Re-posting (07/10/2014) I've owned my 2005 LS430 for over a year now: Here are some of the
The good:
1. Smooth, silky, quiet ride 2. 18" wheels/tires provide better than expected handling. 3. Good higher speed acceleration. 4. High quality workmanship inside and out. 5. 18 - 20 mpg average
The Bad: Some issues I have had that I would not expect for such a "high rated" flagship car.
1. Mark Leverson stereo: CDs jam all the time. The sound is not accurate or high quality as implied. 2. the GPS is practically useless by todays standards. Un-intutitve is the 1st word that comes to mind and overly complicated, and inaccurate. The dealer charges $100.00+ for a map update which involves a DVD tucked inside the trunk area. Phonebook sync not compatable to Droid or Apple OS. 3. The front suspension is going to require a whole lot of work (80,000 miles) Developed recent loud clunking and steering sheer on even smaller bumps. (My 1996 Accura and 97 Accord had over 150,000 miles without any suspension issues) 4. $2000 + to replace the timing belt, pullies, waterpump at 90,000 miles 5. Poor visibility (Blind spots) and side mirror adjustment motor works intermittantly. 6. Have to lower moon roof vent manually before using the sliding moon roof. 7. 1-2 second delay when needing quick acceleration from a near stand still in heavy traffic. (very un-nerving) 8. Cooled seats don't work well compared to newer models. Heated seats are adequate. 9. If you get a flat, don't try to jack the car up and change the tire as the frame is covered with a panel that will crack. 10. A lot of wind noise when opening sun roof at higher speeds. (friends BMW 545i is whisper quiet at highr speeds)
I need to determine whether I want to pump 3 to 4 thousand dollars into this car to keep it optimal and if I feel comfortable that it will be reliable for a longer period of time or downgrade for more reliablity, milage ...etc
