No major issues were uncovered with the drivetrain, though a recall was issued for a possibly faulty transmission component. If affected, the transmission could wind up not actually parking when the shift lever is set to 'P', which could have expensive consequences. Dealers can check the transmission and replace as necessary- so if considering a used LS, be sure to have this checked out.
Another recall dealt with the fuel pump- which could be adversely affected by the alcohol content of fuel and wind up seizing. In this scenario, a sudden stall would occur, which would result in a crash. Another recall was intended to remedy a potentially faulty airbag which may not deploy properly in an accident.
Helping owners keep accidents from happening in the first place was the job of a standard traction and stability control system teamed up with antilock brakes. Technology-enabled safety features like adaptive lighting and a millimeter-wave radar-based accident avoidance system were available as well.
LS owners rave about interior space, the comfortable ride and a truly quiet cabin. Others complain about some of the intimidating controls and switches, uninspiring handling and braking, and fuel mileage. Some owners have even grown to dislike the LS's imitation-Mercedes styling cues, too.
Regardless, as a used car, there's a lot to like. Common problems were few and far between- which is especially impressive given the simply ridiculous level of equipment on board. Most of the gadgets are electronic in nature- and nobody builds electronics like the Japanese.
In a market where German automakers are known for niggling electrical issues, the LS proudly holds its head high in the face of the 'more junk to break' naysayers. It's still important to understand and test each feature on a test drive, though it could take the better part of an afternoon.
Common issues deal with noisy brake pads, possible cracking of the heated side mirrors and a fussy trunk latch. The biggest noted problem is a noisy steering column which could emit a groaning sound and require replacement. Really, things could be much worse.
Lexus earned a well-deserved reputation for quality and reliability, and the LS is part of the reason. If you're considering a luxurious flagship, this one should probably top your list.
photo:Toyota
Another recall dealt with the fuel pump- which could be adversely affected by the alcohol content of fuel and wind up seizing. In this scenario, a sudden stall would occur, which would result in a crash. Another recall was intended to remedy a potentially faulty airbag which may not deploy properly in an accident.
Helping owners keep accidents from happening in the first place was the job of a standard traction and stability control system teamed up with antilock brakes. Technology-enabled safety features like adaptive lighting and a millimeter-wave radar-based accident avoidance system were available as well.
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| 2005 Lexus LS 430 |
LS owners rave about interior space, the comfortable ride and a truly quiet cabin. Others complain about some of the intimidating controls and switches, uninspiring handling and braking, and fuel mileage. Some owners have even grown to dislike the LS's imitation-Mercedes styling cues, too.
Regardless, as a used car, there's a lot to like. Common problems were few and far between- which is especially impressive given the simply ridiculous level of equipment on board. Most of the gadgets are electronic in nature- and nobody builds electronics like the Japanese.
In a market where German automakers are known for niggling electrical issues, the LS proudly holds its head high in the face of the 'more junk to break' naysayers. It's still important to understand and test each feature on a test drive, though it could take the better part of an afternoon.
Common issues deal with noisy brake pads, possible cracking of the heated side mirrors and a fussy trunk latch. The biggest noted problem is a noisy steering column which could emit a groaning sound and require replacement. Really, things could be much worse.
Lexus earned a well-deserved reputation for quality and reliability, and the LS is part of the reason. If you're considering a luxurious flagship, this one should probably top your list.
photo:Toyota
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