Skip to main content

Used 1999 Lexus GS 300 Consumer Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
42 reviews

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

Price history graph example

Trending topics in reviews

Pros
Cons
5 out of 5 stars

Most reliable car ever owned

Keith, 12/02/2015
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
21 of 21 people found this review helpful

Now that my GS300 has reached 240,000 miles I think I have full picture of this car. I bought the car ten years ago from dealer's trade-in lot with 100,000 miles on it. No problem on engine and transmission and haven't had check engine light on. Acceleration is great and thanks to rear wheel drive handling is also great, not as great as BMW but lot better than ES series. Did not have many problems but here are the trouble spots: 1. Had to change starter twice, and it's hard to DIY as it's it a tight spot; 2. Radio LCD went out around 200,000 miles; 3. Engine valve gaskets leaked around 180,000 miles but not a bad DIY; 4. Master gasket (between engine block and transmission) leaking, one bottle of Lucas Stop Leak will work; 5. Exhaust shield start rattling, but not affecting anything. All in all it's a great luxury car with good MPG (23ish).

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse

5 out of 5 stars

Best car I've ever owned

lukas25, 03/30/2014
updated 03/30/2016
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
13 of 13 people found this review helpful

Bought this car with 178k, now at 200k and still looks and drives like a new car, people constantly think it's 2006 or so, paint and leather quality has really impressed me, nothing has signs of wear and every little thing works, I've seen people who own these with well over 300k so I am not worried, I am sold on Lexus due to the reliability of this car Update: sold the car with 230k and I never had a single problem with the car, upgraded to a 08 gs460. Loved that car!

Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Excellent Used Car

k_cubed, 10/29/2010
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
11 of 11 people found this review helpful

I bought it at 94,000 in 2009 and I've driven it for a year now for both local driving and couple of road trips. It is an excellent car for all purpose and is incredibly comfortable. Brakes are something to get used to and the gas mileage isn't great. I've taken it to Lexus dealer for maintenance every 5,000 miles (which is quite costly) and I haven't had to do anything else. I'm definitely hooked on Lexus now.

Report Abuse

5 out of 5 stars

AWESOME MACHINE

Keith., 03/15/2016
updated 09/18/2017
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

Overpriced because it is still a Toyota but definitely money well spent. I paid $21,000 with 42,000 miles on the odometer in 2003, it now has 0ver 280,000 miles after changing the timing belt every 90,000 miles and still runs like a dream.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse

4.88 out of 5 stars

What's Not to Like?

madmax106, 05/02/2003
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

Bought my GS used in 2001 after years of drooling. I still get excited every time I get behind the wheel. The styling is truly timeless; the profile is awesome. Performance-wise it is all the car I need and more. I love to kick it and hear the engine spool. Quiet as a tomb on the highway. Lexus service is unbeatable. Customer for life.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Love this car!

Pick, 03/18/2002
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

This is the second GS 300 I have had, and it only gets better. I love driving the car, it has lots of performance, a nice ride, and it looks great.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Love my 1999 Lexus gs300

gerald williams, 05/05/2016
updated 11/07/2016
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Bought this car used in 2008 with 42,000 miles on it. Changed the timing belt at 90,000 miles and replaced a couple of exterior light bulbs. Thats's it. Just routine maintenance beyond that; oil changes, oil filter, etc. The car is very comfortable for long trips. Acceleration is good. Audio system is good. Nice body styling. I don't have a single complaint about this car. One of the best that I have ever owned. I also owned a 1990 Lexus ls-400 and now own a 2000 Lexus LX-470. Each of them have been great, reliable vehicles. UPDATED 11/5/2016 Still love this car. Replaced the starter, but other than that, it just keeps on going.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Lexus GS300

evh, 03/10/2002
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

This is my second Lexus and I have been very happy with it. I am adding this review because I couldn't stand seeing it only at a 5! My car is reliable, fun to drive, and a head turner. I will definitely be buying my next car from the Lexus family.

Report Abuse
3.75 out of 5 stars

A love hate relationship

billbroom, 03/22/2008
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
4 of 5 people found this review helpful

Bought it new and have had a love hate relationship since. Overall quality is very good, but performance stinks. Sporadic shifting pattern, especially after slowing and making 90 degree turn, then accelerating again will drive you nuts. Also, shifting pattern in stop and go urban traffic will drive you even nuttier. computer and ESC don't have a clue how to respond. Recall/upgrade of ESC was done in 1999, but really didn't fix the problem. Dealer acknowledges this as an engineering problem typical to the car - big, unforgivable mistake for a car in this price range

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Great Car - Highly Recommended

ATL King, 07/20/2008
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I have owned this car for about 6 years. It had 47k mile when I bought it. I drive this car very hard and I have 164k mile on it. I know this is crazy but I have never replaced the timing belt (not recommended). I have had to replace the O2 sensors but that is about it for repairs. It has a good ride, smooth transmission, and good pick up (especially in PWR mode). This is the best car I have owned.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Love It!

SandyD, 10/09/2008
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I drove this car new off the showroom floor in 1998 and have loved every minute spent driving it! It's NEVER has a mechanical problem and it's driven every day. It's comfortable, fun to drive, and extremely reliable. The quality of the fit and finish is hard to beat and I can't think of any car on the road today that can beat it for the price. It was a lot of money for us to spend back then but worth every penny! If Lexus made a non-SUV that could hold 6 people, I'd buy that too.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Best car I have ever owned

SF_ftbl, 12/01/2009
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I bought it with 2K miles. The feature that hooked me and I still use to this day is the button to roll down all the windows and open the sun roof from outside the car (comes in handy on those very HOT days). The car now has over 120K miles and all I have had to replace was a timing belt (100K) and a starter. A few years back I started looking for a replacement but could not find anything I liked so my wife let me "PIMP" the ride. I added a really cool kit to it and had the outside repainted the same Zinnabar Pearl. Added Halo headlights and a chrome grill. No one can believe it is a 99'. It is a head turner, but I know I will have to sell it one day.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Life time Lexus

Orlando, 08/21/2010
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I also purchased a 1999 GS300 at an Orlando car auction in 1999. the car had 1600 miles and was 3 months old. Eleven years later it has 68,760 on odometer and I still love how it handles. However the earlier post was correct (The car lurches when you first press on the gas. It is hard to start off smoothly) Have learned to press pedal easy when starting off.

Report Abuse
4.13 out of 5 stars

One of the Best

automaniac9, 05/14/2014
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

After driving this car for a week straight, I have to say that I believe it is one of best cars on the used car market. Its got great style, not too bold, but not too understated either. The engine is a work of art; only making 225 hp, and yet it feels like so much more. The transmission shifts perfectly and is barely noticable. The handling is not the best I've driven, but is still great. The steering is amazing in both feel and weight. However, none of this compares to the interior. It is simple yet very functional, and everything is in great reach from the drivers seat. The seats are a little firm, but offer great lateral support. Finally, this being a Lexus, it will last a long time.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

1999 Lexus GS300

Lupita, 04/20/2004
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

This is the best car I have ever driven. Just under 100,000 miles and never anything above normal maintenance. It still drives like a new car, no rattles, no starting problems, nothing. I plan to drive it another 100,000.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Top Quality

AcworthGS, 11/07/2004
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I purchased this car used with 25K miles. It now has 65K miles and still feels as strong as when I got it. I had an issue with my speaker after 50K miles. Lexus fixed it for free. Other than that, nothing. Nothing! I only wish I bought the 400 model.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

BEST of the BEST

Jarrett, 11/13/2004
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

My wife was bugging me to find her a Lexus! She was wanting a the RX300/330 and I was wanting a GS300. Well, I won that battle and purchased a 1999 GS300, Cinnabon Pearl (RED) with 24k miles. Nearly 5 years old with that low of miles. I can't tell you enough of how much we like this car. It is smooth, quiet, peppy and a load of fun to drive. She is really happy with the car and glad we (I) chose this model over the RX300/330. Lexus has scored an A+ with this car. I plan on keeping and driving it many more years! I have a 1998 Ford Explorer and when time comes for it to be put to sleep, I plan on looking to get my own GS300, or may a GS400. My wife can't appreciate the V8's power!

Report Abuse
4.5 out of 5 stars

Nice commuting car

gasman, 04/06/2003
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

In the past three years I've put about 75000 miles on the car. Basic service but no real repairs needed yet. Excellent highway commuting car. The V- 6 has plenty of power with respect to the handling characteristics of the car. The car gets sort of soft when pushed hard. If you live in areas where snow occurs you WILL need winter tires. A very comfortable car to drive. Driver fatigue minimal. This car has grown on me over time and I continue to be more impressed.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Hard Act To Follow

JohnK, 07/12/2007
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Bad news for anyone looking to buy a 1999 GS 300, you can NOT have mine! I have spent over two years looking at possible replacements but know I won't be happy with anything else. Also, once you have been to a Lexus dealer for service, all of the others are second class. We bought the car pre-owned, commuted in it 60 miles/day (Washington DC) for 4 years and at 115K miles it still seems new inside and out. Interior materials are first rate especially the wood.

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

Can't buy new? Certified is A-OK

Bijou, 07/22/2007
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

It is a great car. The higher price is worth it in the long run because it saves in repairs. I've had no problems since I bought it in 2001.

Report Abuse
3.88 out of 5 stars

My GS

vusford1, 09/29/2007
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

My Lexus GS 300 is by far the must durable automobile I have ever owned. While this has come to be expected from Lexus, I am still impressed with its reliability. However, the rest of the car is not perfect, as acceleration is just as mediocre as when I bought it in 99, and the interior is not particularly roomy. The car does handle decently well, however, but don't expect a canyon-carver, like a 5-series.

Report Abuse
3.5 out of 5 stars

Personal genuine ratings of Lexus GS300

Galant , 10/12/2009
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

In general terms I'm very happy with this car and it's a great long distance tourer. By far the greatest quality of this vehicle has to be the beautifully smooth, quick well made, and durable engine. In short I have driven many thousands of happy motoring miles in it and it has proved to be the most reliable car I've owned up to date.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Car! A lot better than Expected

Cally, 04/10/2002
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This is a great car! It has greatly exceeded my expectations. I bout a pre- owned GS 300 with 36K miles. The balance between performance and luxury is just right! On top of that you have lexus service and reliability I drove the car at 90mph and it felt rock solid! It has the right balance for both everyday and highway driving. I'm anxious to take my first long trip.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Car

Great Car, 08/16/2008
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought this car with 47k miles. I just recently had are crashed in an accident with 165k miles. Total loss. This is a great car. Rides smooth and handle well for a large car. I would highly recommend this car. Never had any major problems and I only change the oil. Never even changed timing belt (not recommended).

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

An excellent car that turns heads!

clyde, 05/09/2002
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This is my second GS300 - improvements galore from earlier model! Sleek, excellent performance, quiet ride, takes off like a rocket! Had to get another radio (display failed) under warranty. Otherwise, your family members will envy you!!

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

My second used Lexus - good as the first

Yonze, 01/24/2009
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Have owned a '92 ES 300 for about six years and I still have it. My 99 GS is just as impressive and it gets almost the same mileage on a long trip. There's a lot to be said for a used Lexus from the dealer. Same quality, same service, at a fraction of the price. Lousy in the snow, though.

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

Just bought a 10 year old GS

jlmg, 02/07/2009
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I found a very good deal on my GS300. 10 years old and only 64,000. Hard to believe it is 10 years old. Everything is still tight with no creaks or rattles. Fun to drive and very reliable so far.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Love It! Best Car (for me) Ever!

Bruce O, 08/10/2002
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

As a few others have said, and I will say again this is the BEST car when it comes to combining luxury and performance, what a real treat to drive. I read one of these reviews that said it hesitated on starting out, in three years, I've NEVER had a problem. In fact, I feel safe knowing I have all of the power of the GS300 with me! One thing, watch out for the Lexus service Depts, they tend to charge everyone as if we make $300,000 a year.... I LOVE my GS 300....even after 3 years.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Return trip on business

eaglesfan, 11/02/2002
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I drove my business partner's 99 gs300 back from atrip we took together to Maryland about 200 miles away. He was under the weather and asked me to drive. I was very impressed with the power of this six cylinder and while this was primarily highway driving and not as demanding as some windy back roads-handling was solid. Goes 0-60 very quick and 60-80 mph in the blink of an eye. This vehicle represents build quality Lexus is famous for providing. I probably will buy a used gs300 or gs 400 very soon.

Report Abuse
4.13 out of 5 stars

Lexus 4 years and Running

David-Lexus 99, 02/07/2003
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Overall good car. Had to replace battery at 36,000 miles and the front caliper at 51,000 miles.Had the front seat redied at 33,000.They were looking kinda worn. The transmission kinda acts weird on these models when they are cold. But have had no problems with it. I have had it in on all factory visits and the dealership has done the work.

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

Great car!!

Vanjef, 09/09/2003
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I purchased this car used about 6 mos. ago with 36k miles on it and so far have been very happy with it. I could've gotten a BMW 5series at same price point but really wanted a reliable car and one that wouldn't be costly to fix when compared to the other luxury cars. The quality of the car feels very good even...much better than my friends Acura 3.5 Also like that you can set different climate control temperatures for the driver and passenger.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Lexus for life

gsdrvr, 08/20/2003
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

My wife and I have had this car for 4 1/2 years, putting 81000 miles on it. Everytime someone new gets in, they are amazed it is a 99. We only take the car in for its routine service. We have had the battery go out twice, but the Texas heat is hard on batteries. The dealership replaced it both times, no questions asked, even when the car was out of warranty. Lexus service is outstanding. GPS is a must have, and extremely easy to use.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Car!

Bruin, 12/31/2003
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I have owned this car for just over 3 years. It has been a great car. It is very reliable and fun to drive. With just an occasional waxing, this car still looks pretty new.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

How can you not love it????

Wonderful GS, 10/28/2005
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought a 1999 GS 300 last year. Absolutely love it. No quality problems, great looks, superior reliability. Everyone who sees it says it looks like a 2005.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

GS 300

Chuckster, 03/19/2004
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Love the car. Get a lot of flats with the low pro tires. But the drive on this car is the same with 30K as it is with 65K.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Finally, i own a LexBubba

scooblover, 05/09/2004
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Well first of all, we call that model Lexus the bubble Lex, that why i call it the Lexbubba. Anyway i really do love my Lex, it is the best car i ever owned, but it does make a little noise in the back when i pull off....other than that it is very powerful....it's Lexus from this point on for me.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Driving The best Lexus has to offer

Metro30west, 09/11/2004
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Lexus in my opinion has outdone Mercedes and BMW when it comes to quality, luxury, and overall satisfaction. Hence, JD Powers and Assoc. has presented Lexus with so many awards for the RX, GS, LS, and ES. I highly recommend a Lexus, penny for penny, there is no better vehicle to drive.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

I love all the way.

Marcus, 03/20/2021
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I love this car the best other then my 2001 Camry i love my GS300 the drive and everything the gas mileage is the best hands down. I have had alot of cars but this one is the best it was given to me happy as a dog with a new bone.😀😀😀😀

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
3.38 out of 5 stars

Shake, Rattle, and Roll

Peter Shibley, 07/09/2003
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I bought my GS 300 new in 1999. From the beginning the little irritations have driven me crazy. There is a shimmy and shake somewhere in the rear seat that comes and goes. When the wheels are properly alligned, the steering wheel shakes. there are other annoying rattles in the front dash somewhere. I finally gave up bringing these annoyances to the dealers attention as they have been unable to find or fix them. I do love the GPS feature and gas mileage around town of 19 MPH is reasonable. The seats are comfortable and the ride is fairly smooth. The car is not as quiet as I was expecting.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

gs 300/

ti, 02/12/2003
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

great car-I love it--also great car in the snow

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

One Happy Camper

blttomato, 02/20/2003
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

I dont have the time to go into detail as i squeezed in answering what i have but i will say when the economy turns i will be trading my old one for a new one!

Report Abuse
1.63 out of 5 stars

Bad Choice

Austin Hansen, 06/08/2005
1999 Lexus GS 300 4dr Sedan
0 of 7 people found this review helpful

I was excited when first buying this car, but then it was all downhill from there. The interior lack any bit of luxury. The seats are hard and uncomfortable especially with lumbar on. My kids absolutely hate the back seat beacuse there is little to no room in the back even with the front seats forward. Another thing, one sunny afternoon, I couldn't get the car to start, and I had to try three times to get it started. I say sunny because most of the time, the car won't start when it is cold or wintery weather, but this weather was fine! I have no idea why. Also, many things inside the car are not as tight as they should be. When I bought the car, the front passenger seat pocket was stretched.

Report Abuse
Items per page:
50