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Used 2002 Lexus SC 430 Consumer Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars
122 reviews

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Close to Perfect

Lexus_B, 06/23/2009
2002 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful

This Lexus is outstanding. My sc430 handles nice, is comfortable, and is very reliable thus far- all of what you would expect from a Lexus. The hardtop operation is stunning. The luxury appointments are breathtaking. In terms of performance, the car won't blow you away, but the sc430 is adequately powerful and fun to drive. The car also feels very safe and drives very strong in the rain and snow. I immediately changed the run flat tires to Kumo Grand Touring Platinum tires, and the new tires greatly improve the ride, traction, and handling. Even with the new tires, the ride is a bit harsher than I expected for a Lexus. Overall, this car is as close to perfect as you will come for the price.

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5 out of 5 stars

Dream Car

David A., 10/01/2016
2002 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
14 of 15 people found this review helpful

Just bought a 2002 SC 430. I have been wanting this car every since it came out in the early 2000s, so my review may be a little biased lol. It has high mileage, 218,000 to be exact, but the previous owner has taken meticulous care of the car, and it still looks and drives like its new. With Lexus/Toyota reliability, this car is only at middle age! lol. No, its not a "barn burner".....you wont be able to outrun a corvette at the stoplight, but the V8 is quietly powerful and the power is there when you need it. for me, its definitely a keeper....will run it until the wheels literally fall off. Then I will just replace the wheels and continue on lol. One drawback: I do agree with the other reviewers in reference to the harsh/rough ride due to the run flats....

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 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
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5 out of 5 stars

2002 Lexus SC430

4NBellinghamWA, 12/09/2019
updated 06/10/2021
2002 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

I've had my eye on an SC430 for over a decade. I pulled the trigger. No regrets. Very nice car. Very much a Sport Coup... not a sports car. Think touring. And that is what I desired. I'm interested in comfort, reliability, ride, sound attenuation on tour...not hare-pin curves. Very satisfied.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 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
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4 out of 5 stars

Fun and finally affordable!

Linda R, 01/06/2019
2002 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

Fun little sports car that is becoming more affordable. While it's technology is now dated, it's a fun weekend car. It is SOLID and will last you forever. Back seats were put in to make insurance of vehicle cheaper, but are not usable for people. It does provide added storage over cars with no backseats (ie Miata). So you can stop at the store and get a few things and put them in the back seat. Cup holders are too small for today's fancy bottles and flasks, but there is a cup holder at the end of the armrest that will hold big bottles - just awkward to reach. The leather is wonder and holds up well. Love the wood trim. The navigation door on mine would only open some of the time, but it was too dated to be useful and Lexus was unable to update it. I am sure you could get an aftermarket system to put in. Acceleration isn't fast compared to new turbo vehicles - my Ford Escape accelerates faster! But it's a V8 and brings up nostalgia fun. Handling is great, it sticks to the road and brakes stop it well. Mine rode a bit rough and bumpy compared to my Infiniti SUV, but for the price of a used one, it didn't detract from what a fun little car it is.

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

Practical, Fun car

Bill, 04/23/2016
2002 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful

Had this car for 12 years, trouble free, fun. Best car we have ever had. Moving to snow country, not practical, so with sadness, it must go!

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
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