mspin24

Thank you for that. I'll keep it in mind.

Thanks for your help. How much was that fix?

I currently own a 1996 es300 and I'm looking to step up to the new body style Lexus introduced in 1997. I have done some research on this new model and see that there a lot of good things Lexus did but I did notice one big change in 1999. They introduced a new power train. A VVT motor and new transmission. I have test driven both and I can feel the difference in both but I can also feel a big difference in 96 to 97 in the way they ride. My question is. I want peoples opinion, weather I should buy a 99 or 97-98? If you recommend the 99, why? And if I decide to go with a 97-98 model is there anything I might need to know about them. Like problems. Any help Marc

Thanks for all the help peps.

My 1996 ES300 power antenna seems to have gotten off it's track. The antenna motor works but does not catch the antenna to bring it down, so now it's in the up position. Which is not a bad thing. My question is. Can I fix it myself or will I have to replace it. Any help would be welcomed. Marc Raleigh, NC

Hi Club, What do you think about changing out the CV Joints on 1996 ES300? Is this something I should leave to the experts? Let me know your thoughts. Marc

This morning when I went out to start my 96 ES300 with 82,000 mile I heard a relatively loud knocking/ticking sound coming from what I think is the engine compartment. I turned the car off, let sit for about 30 sec. and resatarted it again. I heard the knocking very faintly and it went away in about 3 sec. I turned off the car once again, and again restarted it. No, knocking anymore. I tried this about 5 more time and no more knocking. FYI: It was about 55 degrees and raining, if that helps. I know I need to get the valve cover gasket and CV boots done, thats coming from my mechanic. Any ideas what it might be. Marc

If there was a leak you might need to give the car a little more time to burn off the oil before the smell goes away. Marc

I dont know how they are on a Lexus but I had them on my 2001 Honda Accord EX V6 and let me tell you, awesome bang for the buck. I'm in Raleigh, NC so we don't get a lot of snow here but we do get rain and I feel like they did just fine. They are a good choice but let me tell about one that I found and did a little better then the Falkens on there rating, at least the rating opinions I got. Nitto Tires. I have them on my 96 ES300, just put them on a couple of weeks ago and really like them. I went a lower profile tire to get better handling and I think I lost some of the comfort in the ride but let me tell you the car sticks to the corner. I picked them up at Discount Tire. Check them out www.tires.com. Thats my two cents if that means anything. Good luck in your tire buying experience.

Thanks Alan. Thats what I thought, It's nice to get someone else's opinion.

I have a 1996 ES 300 with 78,000 miles. It has been well maintained and just recently I have been experiencing a vibration in the steering wheel when I brake. I did get new tires just recently and thats when I noticed it vibrating. There are no vibrations on the steering wheel when I'm just driving. Does anyone think that I might need to have the rotors resurfaced or it might be time for new ones? Can you help?

it only cost $40 to put in a timing belt. ;) How is that?

You debating this oil thing must be a bunch of lawyers. LOL. Points taken, thank you. I'll stick to regular oil and change it ever 30,000 miles. Just playing. I thank you all for your comments and help putting my mind at ease. I'm sticking to the basics.

Thank everbody for your opinions so far. Keep them coming. I'll make the decision at my next oil change. This is a great site.