shepsan

gpz, If you want the exhilaration of a Porsche taking corners at high speed, do not consider the SC430. If you want the growl of a Viper hitting the redline, again do not consider the SC430. If however, you are looking for a car that offers reliability, comfort and luxury, there is none finer then the Lexus SC430. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Those that disparage the exterior style of the SC430 seem to favor sharp edges. I do not. I really like the way the SC430 looks as a convertible and as a coupe. In fact, I think that the elegance of its overall design makes it a match for any luxury car on the market; and, it costs so much less then say the SL500. My SC gets me onto freeways with the burst of speed necessary to safely enter the higher speed lanes. It also cruises comfortably at whatever speed I wish to choose when traveling across long desert stretches between cities. The interior of the SC is superior to any new Audi, BMW or Mercedes I have ever owned (and I have owned quite a few). My 2008 is tasteful and luxuriously appointed. The hard top roof raises and lowers quickly and enables me to enjoy a cruise down the boulevard or drive comfortably in poor weather. With good tires to replace the run flats, I think that the SC430 is a winner in every way.

Go to www.lexus.com and access under guides the Navigation Installation Guide. You can download the PDF file. It contains both text and illustrations showing the location of the SC430 DVD unit and how to install the DVD disc.

Although this thread is quite old, I would like to add what I think about the question if a new "SC430 is really worth 60-70k dollars." MSRP is what the manufacturer believes the car will bring in a competitive market. The truth of the matter is what the car means to you in terms of value. To compare a cruiser (SC) to a muscle car (Corvette) is ridiculous and non-productive. Besides price the only real thing the two have in common is style. The muscle car is energy, verve and handling. The cruiser is sedate, elegant, luxurious appointments and comfort. Each has its own purpose in being. Period! Like you, I have my own individual preferences in an automobile. My desires and preferences in a car have changed or evolved over the many years of my driving experience. Whereas once I sought and thrilled to the exuberance of hand-shifting to reach high speeds, to dive around corners and fly on long flat strips of pavement, the subsequent years and physical changes in my body transformed my desires and needs to want a more leisurely and comfortable pace. The list of cars I have owned is long and populated by cars that I have enjoyed and cars that proved to be great disappointments. The cars I enjoyed were to me worth the money I paid for them. Those that disappointed motivated me to believe that they were highly overpriced. I presently own a 2008 SC430. I bought it below MSRP. Having had it for just less than two years, I now think that if I would have had to pay MSRP, it would have been worth it. The only modification I have made from the original purchase has been to replace the run-flat tires with MICHELIN Pilot® Sport A/S 245/40ZR18 93Y. This has transformed the ride to one of smoothness, comfort and exceptional handling. The SC is a perfect fit for me. I no longer have to transport anyone other than my wife, carry any cargo other than a few shopping bags and have the great enjoyment of driving a convertible in good weather and a very good looking coupe during in climate conditions. With its power assist, my SC moves quickly enough to safely enter freeways from on-ramps, cruise at high speed without difficulty and accelerates immediately to very high revs to pass any car in front of me. The appointments of the SC are superb. They exude quality and are rich and enveloping. The instruments are located as they should be to easily read and operate them. Is my SC worth its dollar price? It is to me. Do I think it is a better buy than a Audi, BMW, MB or other fine car at its market price? Yes. Do I think it is for everyone? No. It has its place and is the best choice for me as it meets my desires and has exceeded my every expectation.

I have owned other luxury cars in the price range of the SC. Each had unique attributes and driving charactristics. Lexus has no reason to be ashamed of its SC 430 model. It provides a stylish, yet sedate, comfortable and luxurious convertible with a retractable top. If one who does not require a performance roaster, the SC more than provides the kind of pleasure expected in this class. I bought a 2008 last month. It has exceeded my expectations. The price I paid will give me relibility along with luxury. I cannot say the same for the Audi and BMW cars I have owned. When they performed, they did so quite well. But, relibility was not their strong suit. There is a sentence in an old movie that fits this post. "Don't knock it if you have't tried it."

Thank you. I also like your Sand Pearl. Bet in person it is stupendous. I had originally ordered the Golden Almound but would have had to wait toooooooooo long for it to arrive.

Good morning: Sorry I am so late on this but I added last week to my 2008 SC a set of four Pilot Sport A/S 245/40ZR18 93Y tires. The model # (MSPN): 75552. I paid $1,085 for tires, mounting and tax. The car rides and handles like a dream with them.

Hello I received my new 2008 SC430 two days ago. These are the first photos of it.

Good morning My ES350 demonstrates that specific sound only when engine first started during cold months. The engine does not make that sound during the summer months. Posts in various forums indicate that the noise is peculiar to Lexus and toyota models with this same engine. Since the tapping seems to be a product of this engine and does no harm, I can live with the tap, tap sound. Anyway, it only lasts for the first few minutes of driving.

I do not take issue with the change in recommendation by CU. What muddies the waters about the ES350 is that some vehicles display the transmission problem while others do not. The build date of my 2007 ES350 is April 2007. I purchased it in June. To date, I have not had a single problem or failure of any kind with my ES. It has performed flawlessly. If asked, I would have no hesitation recommending it based upon my personal experience with it. Nevertheless, many other owners have had failures with their transmissions. The fact that so many Toyota and Lexus cars equipped with the same engines and transmissions demonstrate the problem, would lead many potential buyers to pass on these vehicles. One would think that Toyota would have corrected the problem by now. Reliability is one factor that elevated Lexus to its present position of excellence and quality. This issue does nothing to enhance their reputation but instead, creates doubt about both lines of cars..

I am sorry that some have had problems with their ES350's. I have not had a single problem or failure of any kind with mine. It has proven to be well-fitted, reliable, comfortable and enjoyable to drive. Most first year models produce minor maladies. They can usually be correted at the dealership However, it seems that the 2007 ES350 has suffered from a number of severe mechanical problems; especially regarding the transmission. This hit or miss, depending on build date, creates great concern and frustration among owners. Fortunately, my ES350 has been a better first year model for me than those American, Audi or BMW brands I have owned. If I have any complaint, it is with the interior lighting. As others have said, the lack of good illumination at the various home garage or entry gate buttons is pathetic. After six months of ownership, I still fumble with the buttons during night time when I try to open my garage. Outside of this minor inconvenience, I am well satisfied with my ES350.

I have used regular unleaded 87 since the first fill-up. No problems encountered. City driving 20mpg; freeway 32mpg. Mix of city and highway 24mpg. Have no idea what I would get if I used premium gasoline but am satisfied with performance and have the benefit of low cost gasoline.

Wooha317, your opinion on this subject and mine are very much the same. In fact, I have commented on this in other forum threads. It is a fact that many ES350 owners have experienced specific problems with their cars. It is also a fact that many other owners such as myself have had nothing but excellent experience with our ES350. I attribute this mixture to the kind of difficulties associated with first model year vehicles. There may be design defects and perhaps bugs in certain first year cars that should have been fixed before the model's release. However, taking evrything into consideration and comparing my ES350 to other first year model cars made by other brands, I find the ES to be simply terrific. It is still amazing to me that the price of my ES350 was less than half of my former "luxury" car. Yet, I think it is a finer car with better performance, greater comfort, more features and a higher level of technology then any other car I have ever owned (and, I might add, I have owned thirty-nine cars to date). Lastly, I peruse automobile forums to read other owners comments. However, I still do my own detailed research, test drive competitive brands and then make my selection for a car that best meets my desires and needs. The ES350 is the one I chose in June. It has met my every expectation.

In one word, NO. Why shepsan? U don't like LS? OR going fom new to old is an issue... talk to me in more detail.... akhawaja. I tried to be brief in my initial response but since you asked me to provide detail, here it is: I believe that choosing an automobile involves both objectivity and subjectivity. Objectivity is a simple matter of comparing factual things. Subjectivity is what one’s senses relay. Everyone can look at statistics and see the same things. However, what one feels, excitement or pleasure is an altogether different thing. I consider both the LS430 and the 2007 ES350 models to be excellent automobiles. They are similar yet quite different in many ways. The main difference is that the LS is two to three years older than the ES. Regardless of the manner in which its previous owner cared for it, there has to be a measurable amount of wear accumulated. Secondly, its warranty has been reduced because of the miles driven. Any 2005 automobile will have a lesser amount of miles remaining before its warranty is exhausted than an automobile with a new warranty. The next consideration is that the LS is a rear wheel 8-cylinder powered car while the ES is a front wheel 6-cylinder powered car. To some, this equates to both a significant difference in power and handling control. With today’s stop-and-go driving, freeway travel and even interstate journeys, either car handles the driving with power, comfort and enjoyment. Thus, I think this matter is a non-issue. The ES however, does these things as safely but at a more economical rate of gasoline cost per mile than the LS. The LS is about six inches longer, one inch higher and less than one-half inch wider than the ES. Except for length, these figures are not so different as to make any significant difference in garage or street parking. Interior dimensions are equally similar with the LS offering a bit more room for driver and passengers. The real difference in size is that of cargo space with the LS having approximately 6 cuft. more space than the ES. I find both models meet my needs as far as physical comfort and storage needs are required. Those are factual things. Sensory aspects differ from person to person. I do not find that the LS has any greater number or more technically advanced creature comforts than the ES. In fact, I favor those installed in the 2007 ES to be superior to those in the 2005 LS. Styling is also in the eye of the beholder. I favor the ES exterior styling because it presents to my eye a sleeker overall image. With regard to interiors, the ES is more understated. I do not find it as opulent as the LS. Yet, it fits my personality better. Lastly, my history of automobile ownership began a long time ago and is quite extensive. I have owned numerous expensive and high-powered luxury cars. I presently own a 2007 Lexus ES350. Considering everything, I would not trade my ES for any of my former cars. It meets my needs in a car and pleases my desire for power, luxury and comfort. Now, if I had to compare it with the 2008 LS, I might have another opinion. Good luck with your decision.

In one word, NO.

When I went to the local Lexus dealer to buy the GS450h on June 20, I saw a ES350 adjacent to a GS450h on the lot. This will probably sound incongruous, but looking at the two of them side by side, I thought that the lines of the ES was more pleasing. I sat in the driver's seat of the ES and immediately found the "fit" of the cockpit to be appealing and had the sensation that the interior was larger than the GS. During my test drive of the ES, I thought the car felt more comfortable to me than either my M45 or the GS450h. Second, the handling, while not as visceral as that of the M45 with its rear wheel drive, was quite good. Most surprisingly, the ES had excellent power and acceleration with a smaller engine.. After the test drive I looked at the GS again and implusively told the saleman that I wanted to buy the ES instead of the GS. I have now had the ES for 111 days. Unlike many who have had mechanical failures with this model, mine has operated flawlessly. I am very happy with my choice. In closing, I thank all that have responded to this tread.

Lexuus, in response to your question, I was born in 1931. Although old , I am till kicking, enjoy driving my Lexus and read the spirited and informative comments posted in this forum with great interest..

Recently, when I have purchased a make of automobile for the first time, I check the internet forums devoted to that brand of vehicle. I do so in order to learn and benefit from the experience of those who own the same make and model. In June of this year, I sold my 2006 Infiniti M45 and bought my first Lexus, the 2007 ES350. Compared to the M45, the ES350 is understated not only in power and performance but also in both exterior design and interior opulence. These characteristics suit me just fine. In fact, they are exactly what I want in a car. In other words, I wanted to move from the M45 tiger to a more sedate, safe, comfortable, luxurious and elegantly styled sedan. The 2007 Lexus ES350 completely meets my criteria. To read the posts in the various Lexus internet forums, one would think that this particular Lexus model is a failure; it does not meet the luxurious standards of previous Lexus models, has serious mechanical defects and has a presence that pales in comparison to others in its class. IMO, this thinking is bunk and uninformed. My automobile and truck ownership and driving experience began in the 1930’s. I have owned thirty-nine vehicles and have leased numerous others. I am an enthusiast and have been fortunate to earn the finances to buy new vehicles quite often. Among my choices have been some exceptional brands and models of cars. Many were modestly priced for the times while others were quite expensive. I began driving with cars equipped with mechanical brakes and had to be double clutched to move from gear to gear to have now progressed to driving today’s cars equipped with electronic magical GPS navigational devices and Bluetooth. What I have learned through my experience is that like courses for horses, there are specific cars for individual people. All of this hooey about the so-called deficiencies that the ES350 displays is nonsense. The ES350 is what it is and for me at least, I find the car visually beautiful, elegantly appointed and the smoothest ride I have ever had in a car. Regarding its power, it is quick enough accelerating and cruising to make the MPG attained a thing to be envied by every other car on the road. One last thing about wood in the enterior, coming from the M45 with its forest of wood directly in the line of sight to the classic look of the ES cockpit, I find the ES view much classier. If the ES350 does not please or fit you, sell it and get something else. The choices are endless.

Are you talking about when you post a new topic or reply to a post? If so, there is a row of drop down boxes above the text box. There is one that says "sizes". Pick the size you want from the drop down menu. Thank you very much.

Cannot find instructions how to increase size of text in this Lexus Owner's Club? Please tell me how. Thank you.

Good-Man, I am a bit confused by the lack of warranty for tire replacements on your car. Shouldn't Toyo warranty your tires to cover replacements as my Bridgestone Tire warranty does? I would think that Lexus would mount tires, regardless of mfg, to cover at least 36,000 miles These are the tires on my 2007 ES350: Bridgestone Turanza EL 400 P215/55R17 98V/MIS Tubeless Radial/EL4PKZ Dot 7XPJ PM5/080 This is the Bridgestone Warranty: WARRANTY SUMMARY 80,000 MILE LIMITED TREADWEAR WARRANTY† 80,000 MILE LIMITED TREADWEAR WARRANTY† (T-Speed Rated) 50,000 MILE LIMITED TREADWEAR WARRANTY† 50,000 MILE LIMITED TREADWEAR WARRANTY† (H- & V-Speed Rated) The Turanza EL400 with UNI-T gives you demand of the road with easygoing comfort. UNI-T technology delivers state-of-the-art traction on wet and dry roads. The style is premium. But the price is suprisingly manageable. †Prorated replacement if warranted mileage not attained; actual tread life my vary. Certain restrictions and limitations may apply. Ask your retailer for details. ††Replacement at no charge (excluding taxes and disposal fees) if your Bridgestone tire becomes unusable for any reason within the manufacturer's control for up to 3 years from date of purchase or 4 years from date of manufacture, whichever is to the owner's advantage. Certain restrictions and limitiations may apply. ‡Original proof of purchase required to take advantage of the 30 Day Test Drive. Tires must be returned within 30 days of purchase. Does not apply to tires supplied as original equipment on new vehicles.

I do not think that near-future "significant" change to either the ES or GS models is an issue. Both models will have only slight modifications for a number of years to come. The important factor to me is that the GS and BMW are performance cars while the ES is a sedate and more comfortable ride. It has plenty of power and all of the features one wishes in a luxury autombile. If you want the visceral thrill of diving in and out of curves, buy the GS or BMW. If you want a serene ride, buy the ES. Regardless of which car you buy, the quality of each should allow for better than average resale when you are ready to move on to a new car. My choice is the ES350.

B)--> QUOTE(master B @ Jun 26 2007, 01:00 PM) ← Just wondering if anyone else has had the problem with their cell phone's audio performance with the bluetooth function thru the ES-350 audio system.Although the phone links ok, the person speaking in the car via the bluetooth function sounds like they are on a speakerphone at the end of a short hallway. I have a 2006 model silver Motorola RAZR that uses Verizon service and regardless of the signal strength, there is a delay in the audio and the person speaking in the car sounds like they are on a speakerphone at the end of a short hallway or tunnel. I tried Lexus service and the Verizon store, but no help. Although they both acknowledge the problem, they have not offered any recommendations or solutions. Verizon will no longer try different model phones in the car, in an attempt to remedy the problem - apparently at the direction of their corporate offices. Wondering if anyone has a specific phone model (preferrably with Verizon service) that works really well with the ES-350 bluetooth that runs thru the audio system. I did not get the navigation system on my car. Would appreciate any suggestions! Sorry to hear about your difficulty. Although I have Alltel as my provider, I do use the Motorola VC3 Razr in my ES350 via Bluetooh. No echo, tunnel effect or feedback. It simply works well.

Hello. I too am a noobie; not to owning fine automobiles but to this forum. I responded to another thread on this site regarding my take on the ES350 so I won't repeat it here. If you want my detailed reply go to : http://us.lexusownersclub.com/forums/index...mp;#entry249105 I will tell you this, IMO there is not another car on the market that gives what you have stated you want than the 2007 ES350. Without question, the price of a fully loaded ES350 does not come close to reaching the price of the German or other Japanese brands. . . . and, I do not mean their entry models. I not consider the 2007 ES350 as an entry model as it predecessor ES models. In fact, with all of its advanced safety, technical and luxury features, it matches or is superior to most of the cars in the Premium Luxury Mid-size Category. One more thing, I have owned and loved/hated my seven Luxury German cars. When they were mechanically fit, they were super in every way. Unfortunately, the Audi and Mercedes were in the shop much too often and the BMW's I owned almost broke me with maintenance charges. On the other hand, the Lexus brand is renowned for its reliability. Some have written about certain problems with the new ES350. I have also read posts from owners who have extolled the fact that their new ES was failure free. I think that the only "6" that offers similar overallk qualities to the ES is the Acura RL But, it does cost much more and I am not sure that the RL is better in the long run. I truly enjoy my ES350. It is graceful, well-appointed, drives like a dream and fits me to a T. Good luck with your decision. Let us know what you decide and then, regardless of what you buy, give us a report on it.

Congratulations swami. I wish you and your wife many years of enjoyable and safe driving with your new Lexus.

I did not negotiate a holdback or advertising fee. During the brief time I have had the car, it has performed as expected. The ambiance of the car exceeds my expecatons and can only be enjoyed after driving the car for a number of day. It truly is a beautiful automobile. In the past, I have owned cars that were more expensive cars. Many were more powerful with larger engines. Some were even considered to be performance oriented. Nevertheless, I find that this ES really fits me well. It has the features I enjoy in a car, is luxuriously appointed and is a quiet driving car. I also really like its interior and exterior dimensions. So, all in all, I am quite satisfied to own and drive it.