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How many miles will a 2008 Lexus LS 460 last?

With diligent maintenance, a 2008 Lexus LS 460 can commonly reach about 200,000 miles or more, and many examples push well past that milestone into the 250,000–300,000 mile range with attentive care.


What influences the lifespan of a 2008 LS 460


Several factors shape how many miles an older LS 460 will accrue. The following elements generally have the biggest impact on long-term reliability and total mileage:



  • Maintenance history and adherence to the recommended service intervals

  • Driving conditions, including mix of highway cruising vs. heavy city traffic

  • Climate and exposure to harsh weather or road salt

  • Quality of previous repairs and parts used

  • Regular attention to potential wear items such as suspension components, brakes, and cooling system


These factors collectively determine how much life remains in a high-mileage LS 460. A car with complete service records and careful ownership is more likely to reach higher mileage than one with inconsistent maintenance.


Typical mileage range for a well-kept 2008 LS 460


Because the LS 460 uses a robust V8 drivetrain and a luxury-focused platform, well-maintained examples often reach the 200,000 mile mark and sometimes exceed it. Reaching 250,000 miles is not unusual for owners who keep up with preventive maintenance, and surpassing 300,000 miles is possible but less common, requiring disciplined upkeep and timely replacement of wear items.


Maintenance practices that extend longevity


To maximize the lifespan of a 2008 LS 460, owners should follow a proactive maintenance plan that targets both routine service and potential trouble spots. The list below outlines key areas to prioritize:



  • Regular oil changes with the recommended grade of synthetic oil, typically every 5,000–7,500 miles depending on driving conditions

  • Timely transmission fluid checks/replacements and inspections of shifting performance

  • Inspection and maintenance of the suspension system, especially if the car has air or adaptive suspension components

  • Cooling system maintenance, including hoses, radiator, water pump, and thermostat to prevent overheating

  • Seals, gaskets, and electrical connections checked and repaired as needed to prevent leaks and corrosion

  • Brake system upkeep, including pads, rotors, and brake fluid changes; tire maintenance and alignment

  • Ignition components, spark plugs, and coil packs replaced per OEM recommendations to avoid misfires and efficiency loss


Following these practices doesn’t guarantee unlimited miles, but they substantially improve the odds of achieving higher mileage with fewer major, surprise repairs.


Common issues to watch on a 2008 LS 460


While the LS 460 is built for longevity, certain systems tend to show wear as the miles accumulate. Being aware of these potential trouble spots can help owners plan maintenance before problems escalate:



  • Suspension and ride-height systems, including any hydraulic or air suspension components

  • Automatic transmission wear and potential solenoid or valve body issues

  • Electrical modules and sensors that control comfort, climate, and driving aids

  • Brake system wear and potential rotor warping or caliper sticking

  • Cooling system age-related leaks or hose failure


Proactive inspection and early repair of these areas can mitigate costly failures and support higher mileage.


Real-world mileage notes


In owner communities and automotive reports, well-maintained 2008 LS 460s have been documented reaching 200,000–250,000 miles reliably, with some stretching into the 300,000-mile range when owners commit to scheduled maintenance and repairs. As with any older luxury sedan, the cost of parts and labor for high-mile items tends to rise, so budgeting for potential big-ticket repairs is prudent for prospective buyers and current owners alike.


Bottom line


In summary, a 2008 Lexus LS 460 can reasonably last into the 200,000+ mile range with consistent, preventive maintenance. The practical upper limit varies based on how well the car has been cared for, driving habits, and climate—yet the vehicle was designed with a durability profile that supports long-term ownership when cared for properly.


Summary


For prospective buyers or current owners, the key takeaway is that longevity depends on maintenance discipline, driving conditions, and timely repairs. Expect around 200,000 miles as a solid baseline for a well-maintained 2008 LS 460, with many cars reaching 250,000 miles or more and a smaller number approaching or surpassing 300,000 miles with exceptional care. Regular service, careful driving, and early attention to wear items are the best predictors of reaching high mile totals.

What is a 2008 Lexus LS 460 worth?


The price for a used 2008 Lexus LS 460 varies, with listings typically ranging from approximately $4,500 to $15,000, depending on condition, mileage, and specific trim. For a more specific value, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) notes a fair purchase price of around $8,051, while Edmunds provides a value range of $2,235 to $7,906.
 

  • National Price Range: Used 2008 Lexus LS 460s can be found anywhere from about $4,450 to $14,995, with many listings falling between $7,000 and $12,000. 
  • Fair Purchase Price: Based on the KBB Fair Purchase Price, the national average is around $8,051. 
  • Edmunds Value: Edmunds estimates a value range for this model of $2,235 to $7,906, depending on its condition. 
  • Trim Levels: Prices can differ based on the trim. The standard LS 460 has an original MSRP of $73,895, while the longer-wheelbase LS 460 L had an original MSRP of $77,550. 



Is the Lexus LS 460 a reliable vehicle?


Lexus LS460 Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Lexus LS460 Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 10th out of 30 for luxury fullsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $767 which means it has average ownership costs.



Does a 2008 Lexus LS 460 have a timing belt or chain?


The 2008 Lexus LS 460 uses a timing chain, not a timing belt. The switch to a timing chain began with the 2007 model year for durability, and this component is designed to last for the life of the engine and generally does not require routine replacement like a timing belt.
 

  • Timing Chain: The 2008 LS 460 is equipped with a timing chain, which is a more durable alternative to a timing belt. 
  • Longevity: Timing chains are built to last for the life of the engine and don't have a specific replacement interval like a timing belt. 
  • Signs of an issue: While rare, a broken timing chain would cause the engine to not start. More common symptoms of a stretched chain include a check engine light and excessive noise from the timing cover. 



Is a 2008 Lexus LS460 reliable?


The 2008 Lexus LS 460 is considered a very reliable car, ranking well for luxury sedans, with a strong 4.6L V8 engine known for longevity. However, owners should be aware of potential issues like problems with the navigation/audio system, the push-start switch, and the brake actuator, which can be expensive to repair. Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of this vehicle.
 
This video reviews the 2008 Lexus LS 460 and discusses its features and potential problems: 58sMasry MotorsYouTube · Sep 14, 2020
Reliability overview

  • Overall rating: The 2008 LS 460 has a good reliability rating, placing it 10th out of 30 for luxury full-size cars. 
  • Engine: The 4.6L V8 engine is known for being very durable, with some owners reporting it lasting over 500,000 miles when properly maintained. 
  • Ownership costs: The average annual repair cost is average for its class, and it is often more affordable to maintain than its European luxury competitors. 

Common issues to watch for
  • Brake actuator: A common and expensive problem reported by some owners is a clicking sound and intermittent operation of the brakes, which can require a costly repair to the brake actuator. 
  • "Push Start" switch: An intermittent non-start issue has been reported due to a failing push-start button. 
  • Audio and navigation: The Mark Levinson audio system can develop a chirping noise, and the navigation and multi-cluster display screens may have issues like remaining blank. 
  • Valve spring recall: There was a recall for certain model years, including 2008, where a micro-foreign object in the valve spring material could cause it to degrade and break. It is important to ensure this has been addressed. 

Tips for potential buyers
  • Check for maintenance history: Given the potential for costly repairs, especially for the brake actuator, it is crucial to look for a vehicle with a complete and well-documented maintenance history. 
  • Inspect the navigation and audio system: Test all features of the infotainment and audio system thoroughly to ensure there are no issues with the screen, sound, or navigation. 
  • Consider the hybrid model (LS 600h): While the standard LS 460 is generally reliable, the hybrid version should likely be avoided due to the potentially very high cost of replacing the battery pack. 

This video explains the ownership experience of a Lexus LS460 with high mileage: 1mBennie AustYouTube · Apr 22, 2024


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.