So, you decided to get a Lexus LS400?

Here in this article I will try to give you details on which year to get to fit your budget, your driving style and your future goals for this wonderful ride. Before I start, I would like to share some historic perspective on Lexus. August 1983 At a top-level, top-secret meeting, Toyota Chairman Eiji Toyoda determines the time is right to create a luxury vehicle to challenge the world's best May 1985 A study team visits the U.S. to conduct focus groups while a design team moves to California to develop concepts. July 1985 The first of the LS 400 running prototypes is built. May 1986 Performance testing begins on the Autobahn in Germany. September 1986 Extensive testing on American roads begins. May 1987 Management approves the final design of the LS 400. January 1989 The LS 400 and ES 250 are unveiled to the world at Detroit and Los Angeles auto shows. September 1989 The LS 400 and ES 250 go on sale. January 1990 The LS 400 is named a Car and Driver 10Best. February 1990 The Motoring Press Association names the LS 400 Best Imported Car of the Year. July 1990 Lexus first appears in a J.D. Power and Associates study, ranked as the #1 Carline in the Initial Quality Study. May 1991 Lexus unveils the first new addition to its product line, the SC 400. August 1991 The SC 300 is introduced. Lexus sweeps the J.D. Power and Associates studies, topping the Customer Satisfaction Study as the #1 Carline, the Initial Quality Study as the Best Overall Carline, and the Sales Satisfaction Study as the Best Overall Carline. September 1991 The ES 300 replaces the ES 250.

January 1992 The SC 400 and ES 300 are named Automobile Magazine All-Stars, and SC 400 a Car and Driver 10Best. Lexus outsells BMW and Mercedes-Benz to become the number-one luxury import. March 1992 Motor Trend and the Motoring Press Association name the SC 400 Import Car of the Year. July 1992 Lexus again tops the J.D. Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction Study as the #1 Carline, and the Sales Satisfaction Study as the Best Overall Carline. September 1992 A freshened LS 400 appears with more than 50 changes, many as a direct response to dealer and customer requests. January 1993 Lexus introduces its first luxury performance sedan, the GS 300. The SC 300 is named to the Car and Driver 10Best list and to Automobile Magazine's All-Star list. June 1993 The LS 400 is named the Best Import Car for 1993 by The Robb Report. July 1993 For the third year in a row, Lexus is ranked as the #1 Carline in the J.D. Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction Study. February 1994 Lexus is ranked as the Best Overall Carline in the J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Performance Study, reflecting satisfaction after three years of ownership. May 1994 Lexus sweeps the J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study, with the Best Overall Carline ranking. July 1994 Lexus is ranked as the #1 Carline in the J.D. Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction Study for the fourth straight year and as the Best Overall Carline in Sales Satisfaction for the third time in four years. November 1994 The redesigned second-generation LS 400 goes on sale. December 1994 The new LS 400 is designated Best of What's New by Popular Science. The LS400 was launched in the UK in June 1990 as a one-specification model. It had a brandnew 4.0-litre V8 engine which set new levels for smoothness and refinement. All cars

featured a state-of-the-art automatic transmission that made even the best Mercedes-Benz automatics seem suddenly second best. There was a minor upgrade in October 1991, when the vanity mirrors were given illumination - believe it or not. A passenger airbag was fitted from January 1993 and this model also received a slightly remodelled grille. The replacement second generation LS400 looked very similar, though it was an all-new car, and it arrived in October 1994. Neither car has sold in particularly high numbers, so finding a good selection of used examples may prove a little difficult. In this article we are only going to focus on the first generation. I believe the first generation Lexus LS400 is the most important of all Lexus Cars because it set the path for future models. When I needed a family ride. I chose a 1990 Lexus LS400 for its historic perspectives. For 14 year old car, this beauty still ride like a brand new Camry. Its smooth, its quiet and its fast. Lexus LS400 also known as Silent Rocket. Once you step on the gas pedal you look down the instrument cluster and the next thing you know you are cruising 50 mph. Actually, the car feels slow because its so quiet and smooth. You do not feel the bumps and vibrations, therefore you don't really feel the speed. Lots of new owners get speeding tickets for this reasons. So, drive slowly. From the exterior view, the 1990 looks the same as the 1993, but there are few refinements. For example, larger brakes and more reliable then its earlier siblings. Common Problems: 1. Climate Control LCD turn black: After 10-14 years the LCD starts to bleed and the temperature/climate display turn black. The repair cost is about $200-$300 2. Rear View Mirror: Same as above mechanism 3. Power Steering: Very common, if the previous owner did not change it. Its time to change it after you acquire the new ride. Repair cost is about $250-$300 4. Trac Light: For some reasons, this is very common. I have read a lot about it. Its most likely be the speed sensors. Repair cost is about $800. 5. Bushings and Cushions: They are can be repair for about $400-500 Things to avoid: 1. 1990-1992 LS400: Due to smaller brakes 2. Air Suspension Shocks: This was an expensive options and its an expensive option to fix. Each shock is about $1,000 and you will need to replace all four. However, recently we have replacement shocks for 1/4 of the price. My Recommendation: 1. Get a 1993-1994: Bigger tires and brakes 2. Standard Suspension: No expensive Air Suspension Replacement 3. No Traction Control: Avoid Trac Light 4. Pearl White: Its a timeless color. However, if you are tight on budget, than the 1990-1992 are very good price. You can get a nice 1990 LS400 in good running shape for about $4,000-$5,000, but do plan to spend about $2,000 for the repairs I mentioned earlier.

Below are pretty standard futures adopted from www.familycar.com

Model year differences 1990 The first Lexus LS400 1991 There is a slight refinement in the front brakes to provide better pedal feel. 1992 No changes 1993 Larger tires and brakes, Passenger side air bag added, CFC free air conditioning
with a pollen filter, Automatic headlamps, styling touch-ups and several interior refinements. ( '93 also rates as the most reliable of this reliable group. This is the year to look for.) 1994 No changes, Same as '93

Specifications
Engine Type Horsepower Torque Fuel Recommended Transmission Tires Overall Length Width Turning Diameter Max. Towing Capacity Curb Weight Fuel Tank Miles Per Gallon Acceleration 0 to 60 4.0-liter DOHC 32-valve 90 V8, Cast aluminum block and heads 250 @ 5,600 RPM 260 @ 4,400 RPM Premium Unleaded Four Speed Automatic Electronically Controlled with intelligence 1990-1992: Goodyear Eagle GA P205/65VR15 1993-1994: Goodyear Invicta GA P225/60VR16 196.7" 72" 36.1 ft Curb to Curb 2000 lbs. 3,858 22.5 Gals. EPA city 18, hwy 23. Observed during aprox. 1000 miles of road testing, 19 MPG 7.9 seconds

Standard Equipment

4.0-liter DOHC 32-valve V8 Engine Four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with intelligence 4-wheel independent double wishbone suspension Speed sensing, progressive power rack and pinion steering Four-wheel disc antilock brakes Driver side air bag 1990-1992, Driver and front passenger air bags 1993 and later Vehicle and audio Theft Deterrent System Automatic air conditioning. (CFC free with filter only on '93 and later.) Automatic headlamps ('93 and later)

Fog lamps Dual power heated outside mirrors Liquid crystal day/night inside rearview mirror Power windows and door locks Leather seats and door panels (earlier models had a cloth seat option.) California Walnut wood trim '90 - '92, 8 way power seat for driver, 4 way power for passenger, '93 and later, both seats were 8 way power. Tilt and telescoping steering column with automatic tilt-away when exiting car. AM/FM stereo cassette high output audio system with 7 speakers including sub-woofer Tool kit and first aid kit. Outside temperature gauge ('93 and later)

Major Available Options

This is a list of the major options that were available on these cars when they were new along with a guide on how to recognize whether the car that you are considering has that option. Option

How to recognize it Look for buttons marked 1, 2 and Set by the drivers door handle Look for a Trac off button and two seat heater buttons marked L and R just below the radio and above the ash tray Big hole with a glass cover in the roof Located in the right wall of the trunk. Make sure there is at least one 6-disk magazine included. Additional magazines are available from Pioneer or Lexus. In center console, factory unit has a switch marked 1, 2, 3 attached to the left side of the steering wheel

Memory seat system Traction control system & Heated seats Power tilt and slide moonroof Trunk mounted 6-disk CD changer

Built in cellular phone

Electronic Air Suspension with ride There are 3 rocker switches next to the transmission shifter instead of 1 rocker switch. They are marked control Sport/Normal, Height and ECT Pwr/Norm Nakamichi Premium 280 watt sound Look for the Nakamichi name on the radio face. system

Note: The first 3 items were popular options and found on most used LS400's. The last 2 were expensive options when new and may be hard to find. Lexus service managers tell me that these options do not affect the excellent reliability of these cars, so if you can find cars with them, don't be afraid to buy them. Of course, it is up to you to have any prospective car checked out thoroughly by a professional mechanic familiar with that model before you buy it.

Used LS400 Buyer Guide for Layman by Layman

by wandawoods, member of Lexus Owners Club

I think its a good idea to start an Used LS400 Buyer Guide for Layman by Layman for everyone to contribute their 2 cents and any after-purchase experiences so that all the future to-be LS400 owners can be better equipped while buying an used LS400. I purchased my 94 LS400 and 96 SC400 off eBay within 7-day span. the sellers were kind enough to list all major mechanical/electronic issues they knew of in their listings or prepurchase communication, so I knew most issues going in, and bough both cars like at least 20% below KBB private party price. as expected, I did inherent some seemingly minor defects but expensive to make good, especially on the 94 LS. this is to be a run-down list for layman like myself before you order any professional prepurchase check out (anywhere from $30 to $250) which is always a great idea after you have your own basic 0-cost inspection done. in fact, professional inspection may or may not as detailed as this list. they usually just look for big things in general not really specific to LS400. small things on a LS can still cost you hundreds to thousands to fix! UPDATE: the 94 LS400 was rear-ended in May/04. it was a total, so I took the insurance pay-off and bought a 97 LS-400 w/96K off eBay. It did send this guide to my friend at vehicle location to check it out before I sent bank wire for it. Words about Professional Inspection: Don't automatically assume accuracy of any professional inspection. my 98 ES300, bought locally, did pass Lexus dealer's inspection before purchase with flying colors with only some very minor problems. however, couple of month later, 'blue-smoke' appears due to bad valve stem seal or blown head gasket or worn piston rings or the dreadful engine 'gelling'. the repair cost can be $2K+. all these conditions are more than likely outcomes of very poor maintenance for basic thing such as oil change, engine exposed to high-temp due to lowcoolant or expired coolant .... therefore maintenance records are as important as professional inspections which always have big disclaimer to exclude any liability whatsoever! the basics. find KBB private-party price (rated good, reportedly only about 2~3% of older model year used cars can be actually rated excellent). even you will buy from dealers, no one really wants to pay KBB retail price which is like list price or suggested retail price. when buying, dont use Edmund or NADA prices which are consistently higher than KBB absolutely do a Carfax check for major accidents, salvaged title, mileage consistency, or rental vehicle, # of owners. I found two LS40 that I almost bought but turned out to be salvaged or had major accident recorded, and the private sellers claimed they had no knowledge about. Yeh, right!? if buy from eBay, absolutely check sellers feedbacks. you can even email buyers who left negative feedbacks to get their side of the story in details. any sellers commitments of repairs, allowance or reimbursements must be in writing or email which is black and white, and can be legally binding. by all means, avoid cars from COLD states where have lot of salty roads in wintry weather. major erosion/rusting on everything metal under carriage are quite evident, and converter/exhaust is usually not in good shape.

ask seller to provide dealer maintenance record according to VIN# and bills of any major repairs if not done by dealers

the obvious before staring car. pop the hood and avoid cars have SUPER-CLEAN and oily shining compartment. more than likely, they have been pressure washed with water which is not too good for all electronics and their connections under hood. I suspected that was why some of the meters, warning lights on my LS400 were mal-functioning because of shorted or loose wirings and connectors. make sure 1UZ-FE V8 engine, widely used in variety of Lexus and Toyota cars, in there matches the model year. keep in mind that VIN# is not on engine itself! any experienced mechanic could swap engine with unknown mileage/condition. that will be disastrous to the could-be buyer, and it isnt going to show on CarFax report. the easiest way to tell is: ask sellers permission to remove the top cover surrounding Lexus emblem (its held by 4 simple nuts, and they can be removed/installed in 60 seconds), and count number of small VACUUM LINES (straw-size diameter, parallel to emblem). 90~93 have 4 vacuum lines in front of Lexus emblem, and 94 has only 2 lines. 95/96 has no parallel vacuum lines. TIMING BELT: timing belt replacement sticker usually is placed in front of radiator and left to the hook socket for engine hood if done by Lexus dealer. 90K is the recommended mileage to replace timing belt / water pump / pulleys. if no label found, then ask! dont take I dont knowIm not sure it probably has as answers, its a whopping $1200 job by Lexus dealership, any owner would remember that amount! only take dealer maintenance record or repair bill as 'proof', otherwise it's a major item you can ask allowance from seller. OIL LEVEL: get your hands dirty and check oil/fluid levels and condition for engine (clear amber), transmission (Toyota Type T-IV, reddish), power steering (reddish Dexron), coolant (Toyota Long-Life Red, NOT neon green!). any blacken fluid can only mean poor maintenance or at least a costly flush/bleed/refill to you. most autoparts store dont carry Lexus-specific ATF and steering fluid which are sold at dealer only for $7 per quarter. pay special attention to any oil leaks at power steering pump which seems to be failure prone for older LS400 purportedly. the leaking fluid can also short-out starter sitting right blow the steering pump on Gen-I (90~94). TIRE tread wear: new tires, even non-major brands, can be $100~$120 each for LS400s V rated tires TIRE unevenly worn: alignment is required AIR SUSPENSION: avoid any LS400 with air suspension (with an airbag on top, no spring visible)! air struts are very failure prone (specially in old models) and super expensive to replace ($800 each at dealer) or to convert ($250 per wheel). if you must have the car with air suspension, check whether the car is sitting too low (cant see the top of tire from well rim) with inward-tilted tires when parked. check any shiiiii sound (air is leaking out like mine was!) at all 4 when engine is just cut off. all these mean faulty air suspension and big $$$! UNDERCARRIAGE: get your knees dirty and check any oil dripping or fresh oil patches on the ground. rather see a dirty, dusty, but DRY underside and look for any oily spots or patch. check heavily rusted or corroded spots, specially on struts, spring, arms, muffler, exhaust pipes.etc if car is from cold states like my 98 ES300 was from Boston.

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY/CENTRAL LOCK; do try all buttons on the key (make sure remote keyless button is on), the remote control module for it is super expensive if you do want working keyless entry! MANUAL/KEYS: owners manual are for layman like us, but its quite informative for basic features, functions, operation as well as the DYI maintenances. 4 keys are standard for LS400 (2x master remote, 1x sub key, 1x valet key). Lexus dealer charges $45~$100 per key depending on type, and $30 min. at some import car locksmith. use master key (the one with wireless button) to try all locks (fronts doors, trunk, glove comp). Owner's manual is not a big deal because you can get one from Lexus for free after you register your Lex at their web site. presence of jack /handle/tire bar

starts the car.. start engine with hood open and up! 1UZ-FE engine should have a very nice and smooth humming without any slight glitch, and it should be rather quiet after it warms up. LS400 shall start in very short crank just by turning the key WITHOUT pressing gas pedal. IMPORTANT* have someone with you to check what comes out from exhaust pipe while starting car with COLD engine: no visible smoke: good! puff of white smoke: water in converter, coolant leaking into head gasket etc. however, some white steam in cold whether is considered normal. puff of blue smoke (engine oil burning, you can smell it too!): worn piston rings, valve stem seals, blown head gasket... any repairs to deal with these condition is $1500~$3000 range! puff of black smoke: obvious sign of MAJOR problems somewhere in the exhaust system remember, you may have only one shot to watch out for these when COLD start engine because when engine is hot these symptom may not show at all for subsequent starts. engine cold-start RPM shall be around 1500 idle, then drops to about 500 when it warms up to normal operating temp. after engine warms up, coolant temp gauge shouldnt be higher than mid point; mine was stuck at 'cold' because the 'dial' itself is dead. pay attention to any chew-chew noise, it may mean bad drive belt/pulleys/tensioners somewhere; it could even be the water pump about to go which will break the timing belt! the AC auxiliary fans outside radiator (2 for Gen-1 90~94, 1 for Gen-II 95~97) should be active only when AC is turned on, and go off in a short while when AC is off. (mine was constantly on due to a loose temperature sensor) in Park, turn steering wheel widely left and right (increased oil pressure to pump) , and have someone with you watch out any leaks coming from power steering pump. dripping fluid from leaking power steering pump can also damage starter situated right below. ABSOLUTELY try every single buttons/switches/knobs specially for 90~94 model years, which purportedly have high failure rate. as high-end luxury car, LS400 is loaded with sophisticated electronic features with all sorts of buttons and switches. any non-responsive ones could mean hundreds dollar each to make good of these dealer-only switches/relays/sensors/motors/rotors (or junk yards if you were lucky!)

steering column telescoping/high-low button (mine was jammed due to a 'design defect' of a simple fly wheel inside motor) seat position/comfort/memory controls knobs all power widows/doors buttons sunroof control buttons traction on-off, high-normal suspension, sport-normal ride, ECT on-off, O/D on-off try all seatbelts and their retraction try all buttons on climate control panel, AC is cold or not, air actually flows at all outlets depending on mode selected condition of LCD display on climate control panel (it fades often purportedly on 90~94 Gen-I ) try all buttons on stereo control panel. must turn on radio to make sure power antenna is working (4 out of 8 LS I test drove locally was bad!). must bring a CD to try CD changer (was bad in my ES300) in trunk or compartment above glove box. condition of LCD display on stereo control (displaying 'broken' digits, especially on 95~97 Gen-II ) wind-shield wiper switches and washer jets trunk/gas/hood remote buttons headlights/hi-beam/fog lights have someone standing in back to check brake/reverse lights, all turn signals, flasher INSTRUMENT PANEL: absolutely no warning lights shall be on! maybe door open low fuel low washer.. turn the brightness button to the max for instrument panel. all meters and needles shall be eye-popping bright, watch out for any fading or burnt needles which is well known for older LS400 model years. faded or burnt needle tips are truly obvious in the brightest mode. reportedly, there are lots of Gen-I (90~94) model have 'light-out' problem when weather is cold due to couple of low-quality capacitor failing on circuit board behind instrument panel.

the test drive. gas pedal and steering should be very light and responsive. drive very slow (like under 5mph) at first and make sharp turns to hear any clunk noise from suspension, then brake firmly to stop. repeat a few times. pay attention to any squeaking noise while braking at low speed. brake pedal should be high and very sensitive. any low brake can only means worn pads. shaking at high-speed braking indicates rotor problems. unless you own Lexus before, DO expect the acceleration, transmission, steering, suspension, braking to be smoothest car youve ever driven! after all, LS is legendary for its ultra smoothness in all aspects of driving tasks. if possible, try driving over a few bumps to feel how the suspension handles. if car rattles at 40~50mph, it means bad alignment. if car shakes at 60+mph, that could mean tire balancing problem. if you can hear rattling click sound, it can mean struts or motor mounts are going bad any light 'trembles' or 'rattling' in driving can also mean bad motor and/or tranny mounts after few minutes of driving, its a good time to pay attention to instrument panel again to spot any active warning lights! after test drive, park, keep engine running and check under carriage again to spot any oil leaks. ignore the dripping water from AC, of course.

well, I am no expert on car, nor have the time to be one. corrections and add-ons are wholly welcome!
1995-2000 Lexus LS 400 Reliability

Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems. Check-engine light: The check-engine light may come on because of a problem with the fuel vapor emissions system. (1995-00) Dashboard lights: Due to a problem in the printed circuit, outside temperature reading may report -22F. Removing the fuse for 30 seconds should reset the system. (1995-96) Engine misfire: Undercoating on the oxygen sensor may reduce its effectiveness and cause the check-engine light to glow. (1995-97) Engine misfire: Rough engine performance above 40 mph can be remedied by replacing the engine-control computer, cruise-control module, and spark plugs. (1995)

Consumer Guide Estimated Repair Costs

This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Item Name A/C Compressor Alternator Automatic Transmission or Transaxle Brakes Exhaust System Radiator Shocks and/or Struts Timing Chain or Belt Universal Joints Repair Cost $1,135 $460 $1,020 $280 $450 $635 $2,320 $285 $1,300

NHTSA Recall History

1995-97: Due to improper assembly of terminal for starter motor switch, short circuit can occur if electrically conductive liquid, such as road splash with deicing salt, enters the area.

1995-2000 Lexus LS 400 Review

Shortly after the 1995 model year began, a second generation LS 400 went on sale. Roomier than the 1990 to '94 edition, the new LS 400 also had more engine power as well as fresh styling. Wheelbase was stretched by 1.4 inches, to 112.2, but overall length stayed the same as 196.7 inches. Back-seat passengers gained 2.6 inches in leg room and trunk space grew by half a cubic foot, from 14.4 to 14.9. Still rear-wheel drive, the LS 400 kept its 4.0-liter V8 engine, but horsepower output rose from 250 to 260. Standard equipment included dual airbags and 4-wheel antilock disc brakes.

Year to Year Changes

1996 Lexus LS: Except for one new body color, nothing was new for the Lexus flagship sedan. 1997 Lexus LS: Side airbags were installed in front seatbacks of the LS 400 for '97. 1998 Lexus LS: LS 400's V8 gets variable-valve timing and an additional 30 horspower and pound-feet of torque. Also, the 4-speed automatic transmission was replaced by a 5-speed unit and an antiskid program called Vehicle Stability Control was added. 1999 Lexus LS: Lexus added daytime running lights, a wood-and-leather steering wheel and shift knob, and reverse-down outside mirrors to their flagship sedan for '99. A satellite-based in-car navigation system remained a costly option. 2000 Lexus LS: A new Brake Assist feature and rear child-seat anchors highlighted the 2000 changes, prior to redesigning of the Lexus flagship for 2001 (to be called LS 430).

1995-2000 Lexus LS 400 Road Test

Pros
Antilock brakes Acceleration

Cons
Fuel economy Cargo room

Ride Quietness Passenger room

Price

Consumer Guide Road-Test Evaluation

Not only is this version of the LS 400 quicker and roomier than its predecessor, it's also quieter. In fact, it was one of the quietest cars on the market. Acceleration is outstanding and feels considerably stronger than before--perhaps a testament to the reduced weight as well as the moderate horsepower boost. As for gas mileage, we averaged 19.5 mpg on the required premium gasoline. Behaving with greater agility than before, the LS 400 suffers less body lean in turns, and enjoys good grip on the pavement. Steering feels much crisper, too. Though slightly firmer, the sedan's suspension is still gratifyingly supple and absorbent. A longer wheelbase means adults now get ample room to stretch their legs in the back seat. They even get space for their feet beneath the front seats. Head room is adequate all around, even with the optional power moonroof. Some controls have been simplified, even though the dashboard's appearance has not changed much. Value for the Money Impressive as the original LS 400 turned out to be, the latest rendition is even better. Workmanship? Simply excellent. Refinement? Exceptional. Expensive? Of course. Like many items of true quality, though, an LS 400 is well worth the price.

Consumer Guide Road Test Ratings

Lexus LS 400 Performance Fuel Economy Ride Quality Steering/Handling/Braking Quietness Controls/Materials Interior Room Room/Comfort (rear) Cargo Capacity Value within Class Total: Rating 6 2 9 5 9 7 8 6 4 6 62

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.

Lexus LS400

Lexus LS400 1990-2001

Lexus's flagship LS400 made an immediate impact on the prestige sector when launched

It wafts along with RollsRoyce elegance and is a tremendous mile-eater

March 2002

Making a name and forging a reputation can take a car manufacturer decades, if it's lucky. Yet Toyota achieved it in less than one with its Lexus luxury offshoot. And the car that really did the business for the Japanese firm was the flagship LS400. At its 1990 launch, it made an immediate impact on the prestige sector, teaching the establishment a trick or two. Now this capable saloon can be bought for the price of a used Ford Mondeo. Here's what to look for... Driving If you like your motoring to be serene, swift and silent, then few can match this one. It wafts along with RollsRoyce elegance and is a tremendous mile-eater. The sheer size and bulk of the Lexus rules it out as a driving machine, and compared to a Jaguar XJ or the best from BMW, the LS400 feels vague and unrewarding to hustle along quickly. (However, an optional handling package introduced in 1997 tightened up the suspension.) That said, motorways show the Lexus in its best light, where the legal limit seems too much of a crawl. Only one engine is available, and what a gem it is, too. The 4.0-litre V8 (4.3 on the latest model) is one of the silkiest you'll find. With a choice of 241, 260 or 280bhp on tap depending upon model, this big saloon is no slouch. It will keep up with the best GTis, yet return around 23mpg. Top speed is 155mph.

There's no manual transmission option, but the automatic suits the car extremely well because it's so beautifully smooth. One word sums up driving an LS400: effortless. It's extremely docile in town and yet can surge past slow traffic with a press of the throttle. If ever a car could drive itself, it's this Lexus. Living with At nearly 16ft 6in long and 6ft wide, the bulky and admittedly dreary-looking LS400 is a big beast to park or negotiate through town. But there's no shortage of space or comfort inside. The cabin was made even better for the 1995 model year when, among a raft of improvements, the LS also gained a longer wheelbase for added room. At launch, Lexus shocked and rocked the luxury car market by taking on and very nearly beating the establishment at its own game in the refinement stakes. Although the appearance of the original LS400 seems largely unchanged over its lifetime, there have been continual revisions and improvements to keep it up with the best. These include better seating, air-conditioning and even more equipment: leather trim, heated chairs, cruise control, powered steering adjustment... You name it and this Lexus has it. But one area where it took Toyota time to catch up was in the cabin's finish, which for some years lacked the ambience and aura of those of the best Germans. Buying and owning A used LS400 is as comfortable and relaxing to own as it is to drive. Its reliability has won numerous awards for customer satisfaction. Lexus says it has never sold a replacement auto box since the car was launched. How's that for durability? However, the model's undoubtedly robust nature is tinged with some extremely high spares and repair costs, and this really bumps up its pence per mile figure. It's a complex car that needs main dealer skill and understanding and Lexus specialists are fairly thin on the ground. Notwithstanding the price premium, a main dealer is also the best place to buy used, even if the firm downgraded its Lexus Approved scheme from three years to one some time ago, because it cost too much to operate. The good news is that it is still a top-quality programme. The manufacturer-backed 12-month plan mirrors that of the new car warranty, has no mileage limit and covers models dating back seven years or which have covered up to 140,000 miles. Other benefits include an RAC inspection and breakdown cover, full mileage verification, history check, fresh MoT and excellent vehicle exchange opt-out in case of problems with your car.

VERDICT
What the LS400 lacks in pedigree and badge snobbery, it makes up for in other departments. Such is its reliability and integrity that even the earliest examples are outstanding buys if they have been serviced properly. The Lexus offers levels of refinement and comfort that traditionally only the best brands could provide, while dealer back-up is unsurpassed. That stately styling may be as dull as they come, but the real beauty of the LS400 lurks under the skin.

OTHER EXPENSES
Depreciation:4 Engines:Original: Can be bargains but a full Lexus service history is critical.1994: Gains a useful upgrade, qualifies for Lexus Approved scheme.1998: Full of hi-tech equipment, including VVTi engine design. Running costs (ppm):78p Insurance groups:18-19

HISTORY

Jun 90: Introduced. Hi-tech, high-spec saloon using 4.0-litre 241bhp engine with standard automatic transmission. Jun 93: Minor restyle, including larger 16-inch wheels, twin airbags plus a better interior with multiadjustable seating and improved air-con.Oct 94: Extensively revised with longer wheelbase, 260bhp unit, minor facelift and redesigned front seats. Dec 96: Front side airbags installed. Jul 97: Optional dynamic handling package offered, including larger tyres and lowered suspension. Oct 97: New 280bhp engine, five-speed auto,

further facelift with revised front wings and bonnet treatment. Sep 00: New LS430 introduced with more aerodynamic styling, upgraded interior and 4.3-litre engine. Vehicle Stability Control fitted as standard.