All,

Just purchased a 2002 SC430 with ML audio, and both door speakers (lower) are blown. I called the dealer and they are giving me a price of $670.00. Any other suggestions that are a little more reasonable?

 

For less than $670, you can get some premium speakers installed at just about any decent audio place. I like the Levinson system in the SC, but my system (JL/Infinity kappa perfects) in my Celica puts it to shame...seriously. If it's just those two speakers, then yeah, definitely go to an independent installer.

 

I just purchased a 2002 SC430 with Levinson system and took it on my first "Road Trip". First thing I noticed was when songs with certain bass frequencies were playing at any volume, both lower door speakers were distorted and cracking. I changed the fad to the rear speakers and the distortion went away. Now I'm looking for feedback from other owners on whether or not this is a speaker issue or a head unit issue. I'm curious whether the Lexus dealer even asked how you knew it was the speakers! NOTE: Check crutchfield.com they have a ton of speakers that fit the SC.

Also, before I purchashed the SC, I researched the 2002 and the stereo was rated poorly by Consumer Reports. I plan on calling Lexus to ask if they have any technical bulletins on the 2002 SC430.

 

Also, before I purchashed the SC, I researched the 2002 and the stereo was rated poorly by Consumer Reports. I plan on calling Lexus to ask if they have any technical bulletins on the 2002 SC430.[/QUOTE]

I have an '02 with the Levinson system, and it's the finest sound system I've had in any of my cars. No distortion at any volume level - nice with the top down.

 

Go get some use ML speakers, I called around my local junk yard area and got 2 perfectly decent used ML speakers for my two doors for around 200 without installation, Installation was do it yourself install.