Used 1997 Lexus LS 400 Sedan Consumer Reviews
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My First Lexus, I Had No Idea
rickster81, 12/31/2003
1997 Lexus LS 400 Coach 4dr Sedan
14 of 14 people found this review helpful
I wasn't really looking at the LS400 when searching for another used car after a major car accident where my 97 Camry was crushed. But after one test drive, I knew the LS400 was it. Being only 29 years old, my wife still chides me that I'm driving an 'old man' car. But the fact of the matter is, the LS400 is a feature rich luxury machine that was affordable for me and at the same time offered some prestige with a long list of standard features. I hope to drive this car up to 250K miles and then i'll be another Lexus... why pay for a Benz when you get all that luxury and comfort in a Lexus for half the price?
Well Built Car, Never broken down, Reliable.
happy59, 06/07/2012
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
Purchased car in January of 2011 for $3800. It is very reliable. If you don't want to worry about being stranded or expensive repairs, this car is for you. You must be ready to pay for premium fuel but other than that it is a great car. Better to buy used than new and better to buy used from a rich person than from a poor person. Good luck.
All I have to say is WOW!!!!!
deezeer55, 12/18/2012
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
This car is absolutely amazing. I have owned it since 2003 and the most major problem we ever had was replacing the fuel pump ($350). We got it with 25k miles and now it has 125k. We also have a 2010 TL and I still love driving my classic around. The LS is sooo smooth and so comfortable that I havent drove many like it. She still runs like a beast and I hope she runs for years to come. Really a great and reliable car. Thanks Lexus!!!
own one of the best cars in the world
ondro1977, 05/18/2011
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
16 of 19 people found this review helpful
I purchased My 1997 Lexus LS400 with 150 000miles for 4000,-$ in February 2011. But I can assure you, that this car is more reliable than any German car of those years or newer. Sure '97 BMW 740,is more powerful and is a bit more fun to drive and MB-S430 is more luxurious and even a bit more spacious, but in overall performance/reliability/luxury.... this car outperform any of them by a long shot. Previous owners did not took care of it properly and didn't use premium fuel and use some shady trans fluid, but car is still awesome. Do yourself a favor and change transmission filter ,gasket and toyota t-IV ATF. keep your regular oil change and always use premium fuel.
TOP WORK/FAMILY CAR VALUE
Phil57, 12/03/2004
1997 Lexus LS 400 Coach 4dr Sedan
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
For reliability, performance, comfort, impressing clients and safe transportation for children (son & buddies are now 7) my 97 LS 400 is unsurpassed in value and stress-free driving despite the premium you pay for driving and servicing the best car on the road. I purchased it used for $35K with 45,000 miles, qualified for a new car 5 year loan with my insurance company, now has 97,000 miles, would not hesitate to buy a used 97 model. Expect typical parts turnover as car ages, my experience so far is 1) new starter $1,600; 2) replacement valve for power steering $1,000. Lexus service is excellent, expensive, you get another Lexus for loaner, worth every penny!
Just Passed 200,000 miles
James, 04/26/2007
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
My car is still running like a true champ. Most people are amazed that I have 200,000+ miles and my car still looks great and performs awesomely. I don't think I will have any problems reaching 250,000 miles; my goal is 300,000. Lexus needs to reward long time car owners who have reached major milestones 200K, 250K and 300K+ miles.
I have 350,000 miles and it's still going
Lexus lover, 03/01/2020
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I love my 97 Lexus Ls400!It handles great,is comfortable driving on long &short rides, parts are cheap because it's a Toyota, the leather is like new for a 23 yr old car, everything works,safe with side& front airbags & handles well in all conditions with traction control.. It'll go for a long time.Btw, one can use regular gas&a gas cleaner once every two thousand miles & it'll still run new.I've had New BMWs,Jags, Range Rovers& other luxury new cars but the 97 Lexus Ls400 is the best &turns heads.. Can't go wrong with an Ls400 from 97& it's 2020!!!!!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Tuxedo Look, Limo Ride, Bulletproof Engine!
telluride1, 08/06/2014
1997 Lexus LS 400 Coach 4dr Sedan
9 of 12 people found this review helpful
I bought a 1997 Black Onyx with Black Leather, the Coach Edition with 120K that was driven about 7,000 miles a year. The Coach leather feels like a brand new leather couch and the paint has a mirror shine. It drives far better than any 2014 car we recently test drove. I plan to keep it showroom quality and drive it until it reaches 300K. While the premium gas isn't fun to buy, it's worth giving this limo quality Lexus the best fuel that money can buy since it will return to you a smooth ride and miles of enjoyment. My only regret is not buying one sooner. I was a Toyota fan but now I'm hooked on Lexus and while I'm young to be driving an LS400 it's a ride everyone is missing!
Just passed 250K Miles
James, 03/18/2010
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Well i just passed the 250K miles goal. I looked at my comments from 2007, so I am driving about 50K miles every 3 years. The car is holding up well. My air suspension failed on the front and rear in the last 18 months but those are the only real problems. It cost about $1100 each to fix but seeing that I have owned the car 13 years, that is minor, considering I have had other no major repairs. My next goal is 300K. I will write back again
The best car I've ever had
Dennis, 06/10/2006
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This must be the most well-built reliable car ever made. I've had this car for almost ten years and it drives almost as snappy as the first day I owned it. Solid it is!
closing in on 200k
mike, 03/16/2010
1997 Lexus LS 400 Coach 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
this car looks as good is it does from the day I bought it back in 2002. I must admit I don't wash it every day but I do garage it. This car runs great and is a dream to drive. One knock I have on the car is it is not a car you drive in the winter, even with the snows on. But I will put up with that because there are so many positives to this car. I have a brand new American made car and the Lexus is so more of a car than the new ones. I will be driving this car until the wheels fall off
Best Vehicle Yet
Manuel McKenzie, 04/03/2008
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I was originaly looking to purchase a Q45T Infinity when I bought this car mainly for the additional horse power and rear spoiler. However when the availability of this vehicle was brought to my attention I didn't hesitate. I was well aware of its reputation and high ratings. It has lived up to all my expectations and beyond. It has been a pleasure both to drive and own. It has been cheap to repair though, but the cost comes with driving a 10 year old Lexus.
1997 Lexus LS400
Fran Heraty, 04/06/2002
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Excellent performance. Reliable. Not costly to maintain.
Great road car
Jack, 07/16/2008
1997 Lexus LS 400 Coach 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this '97 on eBay for less than $8500 -- only had 81,000 miles at time of purchase. I've made two road trips of 1,000+ miles round trip and it is the most pleasant vehicle I've ever driven. Smooth ride, comfortable seats (seats same leather as Coach purses). Didn't realize it required premium fuel until after purchasing it, but it gets 25+ on the road. I plan to drive it at least 9 or 10 years.
Excellent Value - Great Car
JayNRocky, 09/22/2008
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had my LS 400 for 11 years and it runs like the day I bought it. I have 172,000 miles and it still runs strong. When my Mercedes was totalled in 2006, I was back to driving my old LS 400 full time. I was planning to sell it and buy another car, but I was so impressed how it still drives, that I just decided to clean it up and keep it. Don't be cheap about maintenance. I do all service at the dealer, and have no problems. It passes smog tests with flying colors and the gas mileage is not bad for a car this size. I plan to keep this car for as long as i can!
Best car bar none
Phil57, 05/11/2002
1997 Lexus LS 400 Coach 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is a joy to drive. I have owned it for 18 months and I look forward to using it every day, whether for work or with the family. I have a stressful job in real estate, with lots of stop and go driving to visit properties. The Lexus' smooth performance and luxurious interior are very relaxing and don't intrude on my workday. The entire car is well thought out, simple to operate, performs excellently and is rock solid reliable. I cannot imagine owning another car.
A Legend...
LS 400 , 04/30/2009
1997 Lexus LS 400 Coach 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car from my brother 3 years ago. It's got 200k miles and every time I put it on the highway, it has already paid for itself. I got 500miles from a full tank! This car is classic. I only hate I didn't get a 99 with the xenon headlights. Still is so quiet and smooth you think it's not even running. Someone is constantly trying to buy it from me. I can't wait to try the LS430 or LS460l
Very satisfied
chulent, 06/09/2002
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Little or nothing has gone wrong with this car. I am not used to such reliability in a used car. I find parts to be available and reasonable.The fuel mileage on the highway is great (25 MPG). I smile with joy every time I think the prior owner paid of 50,000 dollars for my car, I paid under 20,000 I have heard of, and actually met owners with 150 to 200,000 miles on thier LS 400'S, I find this amazing. The engine is so smooth and quiet you cannot feel or hear that it is running. The Nakamichi radio is so clear, and plays so nice I sometimes sit in the car in my driveway for extra time after arriving home just listen to music.
Second LS400-Best 4dr on the road
ptdulac, 11/03/2002
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Don't be afraid of puchasing a used Lexus. This is the second one I've bought and have been extremely satisfied with both. There is no better build car on the road for the money.
First One
Theodore, 12/24/2002
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is everything I expected. It has gave me 50,000 miles of trouble free driving. I wish I could find a reason to get a new one but this one is still like new @ 60,000 miles. The Japanese are hard to beat when it comes to quality.
longevity
smitty123, 09/15/2003
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have just seen my odometer pass the 150K mark and I have had no problems to date. My goal is to make it to 250K miles before I even think of getting a another car. I bought the car as a certified used car and it was the best move I could make. I got the car in jan. 1998 and can't figure out why the orignal owner turned it in. My only wish is that the cell phone included in the car could be switched out for a new model.
Recent Purchase
Cross Creek Dave, 01/30/2004
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have found no flaws with this car. I would say that Predictable describes the LS 400 best. It rides good, good mileage on a trip. No squeaks and rattles! It can be serviced at Wal- mart for $35 using synthetic oil.
LS400
Anetha, 04/30/2004
1997 Lexus LS 400 Coach 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned several fancy cars and this is the second Lexus I have owned and I have loved both of them. The first was a GS300 and it was wonderful. A little smaller then the LS 400 but still a great car to drive. I will continue to drive them. Couldn't ask for a more great looking and driving car.
Nicest 8-yr old car you can buy
NC girl, 10/31/2004
1997 Lexus LS 400 Coach 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this car for the wife to drive for errands/soccer carpools (Her other car is a Jaguar XJS convertible). LS rides quietly & smoothly, absorbing every bump and curve. The quality stands out in this car, surpassing other models of vehicles several years newer. Paint is perfect, leather comfy, stereo crisp. It is apparent this car will go another 10 years if maintained. Consider this car over a 2-3 yr old Camry/Accord for the $ any day.
the best
treology, 01/11/2006
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is the best car I have ever owned in my life. Very affordable in this year. I would definitely choose this car over buying a brand car of any type. I have 130,000 miles and I now have a power steering pump go out but once that's fixed it won't need replacing for another 100,000 miles. This car makes a lot of people jealous, if they only knew how much I paid for it. These cars will last forever. Own a LS 400 and you will be completely happy with this choice. Good luck
Best car I have ever owned
k.cruikshank, 06/30/2003
1997 Lexus LS 400 Coach 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Best car I have ever owned! I have owned a Lincoln, Mercedes, Cadillac and they do not compare to the Lexus.
I have 350,000 miles and it's still going
Lexus lover, 03/01/2020
updated 03/04/2021
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my 97 Lexus Ls400!It handles great,is comfortable driving on long &short rides, parts are cheap because it's a Toyota, the leather is like new for a 23 yr old car, everything works,safe with side& front airbags & handles well in all conditions with traction control.. It'll go for a long time.Btw, one can use regular gas&a gas cleaner once every two thousand miles & it'll still run new.I've had New BMWs,Jags, Range Rovers& other luxury new cars but the 97 Lexus Ls400 is the best &turns heads.. Can't go wrong with an Ls400 from 97& it's 2020!!!!!
The LS 400 is the smartest used car buy.
Ben LaMere, 04/19/2005
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have owned a lot of vehicles, but this vehicle is one of the finest machines ever built. The ultra smooth motor and trans., the unmatched suspension, tight lack of rattles and almost no wind noise until you hit 100 mph, the engine is just barely past 3000 rpms at this speed and the car just cruises like that is a normal everyday speed. This is automotive excellence at it's finest. At this point in the life of the car, its depreciation almost levels off compared to most cars in this category, that lose 3-6000 in value annually, look at the prices for 94, 95, 96 they are very close. So when reselling you still have some money left. You will not regret the purchase of this car
Excellent big boy V
Mr Flexus, 06/08/2017
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is Japan's flagship car made to compete with Benz and BMW. It really is all out luxury. Take care if it and it will take care of you.
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- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Disappointing
Phil57, 11/17/2017
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
2 of 8 people found this review helpful
UPDATE. Sold the car in 2006 for $6,000 at dealer's auction with 120,000 miles, since 2004 review 1) crack opened up on top of dashboard; 2) electrical components in dashboard failed interior remittently, needing complete replacement eventually per Lexus dealer; 3) scraped drivers door on garage pillar, requiring $1,500 repairs and replacement of metal wainscoting, which being shiny new did not match the weathered texture on the other 3 doors and stood out like a sore thumb. Replacement on the other doors would have cost another $2,000 est. Very costly car, did not hold up as expected. Originally purchased from auto broker with 45,000 miles for $35,000. I expected car tp hold up better.
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Waste of money
buckmarley, 10/17/2014
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
1 of 6 people found this review helpful
Brought mine and one week later needed o2 sensors.then one month later brakes all the way around.two days later the trams went out.today I realized I needed motor mounts and I have developed a oil leak.i have spent 3000 and only had it 3 months and driven it maybe 30 times
12 years old Original Owner
CharlotteRealtor.com, 12/31/2008
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My car is a true champ. I have not had any problems with it and the dealer at the last service said that it was in great shape and will last another several years. My goal is to keep it until I reach at least 300,000 miles
plus excellent service
Mr Neophyte, 04/21/2003
1997 Lexus LS 400 Coach 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle gives a very quite smooth ride
first but not last Lexus!
ReverendJohn, 05/24/2003
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love the peace, quiet and serenity I feel every time I get in this car. The safety features are great. I feel like I could drive around the world in it and arrive feeling refreshed. It's six years old now, and as good as the day I got it. No problems at all.
very happy lady
lexusgirl01, 07/10/2011
1997 Lexus LS 400 Coach 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
ok this is something very diffrent than i have ever have. I love how my car rides I just bought it a day ago I have been reading the reviews and been very pleased with what I have read. Anything i need to know please feel free to share with me, enjoy reading your commets.
good work transportation
Brian Nichols, 06/06/2016
1997 Lexus LS 400 4dr Sedan
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
Reliable
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value