Im Considering A Sc400...need Advice.

[Avi Sarfaraz]

Hello, My name is Avi Sarfaraz, Im considering purchasing a 1993 Lexus SC400 fully loaded with automatic transmission.

The Price is 5,000 but the miles are 201,000...brake calipers and rotors have just been replaced, the car comsetically is in very good condition and the interior is very nice...but Im worried about the Engine and tranny, and all parts that do go bad..any advice? Please be truthfull, Ive had a bad experience with a corvette that is fresh in memory.

The car starts smoothly and is quiet with no rattles at 80 mph so Im not sure if thats a good or bad thing.

Please, Lend me your advice.

[Avi Sarfaraz]

I guess you guys are going to give me the silent treatment....fine, not what I expected from lexus owners, I know several.

I need help, please.

[UCF3]

Sorry for the late response.

The 93 SC400 is a good car to buy. It doesn't have any major problems to really be concerned about. the Motor and tranny are pretty solid.

A car with 200k miles on it, i'd definitelly check the service history @ the dealer, 15k-30-60k-90k services. In fact before putting money down, I'd take it to the dealer and have they run a pre-certified inspection. They normally charge around $150-250 depending on where you live.

if you don't enough info, i'd start with a complete fluid flush (Coolant, oil, power steering, brakes). Also, replace the timing and serpentine belts if you see any cracks. pick up the dipstick and make sure there aren't any burn marks or sludge buildup(corsy/burnt oil/rubbery).

The major problems I found with my LS was the power steering pump failed and started to leak on the alternator. It was pain to replace the pump because of the last bolt which is accessble from underneath the car. I would also consider buying a new battery. You can test it using a volt metre or get a read out from an AutoZone, walmart, advanced auto or Pepboys.

The tranny is pretty solid. The only problem I had was with the rear-main seal leaking. It's a major problem, and will cost you about $1000 to fix at the dealers. I personally don't trust AAMCO or somebody else, unless they're a Toyota Certified Master Technician.

The other problem I should mention are the lower control arm bushings on my SC3. It's expensive to replace to control arms, but they're are a couple of kits available. You could put it on an alignment rack to see if you have any other problems.

The UZF1 motor is good car to buy. I haven't had to many major problems with my cars. If you're a do-it-yourselfer, you're golden. If you choose to buy, I'd like to welcome you to the Soarer family.

For more information on the SC400, and you're definitely going to buy the SC chekc out this link.

[Avi Sarfaraz]

Thank you, I'll have to gauge my options, Im looking to buy a car for work mainly, I think I'll be buying one next year if anything.