Jono

I've been using a K&N air filter for over 4 years now in my SC400 and haven't noticed any problems. When I installed it my gas mileage instantly went up. Also, when the filter starts getting dirty the gas mileage decreases slightly but immediately goes up after cleaning the filter.

The whining noise could be the result of a loose belt. Check the fluid level as well. The tie rods are easy to replace and are not too costly. I replaced my tie rods and it made a big difference. Mine were also rattling when going over small bumps in the road. The tires "slipping" at really low turning speeds has been reported by other owners as well. My tires seem to slip a bit on really smooth concrete while turning at low speeds. Since this continued after replacing the tire rods, I don't think your tie rods are the cause. I'm not even sure there is a problem. Good luck!

I recently used a product by Lucas to seal a leak in my steering rack. It seems to be working quite well and the steering feel has improved. However, this was just a temporary measure since I still plan to replace the rack next month.

The only place I'm aware of that you can get OEM comparable rubber bushes for the LCA is from VFT Bushes (Vlamos bushes: vftbushes.com), which is located in Queensland, Australia. I put a set in my car and the improvements were definitely worth the money.

Did you ever find out what the problem was? My '92 SC400 is doing pretty much the same thing now. The idling is always jumping up from about 700rpm to 1200rpm. It almost never drops below 700rpm. Today it actually shot up to 3,000rpm and dropped back to regular idle after a few seconds. Based on my search results in this forum, I had the throttle body cleaned out, all the hoses connected to the MAF, intake, etc are intact, and no engine codes are showing up. Not sure if the throttle position sensor needs to be replaced but I thought it would show a code if it was needed. Any help assistance/suggestions be great.

It is a belt. The dealership can provide you with more specific info but I believe they generally recommend replacing every 60,000 - 80,000 miles at a cost of about $1,200, which includes a new water pump, gaskets, etc. In terms of getting more info on that SC at no cost, your other option is to visit or phone the dealership that serviced the car. Chances are good that they know the car and could tell you what has been done to it and what work may be needed. I took that approach when looking at several SC's and got some very useful info from the service department. Since it seems difficult to find a SC that is in good shape and at a reasonable price, this could be the right buy for you. Good Luck!

That deal sounds average based on the info provided. I suggest closely looking at the records to determine what work has been done since if some of the typical problems that occur with these vehicles haven't happened yet with the car, then you may wish to prepare for those. For example, power steering pump and condensating headlamps. It's also very worthwhile finding out when the timing belt was last changed - that's a big ticket item. If you are serious about this purchase, the Lexus dealership could check it out for a few bucks. Although they are more expensive than most shops, they will know the car and presumably will know what to look for - especially that problem with the heat.

The SC400 is a reliable vehicle and you can confirm that through some research. That said, your research will also reveal that with high mileage and age these cars develop some common problems, many of which are discussed in this forum and in other Lexus club sites. The topics are definitely worth checking out. Generally speaking, operating and maintenance costs are a factor for whomever is paying the bills and I'm certain you're aware by now that the SC400 won't be cheap to operate. Unless you have options, also be prepared for high dealership service and repair costs. All these factors can weigh heavier than reliability after a while. Lastly, expect to see the day that the 16 year old wants to start the performance upgrades.

Thanks for the responses. The arms are straight and the bolts are tight. Although I haven't opened the hood while the arms were up, I can easily see that happening. I have the old wiper arms so I'll experiment with various spring tensions. (not sure how since they're not adjustable but I'll innovate)

I've tried a lot of approaches to get rid of windshield wiper chatter on my '92 SC400. The chatter does not happen when the windshield is initially clean but after only several miles in rainy conditions, the wipers start making noise. Here's what I've done but none of them have made much of a difference: Tried various brands of wipers blades: OEM and aftermarket, including teflon coated Replaced the wiper arms with new ones Installed a new windshield (previous one needed to be replaced anyway) Used different windshield cleaning and polishing products Tried several Rain-X type products Teflon window washing fluid About the only thing I haven't done yet is the wiper motor and linkages. I've searched many websites that deal with this subject and I'm out of solutions, and frankly exasperated. Any suggestions out there (other than getting rid of the car) ???