Used 1998 Lexus LS 400 Sedan Consumer Reviews
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I miss my Lexus!
I once told my close friends if I ever sell this car to please take me out and shoot me! I did sell it, and to my dismay, few cars could come close to the refinement, ride quality and overall durability of this fine automobile. I bought it used with 32,000 miles on the clock, it was a one owner car. I kept it for 4 years as a second car ( I also have a company car), and traded it when I thought I needed a larger (silly me). It would avage 29 mpg, in mixed drive from a 290hp 4 litre V8, simply amazing! The sound deadening is superb. If you ever have the opportunity to own one, do it, but hold on to it, they last forever.
Great Luxury Car
Smooth, quiet and powerful. Drive 400 miles on a tank of gas in serene comfort. My three young children prefer taking the LS 400 where they must sit side by side in the back versus taking our van where two of them can ride in captains seats while the third has the back row to himself. The car amazingly seems to promote family harmony. I bought my car in January 2014 with 133K on the odometer and it has run flawlessly for 8,000 miles over the past seven months. The original owner took excellent care of this car after he paid 60 grand for it. Although it cost much less as a used car, I am still maintaining it and treating it like new. Love this car!!
- Base SedanMSRP: $6,945755 mi away
- Base SedanMSRP: $8,4902,228 mi away
- Base SedanMSRP: N/A377 mi away
Dont buy this car.
Do not buy this car if you're not prepared to be awed into wondering why you considered buying anything else. I purchased my 98 model from a local dealership owned by a friend for just under 6k with 262k miles on it from the original owner. The same day of the purchase I changed the oil and front brake pads and rotors as a precaution then proceeded to drive the car 2000+ miles down the west coast. I maintained no less than 28.6mpg average at 80+mph in supreme comfort. The car has lots of power and the 5 speed auto keeps the car in its sweet spot when maximum performance is required. I love every aspect of this car.
sweet chariot
I baught this car new in January of 1998. I paid $62500 for it and it has been worth every penny. I love it. it rides like a cloud and it will out run any Camaro or mustang on the road. I would recommend this car to anyone . repairs are a bit pricey but it is a luxery car. this car has probably the best sound system I have ever heard. 16 years later it now has 170,000 miles on it and it run and drives like brand new.
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Absolute Best!
This is absolutely the best car on the planet to own for the long term! I purchased mine certified for $25K two years ago and I simply love this car. I actually get about 30 MPG highway cruising about 5MPH over the limit. No mechanical problems...none. Took a hit in the rear on a snowy day on I-95 causing $8k of damage, but protected me and my family as advertised and the ABS and vehicle anti-skid worked as promised. Also, Lexus service has been excellent and not too overly expensive like my last Mercedes 560 SEL. My family and friends are surprised to learn that I paid less with a better warranty than they did for their new SUVs, and I get much better mileage to boot. Winner!
Great Luxury Flagship
After my 250k miles 1990 LS400 got trashed in a hail storm, I had to find a suitable replacement. After extensive research the 1998-2000 LS400 models fit the bill-40 more hp(290), 5 speed transmission, VSC and V8vvti engine. I bought online a one-owner, dealer-serviced, full records 1998 in mint condition that sold new for $59k. My test drive was the 1400 mile effortless drive back to Denver. Got 30mpg hwy doing 80mph with A/C on. The car absolutely looks and performs as new. The service history consists only of factory-recommended maintenance; nothing ever broke. A full dealer inspection after my trip revealed no issues. Spectacular vehicle for one-tenth cost new.
Perfection
Bought a 1998LS 400 with 140K miles on it 4 months ago. I am amazed by the performance and reliability of a 15 year old car by the way it puts many of the new cars on the road to shame, particularly luxury sedans of the same age. The best compliment for this car happened when my 15 years said she wants one too because the ride is so smooth, quiet and fast (when needed)!!
Simply superb
I think all the other reviewers have made it clear: this is a phenomenal machine that will change your idea of what a car can be. The engine and transmission are incredible. The brakes are breathtaking. The comfort and quietness are sublime. The audio system is magnificent. The quality is unparalleled. It would take several pages or a whole book to accurately describe the superiority of this work of art, but reading all the reviews here is a good start. My favorite story about this car is that just after I bought it, I AVERAGED 33 mpg over a 253 mile stretch of Interstate. This is simply unbelievable for a car with a 290hp V8 engine. I LOVE this car!!!
Unbelievable!
It is unbelievable that Lexus can put up so many contradictory characteristics into the same car: Luxury to the extreme yet economical with high reliability and best in class MPG. With "Pulse and Glide" technique, I get 37 MPG on freeway. Using cruise control, I get 30 MPG; Top performance yet quiet and smooth as silk. Acceleration start at 30+ is breath taking. I challenge any sports car on the road. Feel like "Speak softly and carry a big stick" I call it the world class economical luxury sports cruiser.
Wife's car
Great car. purchased used in 2003 with 120K and has been the best car I have owned.
Best Used Car Purchase EVER!
I bought the car three years ago w/ 80k. I now have a bit over 140. Absolutely no problems whatsoever. I did the 90k maintenance which was about $1000, but was very extensive. The car is comfortable, quick, and surprisingly economical. Every once in a while I get the itch to buy a new car, but think what could I replace this with that would come close. The answer is nothing. I have two other Lexus's that I bought used, a '92 SC300, and a '95 ES 300 and have been just as fortunate with those. My daughter now has the ES at college with 260k, and my SC is my weekend car with 180k.
lets not get mad here, but.....just 12,500 miles
For years, I have been forced to see this magnificent automobile just sit in a garage...gather dust..be driven occasionally, and not very far. I begged, pleaded, and in many ways showed a willingness to damn near anything to buy that car. Finally, my sister in law gave in...and sold me the car. A true garage find. But I knew where it was all along. I no longer could just drive it once a year, to take it to the car wash and wish it were mine. I had all the fluids changed, belts (timing and serpentine) changed...the dealership screws up the belt change, but made good on the ensuing problems as I drove it back to Idaho (1300 miles) Lord, what a magnificent automobile. I have, until recently, driven Acuras....and they are great cars also. But this 1998 LS 400...is magnificent. I hesitate to take it out of the garage, leaving my 2013 Volvo out in the weather. Volvos don't need pampering. A Lexus demands it. I don't know if any of this helps you....I hope you get a Lexus that drives and performs like mine. And no, you can't have it. Now allow me to update...there is a rather strong smell in the "Queen"...can't figure out what it is or why. I tried a device that is supposed to take the smells out....just works for a while. I'm going to wait until spring to search again...but it's I'm my garage and I love it.
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The best car out there!
We no longer have our LS400. It had a "new" LS400 motor put into it, but it then ran into problems. It lasted almost 30 years. I still miss it! The value in a LS 400 is amazing! It runs better than a new car. It has been very dependable. It takes bumps in the road like a full size Lexus. I tend to have a problem with motion sickness. The LS400 is so smooth that vibrations seem to be absorbed in the suspension and the car floats on the road. Even though ours is a 1998, it is road worthy. It is a great car! 3/2018 Update: Well, last year, the dealership said it wasn't worth repairing. So, I researched a local garage that had excellent reviews and got it fixed for 3K. Because we do highway driving in Houston, I was reluctant to take it on the highway, so we gave it to my sister who still is running it in Indiana! It was such a nice car that we didn't want to sell it. The CarMax offered me $1500 for it. I wouldn't sell it for that. I knew God had a special place for it, and it is being appreciated for the nice car that it is! Update: The Lexus continues to roll in Indiana! It has had an engine replacement, with a Lexus engine, and is dependable and still very comfortable. They love the car! Update: the '98 LS 400 continues to be a treasured vehicle, riding like a dream! We had forgotten how beautifully that car drove! Highest accolades for it continue!
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Best of the Best
Lexus makes the BEST cars period. The LS shows it all off and gets you there in style, comfort, with a bit of performance. You'll not have to worry about these cars as they are virtually indestructable with bulletproof engines and transmissions. This is the fourth LS I've owned, moving from a '92 to '94 to '96 and now the '98 which is far superior to the others in the options and styling that it offers. The Xenon HIDs and Nakamichi sound really make a difference. Buy this car, you won't be sorry.
Almost Heaven
Great car for full-sized American. At 6-2 and 275 lbs, I fit easily and comfortably in this car better than any I have ever driven. Effortless man-machine interface - this car is takes the stress out of driving in the DC area's insane traffic. Not sporty or flashy - but has plenty of performance if you need it.
Best Car Ever
I have had this car for 3 weeks and it is hard for me not to make excuses to drive somewhere. The comfort and quality is unmatched. I also enjoy the power of 290 HP which will sprint from a traffic light as fast as a sports car. All this and it is 8 years old!! I get so many stares and compliments that it makes me want to blush!This is definitely a car that I will keep for years to come. Oh yeah I was a little disappointed that I did not get the Nakamichi Stereo. No need to be the Lexus Premier system is also incredible. I compared the MB E430 and the GS 400 which I almost bought. But after driving the LS 400 it was the best of both worlds. Speed. Power. Luxury. Can you tell how much I like this car!!!!
Most Reliable Car for Your Money
For a billion dollar investment from the factory, it’s a pretty easy find for cheap - even in great condition. Normally under $4000 from a dealer, and much much less if from a private party. It’s the perfect daily, first car, or the car you need but don’t want to finance. It’s also great if you simply don’t want it as a daily, but a toy - due to that v8. You’ll be amazed on how far this car will go without serious maintenance. (Assuming you are doing your preventative and regular maintenances.) The LS 400 is all around built extremely well. It’s the car you can actually rely on.
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Perfection
I bought this car in 2008 with 100k miles on it. I traded a 2003 Saab 9-3 and at first was concerned with "stepping back." Not anymore, this car offers comfort, power and convenience that even the newest Saab's can't touch. Have driven the car from NC to Key West Florida twice with no problems. Recently had to have the drivers side door lock actuator replaced, but that is minor for an 11 year old car and the warranty that I purchased for the car covered that. My Saab spent more time in the shop than in my garage. I have spent a lot more time with Lexie. You will never regret owning this car even though it is 11 years old. Lexus Rocks!
lexus
Great car! Have driven other makes and models and there is no comparision. Love this car!
Best Car on the Road
I have to say this car is truly astonishing!!! No comparsion with the previous year model. This car just glides over the road. Why buy a new car, when you can purchase a used Lexus LS400 that will simply be a better car, unless of course it is a new LS430. Believe me, you cannot buy a better car for the money, new or used than a LS400. Nice part is everyone will really believe you're loaded, even though you paid under $25K for the car.
Finest automobile I've owned
I am a senior who has owned many autos in the last sixty-two years. Our last cars, a 1986 Cressida, and a 1997 Avalon I thought excellent. Our Lexus is far and away the best and most luxurious. What a marvelous piece of machinery. For the life of me I can't understand how the engine can be so very strong and so audibly subtle! Simply put we're sold!!
A Dream Automobile
The LS 400 is unbelievably comfortable and quiet. Trips of 3 or more hours are a piece of cake. It handles well for a luxury sedan and gets surprisingly good gas mileage for a V8. As others have said, the workmanship is unparalleled. This is far and away the finest automobile I have owned. My wife has an Infiniti that I thought was top shelf until I bought the Lexus LS 400 - there is no comparison.
From a Mustang GT to a Family Car
The car is solid as a rock. It has never once coughed or buzzed or knocked. I feel very safe driving my family around in it. Switching from a Mustang GT stick, it took a while to get used to the delay in jumping off the line. If you want power immediately, or are doing an instant merge to freeway speeds, you better be power breaking it from the get go. It has plenty of power, even more than the GT, but that half second delay can get you if you aren't used to it. I am still finding cool features. It is luxury at its finest.
Like driving a stick of butter.....
If you want to test the side restraints of bucket seats, want a hard solid ride, with plenty of conrtol, and want to throw your passengers around, buy a BMW or a Mercedes. If you want an economy Lexus, buy an Infinity. If you total road stability with an exceptionally smooth ride, buy a Lexus sedan. We test drove the four above mentioned flagship models when they were three years old, and bought the Lexus. It's not very quick off the line, but when it gets rolling, it flies. It doesn't corner as rigidly as a BMW or Mercedes, but it handles (especially changing gears) much smoother. The seats are by far more comfortable. Long drives are effortless.
Built to last
tied the LS400 for more than 10 years and found it one of the best cars.
Best car out there hands down!
If you have a opportunity to purchase one of these cars... DO IT!!!. I guarantee it will be a life changing event. Have had a 91 ls400 for 10yrs. Without any issues and I run it hard every day. Went shopping for a truck.. came across this 98 LS 400 and in about 2 seconds I no longer needed a truck... Hands down one of the best high end cars out there. No other car will ever reach the LS400s' quality, comfort and reliability for the $...
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My second Lexus
I bought my first an ES 300 in 2000 for my wife to be, she loved it but I loved it more. I sold it to my brother in law after we were married and got my wife a Mercedes and almost a divorce. Needless to say I bought her a 1998 LS 400 from original owner that was impeccable and I found my true love. This is the best motor car for price, comfort, reliability in its class. This is as good as it gets! Classic styling, smooth riding and dependability. I love this car almost as much as my wife!!
True Value
This car for under $30,000 is an unbelievable value. For the cost of a new Camry, you can sacrafice the "honor" of buying new and pick up a world class car that will do anything asked of it with style, comfort, and class. I'm 33 years old and often people with $35,000 SUV's tell me that I "must be doing well" to be driving such a fine car...and I just laugh inside. This car, with low miles is truly the best vehicle value, period. Step up to class, comfort and luxury.
The Best Car Ever
Let me begin by telling you that I've owned many different cars...American..Never again, German...great cars but high maintanence...Japanese Lexus...the BEST ride ever...maybe doesn't handle as well as a Beemer...but reliability, Quality and plushness....this car has it all....
Great car, but not flawless.
Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love my LS400, but being the critic that I am...I was expecting even more perfection. Still the best car I've driven, though, when it comes to peace and serenity. Stereo system is good but not as heart thumping as I was expecting. My Jeep GC 5.9 Limited with only an amped 12" sealed sub sounded better. Transmission is awfully jumpy at times. Slow speed transitions can result in head snapping if not gentle with gas pedal. The car is SOO quiet, that I am able to hear every little thing. I have a small rattle in the door when driving over bumpy roads...small vibration/rattle in the sunroof also. That's it.
The best car in Lexus and all others
I bought the 98 LS 400 from Toyota at 110K for $11K in 2007. Tried many cars including MB and other Lexus. I would say this is a car beyond belief, 10 fold better I mean. Even compare to brand new RX, it still is on different level. I plan to buy another soon. No matter how you compare, comfort, quality and reliability, it all scores top of all cars. This car's body integrity is so good, you simply feel solid and can drive confidently.
Best Value in a Luxury Car Ever!
This is the best luxo cruiser on the planet for the money. Having also owned MBs and BMWs over the years, this car is unmatched in comfort and reliability.
Still #1
An extremely quite, but very sporty car. Sound system will impress even the most stubborn audiophiles. Non boastful yet beautiful, elegant exterior design. Ample leg and head room for those over 6' tall.
1998 Lexus LS400
This is an excellent car. I purchased it used in 2003, and this was an excellent decision on my part. I will be purchasing a CLK 500 Mercedes next month (June 2008), I wanted something a little smaller. However, I refuse to get rid of this car, they could never give me enough to trade in my vehicle. The car still looks good inside and out (10 years old). I get so many stares. I guess I will need a bigger garage. This car rides smooth, and is extremely reliable. Since it is 10 years old, of course it requires routine maintenance,not too expensive. This is a fine machine, exceeds expectations!
The best car I’ve ever owned !!!
100+ cars in my purchase history & I will never buy another car if it doesn’t have an “L” emblem. I’ve owned & leased more than my share of cars over the years & this 21 year old Lexus makes me wish I made this discovery a long time ago. I’m a retired auto mechanic & a good part of my free time still revolves around cars. The pure quality this car is built with makes me look @ the 136k miles on the odometer in disbelief. It feels mechanically sound @ all speeds & conditions & is easily the best car I’ve ever owned !!! 21 years old & 136k on the clock...I will only replace it with another Lexus !!!
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Rusting and peeling paint
2 inch rust bubble at the driver's side roof meets the windshield. The paint is peeling at two places on top of the rear bumper. I have to check if these items are covered by warranty but I doubt it. I never expected these items to happen to a Lexus. I live in California. The air conditioner is also weak even though it has been recharged and checked. I had to cut the factory floor mat as it was too close to the accelerator even with the tabs. The floor mat would depress the accelerator. The engine gunned once and I saw the floor mat against the accelerator. I sent in a complaint but got nowhere. Check your mat. Bad gas pedal design as the mat cannot slide under the pedal.
10 of 10
like consumer reports said when they first rated this car....they had to raise their standards as they had never tested a car this good
dream car...
i bought this car in 2003 with 70,ooo miles on it...I now have 224,000 and have had 0 problems!!I keep thinking i want to trade it in but then i always end up asking why..great ride,great realiability and unreal gas mileage from an 8 cylinder...I get 26 plus on long trips...you cant go wrong with this car..!!
Happy with my LS400
Truly a great car. Excellent value.
the greatest----PERIOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My first Lexus,a LS 400, 98 model. Absolutely the finest car I have ever owned. Smooth, quiet and fast. Nothing short about this car!
98 Lexus LS400
Superior car except transmission
The best!!
Excellent car. Luxury and comfort is the best definition for this car.This wonderful vehicle has everything than you can dream.
Perfect Luxury Car
This car is an incredible piece of machinery. It is quick, luxurious, attractive looking and reliable. It is a treat to drive and only requires gas and oil.
Home Car
Quite,reliable,and fun to drive. Will drive from Memphis to Atlanta on one tank of gas and have some to spare. Has plenty of trunk space and is easy to drive. In this car, you have no fear. It is safe and spunky!
Lexus LS 400 1998
Great car... no problems
Greatest car ever built
This my 4th Lexus, and my 3rd Lexus LS. I found a one owner 98 LS400 with only 71,500 miles in amazing condition. This car is 23 years old and handles and drives like a brand new car. It goes 0-60 in about 6 seconds and at 80mph the engine in effortlessly working at about 1900rpms. This is simply a marvel of engineering with unmated Toyota quality. Find one before the are all gone!
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The Best Car Ever Built
Astonishing engineering, it's abilities can only be appreciated when driven, an utter joy to own, an "understated masterpiece"! Something very special created by Toyota...
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