Sengr

Update: I went back to the mechanic who did the timing job; the dealer and another place for an A/C checkup. The verdict, respectively is: compressor, drive belt pulley and tensioner, and condenser fan motor. I am leaning towards the condenser fan because when in idle, I turned off the a/c button, the fan stops and the noise stops. I would have the fan motor replaced new if I knew absolutely that is the part. So my question is, can I use salvaged part for this? Thank you in advance.

Thanks for the replies. I did take it back to the mechanic and that when I learned it could be the compressor. The mechanic did tell me to pay close attention to the noise. These cars are very quiet. I did a test by turning off the ac at stop light and the noise went away. It is indeed the compressor. Any one of you can estimate the cost of replacing the ac compressor?

I had my timing belt replaced at 89,200 miles for my 1996 LS400. Also had all the belts and hoses replaced. Now the compressor is making a high pitch humming noise. Could my mechanic screwed up or it is just my bad luck? I am asking is there anyway the belts are installed in a way that caused the compressor to make that noise? Your help is much appreciated. And what is the estimate to have the compressor replaced? What do you think about this ad? "This is a denso-reman ac compressor with a 1yr warranty providing a ac flush, ac drier&expansion valve has been changed. we have a ac specialist who can trouble shoot most cars over the phone......contact Freezy our price for complete system ac system including all parts 300.00 our price for labor only......................................................100.00" Also the driver side seat belt was replaced in 2004 at 21000 miles now the front passenger seat belt would not retract also. What gives? I had a 1999 Toyota Avalon that had frayed seat belt replaced with no cost to me.

I am good at regular maintenance like oil change and transmission fluid etc but when it comes to time belt I still have the original at 88200 miles. I have a 1996 LS400 I bought at 19000 miles 6 years ago. I called the dealer when the car was serviced up to 19000 miles and they verified the timing belt has not been replaced. Here is my question: What are essential parts to be replaced when it comes to timing belt? Option one; Independent place: Everything included, cam seals, crank seals, pulleys, TB and WP all in: $995, source of parts claimed to be original from Toyota. Option two: Independent place but claims they only use original Lexus parts, 2 yrs/ 24000 mile TB and WP, $1150, cam and crank seals extra Option three: Toyota dealer TB and WP package, $700 with a one year warranty, cam and crank seal to be looked at upon arrival, could be another $700. Service advisor said the seals are rarely needed. Option four: Lexus dealer Everything included, cam seal, crank seals, pulleys, TB and WP package $1472. Could you all master mechanics verify which are the parts that need to be replaced? Which is the preferred option. I will stop by at option one place and verify the parts source. Thanks very much in advance.

Good news. I do not have to have the engine mount replaced. The independent Lexus "Specialist" (one who was a Lexus service advisor who opened up an independent repair shop who uses 100% Lexus parts) who quoted me $841 for the engine mount and transmission mount actually told me I need to have both mounts replaced. I am glad I went to this Lexus dealer now. They told me my engine mount is okay as is, no tears or worn out signs. That is what we have to do guys, get a second opinion from another Lexus dealer or mechanic and compare their notes. You never know, sometime they recommend thing you do not need. Where do you draw the line though? For me anything over $500, get another look but sometimes mechanics want money up front just to do a diagnostic!

This is an estimate from a Lexus dealer: $645 to replace the transmission mount and engine mount, parts and labor. Is that a fair estimate? I have a 1996 LS 400 with 58500 miles. Last month I had the ball joint and strut bar replaced for $1200. At that time I was told to get the transmission and engine mount replaced to get rid of the vibration issue. Recently I feel the vibration at idle at a stop light, and sometimes it is not there. Basically it comes and go. I am going to have it check out on Friday and that is the estimate I am getting from the dealer. Does it sound fair? Your input are appreciated. Thanks in advance.

I have great news. Found a mechanic to install the CD changer for $70.00. Was lucky to find the glove cover with the same wood trim. Actually even the junk yard mechanic did not know where it was; I found it in the back seat. The junk yard guy said I was lucky. Really glad how things turned out. Total: $100 for CD changer + $70 labor + 40 magazine + 50 glove cover = $260. Hoo Hoo! Here is another question for you all Lexus experts: does the Nacamichi radio works with my Lexus Premium Sound System radio which I assume is Pioneer brand? My radio has problem with the LCD display fading. Another $100 for the radio plus labor.

Hello everyone! Do you have any illustrations on how to install a used CD changer. I am going to buy a CD changer for my 1996 LS400 for $100.00 I was told by a Lexus only mechanic that my car has the wire harness for the CD changer. But he won't touch it. If you guys can shed some light on how to install it would be great. Thanks in advance.

Hi All, Little update here. I found out my car came with the wiring ready for the CD plaaer. I am looking for a CD changer now. I am bidding for one on ebay or maybe call the local junk yards around. What sould I expect to pay? Thanks. For the member who wish to send the CD changer in exchage for my upper glove compartment; I am confused. I thought the unit fits inside the upper comparment, with railing supplied with the CD changer. I need to check lexls.com to find out.

Hi All, I have 1996 LS 400 that I bought used with 42500 miles on it. I planned to keep this baby for a long time so I think it is time to get a CD player installed. I am tired of being teased about a luxury car without a CD player. What is my best option for a CD player? Do I get a used CD Changer from the junk yard? Or do I go get a CD changer installed in the trunk? If I get a used CD changer, where is the best place to get one. If any of you do know where to get a used CD changer, do let me know please. I had priced it at the dealer and it cost likde $1500.00. Ouch! For the second option, is that a valid option? Thanks in advance.

1996 LS400 with 42500 miles. Bought it three years ago with 19650 miles. It has that new car smell still. All maintainance done at dealer. The record shows the first owner did a 45000 miles service already. Carfax record agrees with the dealers. Everyday I am laughing while I am driving it. Chance of a life time. I am a very lucky guy.