets fun...

Thanks

Nospinzone

If you are buying a 2008 model run the VIN on the Lexus site to see if the control arms have been replaced. If they haven't, have a competent mechanic inspect them.

Short answer, no. Certainly not in a 2008. A later F Sport may be better, but I don't know, I never drove one.

R Z

My 08 is non air. You can find what you want if you look around long enough.

Rhambler

Other than the suspension wearing out, prematurely in the case of the early LS', I don't think there are too many dangerous issues, at least not ones that will leave you stranded on the side of the freeway with check engine lights and limp modes based on my brief stint here. All cars will need new suspension components, especially the heavier ones. The LS is not immune to that and I consider it normal wear and tear.

The brake actuator is another issue I see that randomly pops up here.

While both are expensive to repair and replace, I think it's better than having oil or fuel pumps failing, PCVs getting clogged, carbon buildup or thermostats going out, all of which can you leave stranded. I haven't seen too many of these issues come up, but they are notorious in other brands.

R Z

You can't buy an 8 year old vehicle and expect it to be maintenance free.

blahsx

hi i know that 07-08 has control arm/brake actuator common problems but does the 2010 ls460 has this issue too? i cant find the common problem info on the sticky thread if someone can link me that would be great. Im planning to pick up a 2010 ls460L soon and would like to know the common problems for the 2010. i found a thread where someone said that 2010 is when they fix this issue blah blah but i lost the link to it. please let me know thank you

redlight30

My 2010 had over $20k in warranty repairs on the suspension. I am sure the control arms were done all the way around at least once. Other than that the car had no issues.

Kennyr44

Sure 20 grand is the inflated ripoff tear your heart out dealer pricing. In reality a couple grand probably would have fixed it at an honest shop with aftermarket parts that probably are the same as the Toyota branded ones.

roadfrog

For the record, my 2008 now has 110k miles and has needed neither control arms, nor brake actuator.

As noted by Kenny, the control arms can be replaced for about a grand, all in, by an independent using aftermarket parts.

chris3881

Where would you get the parts? (control arms)

whitewater

this should get you started: EBAY, Amazon, Rock auto, etc...

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-...tures-etc.html

litesoarer

I can tell you i've had the RR air shock fail 1x, and leaking down but functional twice now.

This will be the 4th RR air shock assembly in this car. Stay away from air suspension unless you've GOTTA have a Sport SWB or a L.

Doublebase

I get the feeling that the "loaded" LS's have quite a few more issues than the base model. The base model doesn't have the air ride...hell I don't even have the upgraded stereo with the amp that fails (although I wish I did).

Air rides are a problem with every manufacturer unfortunately. The base model - which is still a very loaded car - has two issues that I can see...the brake module and the control arms. The brake module is now covered under warranty with unlimited mileage until Dec 2017. And every single control arm in the front end for around $1000 bucks. I think that's pretty impressive. I'm sure others have had some smaller things happen over the years, but not a world wide major issue. For me I've replaced some of my front control arms and a wheel bearing, pretty good for 127,000 miles.