Ive been looking at buying a 98 GS400, with 154k on the clock. the only problem i see with it, is the shifter is harder to move than other GSs. When shifting into L the shifter must almost be forced into position, but the transmission doesnt actually engage in L unless you slam it into position a few times. I also had a problem getting the keys out when the car was in P, but I moved the car and the keys came right out again.

I talked to a mechanic at a shop that only works on Lexus cars, and he said 'that would raise all sorts of red flags' about the L gear problem. Any ideas what this could be? Is it really unlikely that its some sort of simple adjustment? Does the shifter really have like 45 parts like the mechanic told me? or is he BSing me so I'll bring the car in to him.

thanks