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Malc1 your still 70k miles behind me.

Then there’s Hydrogen Power of course and for which there is some considerable movement in EU and UK wide HGV and Bus use 👍 Malc

Make no mistake the elitist powers to be will enforce EV market through by a gradual though quite quick penalising of ICE ownership. One way or another. The EV market may look f***** now but these manipulators will not be giving up even if it means blatantly lying about CO2 or failing to mention the devastation to the environment of EV production (eg lithium mining, ridiculously incapable grid charging capacity)

i took delivery of a new LBX Premier + design and after just four days I noticed that when the engine changed to EV it was noisy - high on revs is this normal? thx

Hi all, I'm currently doing a cell replacement on my gs450h hybrid battery. While removing the orange connectors. There was one connector which was broken. Can this be repaired or do I have to buy another connector and of so, what is this piece called?

Many thanks Stephen, it was great to meet you and your own lovely SC, especially with the addition of the throttle controller!. I was fortunate enough to be able to gather so many essential spare parts via club members too as they rarely need anything but Tracey has managed to get her way and convinced me to keep the MX5. I might regret it and to be completely honest the SC is simply on another level in term of build quality and refinement. The original launch brochure says it all. Here's a reminder of how special these models are; SC430 – The New Lexus Icon Key Points Incorporates some of the most sophisticated automotive technology available, combined with compact, stylish and avant-garde styling Electrically retractable aluminium hard top combines coupe and convertible in one state-of-the-art concept Careful airflow management ensures highest levels of high-speed, top down comfort and stability, along with a Cd of 0.29 with hard top closed Powerful 282bhp, 4.3-litre, 32-valve V8 engine with Variable Valve Timing- intelligent (VVT-i) Exceptionally rigid body structure, double wishbone front and rear suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels and 245/40 ZR 18 run-flat tyres create optimum handling Safety enhanced by high structural integrity, plus ABS, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TRC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Brake Assist (BA), Tyre Pressure Warning System (TPWS) and SRS airbags 2001 supply of 250 cars already sold out On sale from July, priced at £50,850 on the road High standard specification including DVD Lexus Navigator System, high power nine speaker Mark Levinson Hi-Fi and special run-flat tyres 0-62mph acceleration in 6.4 seconds, maximum speed limited at 155mph Low combined fuel consumption of 23.5 mpg, CO2 emissions 287g/km Short Story The new Lexus SC430, the first-ever convertible model from the marque, made its European debut at the 2001 Geneva Motor Show in March and will be on sale in the UK in July. The new ‘Jewel of Lexus’ and the flagship of the Lexus range, was designed from the outset to be the world’s finest all-round luxury convertible, with an integrated all-metal retractable roof offering the ‘best of both worlds’. The SC430 combines open-air driving pleasure with Lexus standards of comfort and refinement and is already, before its public launch, a sell-out success in the UK until well into 2002. Sales volume for this year is 250 cars. The SC430 combines the highest levels of performance and world-leading refinement and efficiency from its 282bhp, 4.3-litre V8 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, with an elegant design and retractable hardtop that will transform it from a coupé into a convertible at the push of a button. “The Lexus brand has a status as one of the best in the world, but I wanted to create a car that would bring an even higher level of prestige to Lexus,” said Mr. Yasushi Nakagawa, Chief Engineer of the Lexus SC430. “This car would not just be an addition to the Lexus line-up, but would be the finest all-round luxury convertible. It would offer cutting-edge styling, class-leading performance, plus a full range of superior and refined equipment, such as the folding roof, designed to further heighten driving pleasure.” From Coupe to Convertible in 25 Seconds The SC430 is fitted as standard with an electrically operated fully retractable hard top that transforms the car from a sleek coupé into a convertible in less than half a minute. Operation of the roof assembly could not be simpler via a single touch of a button on the facia. A warning lamp indicates that the roof is being activated and a buzzer sounds to indicate the start and end of roof operation. Safety is ensured as the hard top will only operate for as long as the button is depressed, the roof will automatically stop if the driver’s hand is removed from the switch. There are nine points in the roof opening sequence: Fully closed. Driver activates Hardtop Control Switch Luggage compartment front is unlocked and the side windows automatically open The front of the boot lid opens Roof begins to lift and fold rearwards Package tray behind seats opens Roof folds into storage compartment Package tray folds back into place leaving clean appearance Boot lid closes Roof open. Occupants enjoy the sunshine On the move with the roof down, the SC430 continues to maintain the customary standards of Lexus refinement and comfort, thanks to the use of computer generated ‘wind wrap’ analysis to carefully control the airflow in and around the passenger compartment. A deflector fitted between the rear seat headrests helps control the airflow and ensures comfort at high speeds by minimising airflow or buffeting around the occupants’ head and shoulder area. In addition to the manufacturer’s own wind tunnel, The Maibara wind tunnel, used for the development of the Shinkansen Bullet Train was utilised because of its very low background noise. This enabled Lexus to concentrate on the reduction of wind noise as much as possible. This special wind tunnel was also used during the development of the LS430 introduced last year. Careful tuning has also been applied to the underside aerodynamics of the SC430 by installing specially shaped covers at various sections of the floor pan. These covers reduce lift, add to high speed stability and contribute to the resulting low CD figure of just 0.29 with the hard top in its closed position. Superior Styling Lexus designers from Europe and Japan worked together to create the design of the impressive coupé shape at the Europe Design studio (ED2) in Marseilles. This design studio and stylish surroundings of the French Riviera gave inspiration for the creation of the avant-garde exterior and the sophisticated interior styling of the SC430. For the interior, moulded plastics were rejected in favour of natural materials such as wood and leather. As with the exterior styling, the design team sought expertise from outside the automobile industry to learn more about craftmanship. This included spending time with the Yamaha musical instrument factory to learn more about their special timber moulding techniques, used in forming pianos and guitars. Perfect Interior Climate, Roof up or Down The Lexus SC430 features one of the world’s most advanced climate control systems that allows occupants to enjoy more top-down driving than conventional convertibles. The system automatically adjusts airflow and temperature, differentiating between top-up or top-down driving needs. When driving with the roof down in low outside temperatures, special air ducts in the centre console direct warm air into the lower section of the passenger compartment. When driving with the top down on warm days, the system regulates fan speed and temperature accordingly depending on the road speed of the car. A solar correction sensor is also fitted, close to the windscreen, which measures the sun’s heat and adjusts the cabin temperature accordingly. Class Leading Performance The SC430 shares the same engine as GS430 and LS430, a 282 bhp 4.3-litre V8 engine with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) that provides effortless overtaking power with its 419Nm of torque at just 3,500rpm. This engine meets the step IV emissions requirements of 2005 and will return a combined fuel consumption figure of 23.5mpg. The SC430 uses a five speed, intelligent automatic gearbox with Artificial Intelligence shift control that can adapt to road type (winding, up, down) and also the driver’s style. Trips to the Lexus Service Centre – or Lack of Them The SC430 will require a full service only every 20,000 miles and will require a health check, taking less than an hour to complete, every 10,000 miles or once a year. Special iridium-tipped spark plugs are fitted that only require replacement every 60,000 miles and the timing belt will require replacement only every 90,000 miles. Run-Flat Tyres The SC430 is fitted as standard with run-flat tyres that enable the car to be driven with a puncture for up to 100 miles at speeds of up to 55mph. These tyres have reinforced side-walls that are able to support the weight of the vehicle without any pressure left in the tyre. This of course alleviates the need for a spare which frees up more space for luggage. The run-flat tyre also provides added safety as roadside tyre changes are no longer necessary. Early warning of a loss of pressure in a tyre is also detected much earlier thanks to the Tyre Pressure Warning System (TPWS) also fitted as standard equipment. Standard Specification The SC430 features a very high level of standard equipment including full leather interior, wood and leather steering wheel, electrically operated driver and passenger seats with heating and memory function, nine speaker Mark Levinson Hi-Fi system, DVD touch screen Lexus Navigator System and six CD in-dash autochanger. Prospective purchasers of the Lexus SC430 may also have other premium brand models on their shortlist such as Mercedes SL500, Jaguar XK8 convertible and Porsche 911 cabriolet; all of which are more expensive by at least £4,500. The SC430 has many standard equipment features that are not offered, even as an option, by its competitors. Features such as tyre pressure warning, DVD navigation, Mark Levinson Hi-Fi and electrically-retractable hard top are unique to SC430. To specify GPS navigation on the Mercedes or Jaguar would cost around £2,000 more and 18-inch alloy wheels are only available as standard on the Jaguar XKR V8 convertible. The SC430 is the only car in this class to offer run-flat tyres as standard equipment. The DVD Lexus Navigator on SC430 allows for up to 13 times the amount of information to be stored as on a conventional CD driven navigation system. To specify a Mercedes SL500 at £65,340 to a level close to the SC430 without its unique features would cost £4,740 more and the Jaguar XK8 convertible at £55,350 would cost £8,650 more. The high level of standard equipment on SC430 proves once again that Lexus is the intelligent choice, whichever car from the now five model range is chosen.

Very good looking example of the SC. and having had an extensive look over it (thank you Neil), I would be of the opinion it is worth every penny .

Definitely and curiously very few people caught on to just how good the earlier model Soarer was despite Clarkson's favourable review of it.

Thanks for the response. We have a Renault Zoe for driving into London and that will be used as a bollard.

.......but you are a rockstar .....in the classic car show world at least.😁 I've watched lots of Kelvin's youtube content. He really knows his stuff.

For sale: Tastefully modified 2001 Lexus SC430 with a package of spares. Extensive build diary from previous owner documented within the club forum. Registration plate – MC51 NFO Colour - Silver 4.3 V8 (3uz-fe) Registered 7 Dec 2001 Mileage - 82303 Item Condition: Very good condition with minimal age related marks. Price and price conditions: £8950 Including comprehensive spares package as described below. Extra Info: Bought September 19th 2023 from the owner of “Landbeasts cars” and only covered 686 miles since purchase. Images and purchase details are available via Landbeasts Facebook page. I purchased to use as a weekend summer use car to cherish and became a tad obsessed with the SC430 history, build quality, features and looks. Despite my best intentions and ambition to use the car over the summer I also have a BBR converted Mazda MX5 Turbo and cannot justify keeping everything going at the same time!. After receiving sensible but hard to hear advice from my other half here I am. The car is also the feature photo on the front page of the Lexus SC430 Club UK on Facebook. The car has a number of desirable and quality accessories installed prior to my ownership including BC racing coilovers, 20” Rotiform SNA alloy wheels, stainless steel exhaust, Cusco front strut brace, HKS tri-foam air filter, stainless steel radiator panel cover, gen 2 LED rear lights, upgraded reversing sensors to the 4 sensor system with colour matched sensors (via Lexus Nottingham), front 6x9 speakers replaced with focal units, rear subwoofer replaced with Vibe slick 8” unit, 4 x new tyres fitted by Landbeasts. Active exhausts have been installed and removed prior to my purchase (The parts to reinstall are supplied with the car) As part of my OCD with cars I commenced gathering essential parts via the Lexus owners UK club that in the unlikely event of failure I would have access to. Despite obtaining the original pie dish alloy wheels as spares I also purchased a further set of SC430 5 spoke alloys with tyres to use in the event of wanting to remove the unique Rotiform SNA 20 inch wheels. During research I also liked the look and safety of the rare and optional space saver tyre conversion kit. This kit is not manufactured anymore and not available to purchase in the UK. After a considerable amount of time searching I found an overseas dealer that could provide the kit. I had to wait over 4 months for delivery of parts from various countries and at a cost in excess of £500 but in my opinion the end result was worth the wait and expense. The car has been garaged during my brief ownership. I traced the fastidious previous owner prior to Landbeasts who provided a detailed and fascinating insight into the history of the car. There is a comprehensive detailed build diary from the previous owner on the Lexus owners club website revealing the scale and scope of works completed in creating how the car is today. I have been told that this car was ordered at the 2001 Geneva motor show and was part of the original 256 produced in the first year of manufacture, it also had the optional 24K gold styling pack fitted. As the images show, the car has had a number of modifications to create it’s current looks and stance. The car has been maintained and improved throughout it’s life to a very high standard and as a car enthusiast, it met my expectations! Full service history is a combination of Lexus and specialists with Landbeasts completing a service prior to my purchase in September. Last serviced September 2023 year by Landbeasts prior to my purchase. MOT – Due 17 September 2024 – No advisories. New coilpacks installed by Landbeasts Paintwork has been subject to a stage 2 machine polish and ceramic coated at some point including headlight correction. The underside of the car has been treated with Dinitrol at some point. Bodywork and interior can only be described as very good condition with the odd age related marks due to age and use. I have since purchased a Lexus first aid kit, Lexus bag to carry service items and a Lexus touch up paintwork kit to store in the boot. Hopefully the images show the condition and looks of the car. 3 x sets of keys. The following parts have been purchased by myself and will come with the car as a package if full asking price is met. · Original full set of pie dish alloy wheels · Full set of 5 spoke SC430 alloy wheels with tyres · New - SC430 MODS Bluetooth hands free module (not installed) · New – OEM set of 24ct Gold coloured badges · New – OEM chrome fog light surrounds · New – OEM chrome grill surround - New - OEM chrome bonnet trim · Used - Climate control unit · Used - Stereo unit · Used - Amplifier · Used – Subwoofer · Used – High level door speakers · Used – Centre console including rear compartment · Used – Door cards · Used – Rear seats · Used – Rear headrests · Used – Gear knob · Used – Steering wheel · Used – Cup holder · Used – 2 x front grills · Used – Ashtray and walnut cover · Used – 2 x Sets of rear lights · Used - 2 x Sets of wing mirrors (1 has a slight crack in the mounting plate) · Used – Boot mat (non - space saver) · Used – Tool kit boot tray · Used – Sat nav unit (the motor powering the walnut cover does not work but sat nav screen is like new) · Used – Active exhaust Overall, a beautiful and stunning looking SC430 with a detailed and interesting documented history. Hard to justify not using such a vehicle. Pictures: 20240419_133341.mp4 Contact Details: 07508822448 or neilstorey63@gmail.com Location: Lancashire Delivery & Conditions of Delivery: Collection only

Don't know - FWD is dealbreaker for me. Even for cars that are not sports cars and maybe don't have that much more power RWD drives much better.

So far, mine has been fine, unlike various cars I have had before. I am a new owner myself though, so don't have much ownership experience to rely on. I know mine lasts at least 2 weeks, and I get the impression it would last much longer without any issues, though hopefully it won't be parked up so much in future to test this out. This being said, if I were going on hols for 2 weeks with the car on the drive, I might be tempted to disconnect the battery for security reasons!

Hi. Please feel free to give us a try for insurance if you haven't done so already. Regards, Dan.

European ports are completely full with Chinese EVs. Hamburg, Zeebrugge, Antwerp, Rotterdam and so on. Previously cars were unloaded and then disappeared to the end customers mostly through dealers. The Chinese have a different approach they just use those ports as storage area. Some cars have been there for 1.5 yrs. Chinese manufacturers get paid per car by the Chinese government so keep producing my friends happy days and who cares if nobody buys them ?! Demand for 2nd hand ones is very low out of consumer fear. What are you buying? what is the state of the battery? High electricity prices make EVs as expensive as petrolcars? In most countries you pay roadtax based on weight and that is much higher with a battery? How about value will they continue depreciating like crazy? From the model you are interested in for sure there will be newer versions withmore range faster charging so why buy this one? In short there are too many uncertainties for private buyers. Like before the market is driven by companycars only.

Hi. Please feel free to give us a try for insurance if you haven't done so already. Regards, Dan.

I’m never an expert but YouTube has been very helpful from time to time 😉

You know when you feel a dinosaur? When your five year old grandson can operate the satnav better and faster then yourself ( without any form of explanation whatsoever) !!!

Uncle Bob is our expert in Kent. In NZ for all things UZ there is Kelvin of the Car Tune Company. He doesn't have the same rockstar image as Bob but his vids are very good. Follow Kelvin

Thanks everyone for your replies. Think I’ll just charge the battery directly via my AA battery charger, for now. My solar panels are probably not powerful enough in any event.

Brake backplate can rub on the inside of the disc, probably needs a little grind off on the back plate lip.

I ordered a new scuff plate for the drivers side as it had a few noticeable dents & scuffs on it, got the new one in the mail today & fitted it. If I can ever get the alloys refurbished, Ill have a good looking 9 year old car!

Would need to be partially dismantle to see the timing marks on crankshaft and camshafts. Sadly that’s the job over half done . This was my first SC that I done the belt on….turns out it had already been replaced 🙄

I checked this with my local dealer and was told that the NX has a fuel reserve of 8.5 litres, so when the fuel gauge reads empty, there's apparently still 8.5 litres left. What I've found confusing is the range indicator, but I'm told that this is the range until the fuel gauge reads zero. My fill ups on a long run seem to support the reserve size stated and the range indicator.

My oil light use to come on in between services …but only as I pulled into my driveway…. Long steep driveway 😜 …. I now make a point of adding a litre or more in between services