Jacob

I would have liked to, but I don’t have a digital camera… sorry

I think they all look ugly. I’m using one in my 1996 LS400 and I don’t like it. Furthermore, it can block the light sensor on the dash. I’m only using it because my dashboard is cracked, otherwise I won’t use it. Sorry for answering a different question than the one you asked.

I don’t hear the engine while cruising at 80mph. But, I hear it while accelerating— much louder than I’d expect from a Lexus. I also hear wind noise at about 60mph+ which I didn’t expect from a Lexus, either. Does a car develop wind noise as it gets older? 1996 LS400, 120K

This morning, I pulled out the cabin air filter in my car (96 LS400), and noted two different part numbers on it. I then searched the parts stores on the web which showed that it was the cabin air filter. However, www.lexus-parts.com lists a different number, and when I searched for that number, I got a cabin air filter but at a cheaper price. Does anyone know what the difference is? Part numbers: The one on my filter: 87139-50010 Lexus-parts.com: 87139-YZZ02

I always use the highest octane fuel (91). But, I've never seen 93.

Here’s a link to a catalytic converter cleaner: http://www.autobarn.net/chcat-1.html I considered using it but was afraid that it might harm the car.

I own a 1996 LS400 with 120K. I bought the car about 7 months ago with 113K (and a check-engine light). I have both P0420, and P0430 codes (both banks). I replaced the pre-cat oxygen sensors but the light didn't go away. I only use premium gas and the only long trip I had put on the car was Phoenix- Los Angeles- Phoenix. I still haven't checked the rear oxygen sensors which, I believe, requires the removal of floor carpet. I hope that those sensors are bad since I'd never buy the outrageously expensive cats. Good luck with your car Jacob

It could be the wheel bearing.

What’s wrong with having more than one version of the same car? For example Mercedes Benz has so many configurations of the S-class. If you don’t like speed and performance you can buy a stupid S280 (not available in USA), if you care about speed and performance you can go for S600 or S55.

That's correct. A 1996 LS400 master key doesn't have the built-in buttons.

I have just had a master key cut for my 1996 LS400 for $75

I looked at mine yesterday, and they seem to be in bad shape. But it seems that you can’t replace the bushings by themselves— you have to replace the whole strut rod. Is this true? Jacob

Bicol-ini Thank you for your response. I had the transmission mount replaced a few months ago, which solved a slightly different problem. I wish the engine mounts were as easy to replace as the transmission’s. Jacob

I feel some vibration in the cabin, and when slowing down I can feel the transmission downshifting just before the car stops (not very smooth). It sounds like the engine mounts need to be replaced, and my question is: would the transmission be affected if I don’t replace them soon? 1996 LS400, 119k Thanks Jacob

92Lex, I've been looking for a shop that does MotorVac in Phoenix metro with no success. Is this something done at a repair shop? or is it done at an oil lube? It seems that some mechanics have no idea what MotorVac is. any ideas on how to find a MotorVac :)

I think you should start with the ambient temperature sensor at the front bumper. It might be dirty or something. Good luck.

Thank you all for your replies, As for the prices, I know an oil lube shop that does it for $70 whereas the Toyota dealer charges $100. So, they are about the same price because if I have it done at the lube shop I would still have to buy two gallons of antifreeze for about $35. So, I think I’ll have done at the dealer. I have flushed a few cars before, and I know that it is NO FUN. Jacob

My coolant seems to have some rust in it, and I want to flush the cooling the system but not sure which is more effective: flushing it my self at home or having it done at a shop where they hook it up to a machine?

I'll send you an proforma invoice...send me $ 125.000,00 and you'll get one... ← Is that one hundred twenty five dollars? :D

srgilbert, I changed my O2 sensors a few months ago, and I had to use the special oxygen sensor wrench which I got from Autozone (Loan-A-Tools). Good luck. Jacob

In my 1996 LS400, it’s about 2420 rpm at 75 mph

Mike, Out of curiosity, what RPM do you get when cruising at 75mph? Jacob

I replaced the oxygen sensors before the catalytic converters. From what you wrote, I understand that diagnosing this problem is not easy, but I’ll keep trying :) Thanks Jacob

1996 LS400 with 117K. And, yes I'm still getting exactly the same codes. Do you think a vacuum leak would cause such codes to be triggered? Your help is highly appreciated Jacob

That’s true, I was told it was PO420 and 430 (both banks). As for the oxygen sensors, I have already replaced them with Denso first time fit (about $119 for two sensors). Replacing the sensors didn’t solve the problem but it increased the mileage from 15 to 17-18 mpg (mostly city driving). Jacob