ShawnOklahoma

A couple things could be happening: -Firstly, if it's the VSC/VSC OFF then it is very common. This is most liekly that the mechanics hooked up a OBDII reader and didn't exit the reader application properly which triggered the dash light. It is very common. There is actually a procedure to clear the light. I will post the procedure to the link. If you feel that the "jumper method" is too complicated, you can return to the shop and have them clear it and tell them you read that not exiting the ODBII app caused the light. But try the other methods below first. http://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc430-2nd-gen-2001-2010/438992-sc430-check-engine-light-vsc-and-vsc-off-light.html & http://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc430-2nd-gen-2001-2010/416764-vsc-vsc-off-lights-2.html -The second thing that is common, is a bad gap cap seal. Try to tighten the gas cap. If this doesn't clear the light, you might have to do a ECU reset (which means disconnecting the negative side of the battery for about 5 minutes) to clear the dash light. http://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc430-2nd-gen-2001-2010/818421-check-engine-light-with-p0440-code.html -Thirdly, loose valve covers which tend to leak oil. I've heard many owners do tighten them by hand occasionally to stop the leak. It is such a minute leak, that many do not notice it on the floor of garages or parking spots, so this could be an additional problem in your situation. Lexus charging you to replace them seems shady when a hand tightening would have solved the problem. Just saying. -Lastly, the mechanics could have knocked off one of the EVAP lines on the drivers side near the oil dip stick (most common place for a loose EVAP line- usually from excessive engine knock indicating bad engine mounts). Check this out. If it is disconnected, reconnect it and do an ECU reset (as stated above). http://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc430-2nd-gen-2001-2010/514261-check-engine-light-on-crap.html Oh... just found this... could be the charcoal canister of the EVAP system... http://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc430-2nd-gen-2001-2010/619081-check-engine-evap-emission-control-p0440-and-p0446.html Good luck, Let us know what results.

No problem. I would recommend (as above) to lose the OEM wheels and runflats and go aftermarket. More options to represent your personal style, and better ride quality after ditching the runflats. Be warned though, if you go with nonrunflat tires and choose not to get a spare in the trunk, you are in (more) danger to be stranded on the road side. As for the radiator, they do go bad quite often on these cars. Easy and cheap to replace. I luckily haven't had the problem, but have read about many that have. Apparently it is an easy swap and the entire OEM radiator is available online and through Lexus dealerships. You can always go aftermarket also. In any case, I was recommend staying with the OEM Denso products, and thus would recommend you replace with the OEM Denso radiator. It might not be leaking at this time but if there is truly a leak even at the gasket, at high engine temp the leak can become worse due to increased pressure and even cause detrimental engine damage and overheating. I have posted a thread that should explain more, as I haven't had this particular problem. My recommendation, change the radiator. Not sure if the pressure that the mechanic applied could have made it worse, or even caused the problem, but in any case you now have a leak and it should be either repaired or entire radiator replaced. http://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc430-2nd-gen-2001-2010/650501-2006-sc430-radiator-broke-engine-ruined.html http://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc430-2nd-gen-2001-2010/811020-possible-for-coolant-to-leak-into-the-gearbox.html http://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc430-2nd-gen-2001-2010/794634-radiator-replacement-diy.html

I don't think either cars have the chrome wheels. I believe he has about 4 or 5 of the alloy pie plate wheels. Sorry.

Trunk lid struts failing is very common. Most replace with ones from ebay, which are much cheaper. Many go with Ebay seller, LiftDepot. I've replaced mine before but can't recall with which brand. Very easy to change yourself. Only takes a flat head screwdriver and about 10 minutes. You can also buy from a Lexus dealer, or order online from http://www.lexussouthatlantaparts.com/ (most other online Lexus parts are discontinued now- such as Sewell Lexus of Dallas). I wouldn't recommend buying a salvage set of lifters, as they are used and would most likely give you the same problem sooner rather than later. Good luck.

Hello everyone. one of my fellow SC430 owners has TWO SC430's that he is parting out. He asked me to be his contact and to field questions via this forum since I am quite active and have experience with these cars. Both cars are listed below in "light" details at this moment. I will update with more info as he provides them. If you need parts, please let me know which ones and I will respond with photos and/or prices. Both cars are located in the Chicago, IL metro. I can also be contacted via text or cell at 816.304.7399. If I'm unable to answer, please text with your request. Thanks 2002 SC430 Black Exterior, Black Interior with Dark Walnut Woodgrain 2003 SC430 Black Exterior, Tan Interior with Dark Walnut Woodgrain

Sounds like your subwoofer is blown. There is a 8" subwoofer directly behind the rear seat back, right in the middle. It is very common for the subwoofer to deteriorate over time, which leads to a horrible vibration sound from the rear. I've replaced mine with an aftermarket subwoofer that I wired in series in order to keep the same resistance of the OEM subwoofer to avoid burning out the OEM ML amp. A lot more bass and a lot better sound than the weak stock SC430 subwoofer. Here a helpful DIY guide... http://www.clublexus.com/forums/lexus-audio-video-security-and-electronics/288367-speaker-install-sc430.html

Two things come to mind when I read both your issues. First is, as noted above, that the button is sticking and not allowing solid contact with the underlying electronics. Secondly, the door has a common problem of coming off the track. Check both of these issues and let us know. I will search for a fix for the track repair, if that turns out to be your problem. Let me know. good luck.

Awesome Chuck, maybe you can give us a little review of it. Some of it's functions? When playing music from your phone via the bluetooth connection, does it display any track info? Do it say AUX on the text? What does pressing the next track on the radio do? What about next track on the steering wheel control? Are all other steering controls still functional? Are you able to accept phone calls? Does the SL3B have an aux input (RCA or 3.5mm), or is it only bluetooth? Thanks!

I replied to your post on the other thread. Check it out for the info you've requested.

I have a full set. Just emailed you.

My 2002 has 51k miles now. Still running the original timing belt, waterpump, bearings, seals ,etc. I've heard all the stories about everyone replacing these items before lighting strikes, as they usually fail with age vs mileage (usually the water pump seizes before the the belt tears), and the results can be disastrous. With that being said, I'm taking the chance as I can't afford the new water pump and timing belt kit and install. I have replaced the serpentine belt due to squeaking. I am told that the timing belt usually never fails on it's own. There is a full kit by Aisin that is the best for the SC430. I was told that if you replace the belt you should replace the water pump at the same time, and it's usually included in any shops' labor any way. Just some thoughts for you to consider.

I believe the grey carpet in the trunk is the same across all years. I really dislike it for a few reasons. It's too light and if you ever transport a tire or any tools, you must be careful are else they will really discolor the grey. Dark, dark grey would have been a smarter choice. The trunk trim (trunk latch plate and tonneau cover) is also a standard across the years as a taupe type color. Also, all the cars have off white trim on the interiors (windshield A pillars, roof, rear view mirrors) regardless of the actual leather trim (except possibly the Pebble Beach edition that had Pimento Red Interior so not sure what changed with this model in terms of interior trim). I will say that I have seen a black rearview mirror for sale. It's pretty cool, but very expensive compared to normal off white. Plus installing it would require taking apart the roof windshield trim. Not my cup of tea. The beige you're referring to is actually called Ecru, and is very unique for sure, but also very hard to keep clean and care for. As for the floor mats and carpet. I believe the beige carpet was standard for all Ecru interior but the mats could be altered. I've attached a link of the available options, for my understanding. https://www.lpartsworld.com/product/SC430-CARPET-FLOOR-MATS/PT208-240/61/

I can't really answer that, I only had the option of the SL3U since I have a 2002. I don't know much about the SL3B or any reviews from anyone that has purchased one, sorry. But you are correct about my setup. I cannot change track via the wheel controls nor display track info on neither the NAV or radio. I will say one thing though, I doubt the SLB3 can display track info to the GPS Screen. Maybe the radio, but don't see how it can connect to the GPS screen. If you do journey down the SL3B path, please do a small DIY and review of your results. I would be really interested to see your thoughts on it.

Also, if you're interested in either screen mirroring with/without Bluetooth and adding video (maybe a reverse camera), a great company called NavIKS makes a device that will allow these function... check it out... http://www.ebay.com/itm/Fits-Lexus-SC-430-2002-2010-Navigation-Video-Interface-Add-TV-DVD-Backup-Camera-/251336118498?hash=item3a84ccd0e2&vxp=mtr HDMI Connection http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1313.TR4.TRC2.A0.H0.Xnaviks.TRS0&_nkw=naviks&_sacat=0 Wifi Connection http://www.ebay.com/itm/NAVIKS-Wireless-Smartphone-Mirror-Interface-iPhone-Android-Compatible-/252058905983?hash=item3aafe1ad7f&vxp=mtr

If you don't find a reasonable solution directly from VaisTech for Bluetooth integration, I would recommend getting the VaisTech SL3U and then a stand alone Bluetooth adapter. I used Arion/Eagletech Bluetooth dongle which I specifially bought b'c it allows me to change track forward and reverse, change volume, and even make and take phone calls from a dongle without having to even touch my phone. I did, however, do a full media conversation... here's my build. http://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc430-2nd-gen-2001-2010/691835-dvdnav-media-integration-naviks.html

Sorry, double entry. deleted post.

As someone who runs two sets of tires (summer and winter), I have two sets of TPMS installed. Both are programmed by Lexus, as lots of other tire shops I went to told me that they do not have the proper programming device to set the TPMS sensors. There is a small switch on the side of the glove box. When I switch tires, I am supposed to change that switch. Very rarely does this work and every season (every tire change), I have to return to Lexus. In a perfect world, this system works as it should. Takes about 10 minutes to erase the old sensors and set the new ones. Luckily since I paid the $80 first time, they've done it gratis since (as it's their fault that it never retains in the car's memory as TPMS set 1 vs TPMS set 2). I choose to keep my TPMS and avoid the black tape, as the sensors has saved me a few times (highway at 75mph, tire deflated and shredded on me). Saved me to know that it wasn't an error b'c the light came on immediately. Secondly, it truly sounds like your problem might be a dying battery in one of your sensors. Works fine for a while, then signals out. Only way to diagnose is to take it to Lexus and let them hook up a computer to the OBDII port. $200 for diagnostic sounds insane, though! Maybe try a different dealer.

You've made a great choice! You won't regret it. I used to drive my parents LS400 back in the day and have since stayed with the Lexus band. That quick acceleration on the LS was great! I once ruled a 99 camaro with it. Anyway, the SC430 was a solid choice as my first luxury car and haven't regretted it since. The top is pretty much flawless if you keep it maintained every once in a while (ie. lube the frame and joints). The engine is really reliable, but do check if the timing belt, water pump, and gaskets have been replaced. If not, try to plan it. I have a 2002 coming up with 50k miles and I haven't done it but everyone always scares me about it. If the timing belt breaks, it can cause major catastrophic engine failure. Just a thought to keep in your head. Additionally, I would also ditch the pie plates for a much nicer wheel. Maybe 20"? I'm running 20" and it fills the fender wells soooo nice. Also, if you haven't done so already, ditch the runflats. It will totally change the ride quality. If speed is of interested, think about having the transmission pressure changed from soft to firm... there's a thread that I can link if this interests you. Anyway, congrats and welcome to the SC family!

So I did notice that on extremely heavy rains when I was down visiting Shreveport Lousiana, my car would experience some very very strange symptoms. After doing a ton of testing and troubleshooting, I found that the grommet that is on the passenger side toward the engine had been pushed away from the metal firewall and a small amount of water was getting to my passenger fusebox. Water was travelling behind the battery pan and down my 12v wire for my bass system that runs to the trunk and slowly dripping onto the fuse box. It was strange, but my symptoms consisted of lock/unlock problems, passenger window not rolling down from driver's side, memory and mirror settings not functional and a few other things. Not sure if this would also explain any of your starting problem, but it's one thing to check out. -Oh sorry I guess i misread... your problem occurs with direct sunlight... hmm. Sorry, i thought you mentioned it was occurring after rain. But, I'll leave my post as it might be helpful to someone else. Good luck.

Awesome! Thanks so much! I'm going to ask the dealer to change some of my settings. I hope they won't charge some ridiculous fee. Doesn't seem fair to punch buttons on some machine at the cost of full labor charge.

1990LS, do you think you can locate a list of the available programming options? I'd be interested to see what can be changed.

Sorry guys, but Sewell Lexus no longer offers online ordering nor part diagrams. Total bummer, I know.

You could also try the "jumper" fix. Totally free. Check this thread.... http://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc-430/268137-vsc-lights-and-scangauge.html

LEX-SV- do you have a 2007 SC430 or a IS350? I'm not sure about the IS but the SC430 is notorious for parasitic drain. Lots of threads on another forum about dead batteries. Most owners will need a jump after leaving the car sitting for 5+ days. My new battery got me 7 days and a first crank start. I feel I could have gone longer, but needed to drive after 7 days. The IS probably has a better track record than the SC in terms of battery life. I feel like it's like comparing apples and oranges.

My Interstate Battery is a MegaTron Plus (MTP-48/H6) with 730 CCA. Guaranteed for 6 Years. http://www.interstatebatteries.com/Products/RT/PID-MTP-48~H6%28Automotive+Truck%29.aspx?dsNavigation=Ntk~SearchGroup%7Cinterstate+mtp+h6%7C3%7C%2CNy~True%2CNtpc~Disabled%2CNs~product+Type%7C101%7C1%7C%2CN~4277760298&Title=Mega-Tron+Plus+-+85+Months+-+770+CCA