Cygnus

Thanks for the replies. Even though I mostly lurk here, I've learned a tremendous amount and become a much more informed buyer and owner. I was fortunate enough to purchase the LS400's from first or second owners with complete service records and you've reinforced that's even more important with the RX300. I think we'll limit our search to 2001 or later. We're also looking at the Infinity QX4. Anyone have feedback on that vehicle? -Sean

I'm on my second LS400 (a 1996, the first one was a 1991, bought both used), and have been extremely happy with both cars. We're about to replace the wife's Toyota 4Runner (also very happy with this vehicle) and are considering the RX300, probably a 1999 or 2000. The RX300 gets really high marks with JD Power. Would I expect to have a similar maintenance/repair experience with the RX300 that I've had with the LS400s? What major items should I be on the lookout for? Is the transmission problem I've been reading about limited to the AWD models? Is this a purchase you would recommend? Thanks in advance for your input. -Sean

The Outside Temp LED on my 96 LS400 randomly changes to wierd numbers like -21 F. Sometimes it's right on the money, then out of nowhere it will change to a much lower temperature. If the A/C is running in Auto mode it seems to stop blowing cold the moment the outside temp changes to an extreme low reading. Is this a bad sensor? If so, is this an easy DIY fix?

I need to replace the switch control for the passenger seat in my '91 LS400. Are there DIY steps for removing the seats and/or replacing the switch?

Shameless bump. Anybody seen these symptoms?

The LCD display (but not backlight) and audio are not working, but the controls are. If the stereo is off and I push the FM 1/2 button, the LCD backlight comes on and the antenna goes up. If I push the volume (on/off) button, the LCD backlight goes out and the antenna goes down. If I push the CD button, the LCD backlight comes on. If I push the disc button, the changer in the trunk switches disks. Any ideas?

You'll find all kinds of Lexus parts on Ebay. Also, do a forum search here and you'll get lots of sources as well. Good luck! Sean

Log on to Lexus.com and register your vehicle. You can then request an owner's manual. They send it free and it comes pretty quick. Sean

Previous owner of my 91 LS400 had 225/65/15 Pirelli's when I bought it. They were worn and I just put on 205/65/15 Michelin Energy MXV4 Plus (V Rated). I like the ride much better. Great deal at Costco right now, $80 off a set, so I paid about $120 ea.

93LS, I wish I would have read this before bidding on This uncut remote key with programming instructions on Ebay. :o Are you sure there's no way to program these? If not, I'm going to retract my bid, if possible. Sean

Any chance in hell of replacing the steering wheel on my '91 LS400 with a 2000 LS400 steering wheel? My steering wheel is worn, and I really like the wood/leather wheels. Sean

Well, I went ahead and purchased my neighbor's 91 LS400. I am already in love with this car (driven it one day), and nobody who sees it can believe it's 13 years old! There are a few minor issues I'd like to take care of, and I'm looking for tips/tricks/advice: 1. Steering wheel is worn. Best place to find replacement? How tough to replace DIY? 2. Gear shift handle is worn. Best place to find replacement? How tough to replace DIY? 3. Climate Control LCD. I haven't seen the definitive answer on the Jim Walker vs. Mikado debate. Price is about the same if you use Mikado thru Ebay auction. Does Jim's quality outweigh the non-standard lettering on the LCD? 4. Some button lights on the stereo are out. Best place to find replacement? How tough to replace DIY (I'll already have the stereo out of the dash when replacing the climate control LCD). 5. Rear-view mirror LCD. Best place to find replacement? How tough to replace DIY? 6. Remote key. Any place besides the dealer to get one? 7. The cloth speaker grill has come loose on one of the corners. Any way to stuff it back into place without removing the door panel? Thanks to all who replied to my earlier thread and pushed me over the edge to purchase this vehicle. I have a feeling I'm purchasing Lexus' from here on out so I look forward to getting more involved here at LOC. Sean

Thanks for the replies and the great information. I just stumbled across lexusownersclub.com today and man, am I impressed! Regarding the LS400: He's firm @ 5K. He said he's done 5K in repairs over the last two years and wants to recoup that. The vehicle is pearl white/grey w/ grey interior.

KBB: $6,100 Private Party, $8,085 Retail

My neighbor is upgrading to a new Lexus and has offered me his '91 LS400 for 5K. 197K mi, Loaded, Timing chain replaced 17k ago, A/C compressor replaced, PS pump replaced, rear bushings replaced, rotors/pads replaced. Maintained per manufacturer's schedule. Climate control LCD is black (looks like about a $150 job via ebay). Some paint chipping on rear bumper, but extremely clean & ding free otherwise. Seems like a great deal, what do you all think?