Hi All

[hornswoggle]

hi all just got myself a gold LS400 1996 had it only for 3 weeks and im loving it.. the only things i would like to sort out is the front bumper and the wheels need a refurb other then that, its in very good condtion . it was a complete impulse buy is there any thing i should know about this car ?

[Ruud]

hi all just got myself a gold LS400 1996 had it only for 3 weeks and im loving it.. the only things i would like to sort out is the front bumper and the wheels need a refurb other then that, its in very good condtion . it was a complete impulse buy is there any thing i should know about this car ?

Welcome and congrats on your purchase :)

Not that much really. The LS is fairly bulletproof except for some common issues like a leaking power steering pump which, if unattended, can fry the alternator, check suspension parts (specifically wishbones and ball joints) as it's a heavy car. Fading displays...that's about it I think. I'm sure one of the others will jump in soon :)

[steve2006]

Hi and welcome to the LOC,

Good choice of Lexus the biggest and the best!( OK I'm biased)

I think the 1996 model has the power steering pump relocated so it shouldn't be an issue it was only the earlier models that had the problem.

They are heavy cars so front suspension wears usually you get a knocking sound when a problem arises( upper arms/ball joint and lower ball joints), but not too bad.

The alloy wheels have always been a problem with Lexus a lot were replaced under warranty and they are prone to corroding but they can be refurbished reasonably cheaply.

Does it have a full service history?

Ensure the cam belt has been replaced at the correct interval ( if this snaps goodbye engine!), make sure the correct oil is in the engine ( if it has a Lexus History it should have) and check the condition of the transmission fluid on the dip stick ( should be a dark cherry red ( if brown or smells burnt not a good sign).

Finally post some pictures up so we can all see it please.

[Ruud]

I thought the '97 had the pump relocated....my bad :)

[hornswoggle]

thanks for the advice . got her with 130.000 on the clock, last service was at 119.000 so just done the cam belt and full service .will try and get some pictures up.

[Lexus2D]

[spikes]

hi, welcome to loc :D

[steve2006]

I thought the '97 had the pump relocated....my bad :)

Sorry I could be wrong, if it doesn't have transistors in it I am often wrong :D

[Nitmoi]

My 96/7 has the pump over the alternator.