How much does it cost to maintain a GS300?

Most Lexus GS300s require roughly $500 to $1,500 per year for routine maintenance, with higher costs if major repairs are needed or mileage is high.

The GS300, produced from the late 1990s through the mid-2000s, uses a durable 2JZ-GE inline-six engine shared with other Toyota and Lexus models. Maintenance costs vary considerably based on the car’s age, mileage, prior upkeep, and whether you use a dealer or independent shop. Below, we break down typical ongoing costs and common repairs to help owners budget responsibly.

Routine maintenance costs

This list outlines the kinds of routine services you’ll encounter and their typical price ranges when performed by a shop. Prices vary by region and labor rate, and DIY maintenance can reduce these amounts.

• Oil changes and filters: about $120–$300 per year (1–2 changes annually, often with synthetic oil).


• Air and cabin filters, plus fluids: about $40–$120 per year.


• Tires, rotation, and alignment: about $100–$280 per year (tire costs occur as needed, with rotations/alignments more regularly).


• Brakes (pads and occasional rotor work): about $100–$250 per year (more if rotors are replaced or wear is heavy).


• Battery replacement (amortized): about $20–$60 per year.


• Miscellaneous inspections and maintenance items (belts, spark plugs, etc.): about $40–$100 per year.

In total, routine maintenance for a GS300 tends to fall in the range of roughly $500–$1,000 per year for a well-maintained car, with higher costs if the vehicle has higher mileage or requires dealer-level service.

Common repairs and long-term costs

As a GS300 ages, certain components are more prone to wear. This list covers typical repair items and broad price ranges you might encounter, depending on whether parts are OEM or aftermarket and on labor rates.

• Valve cover gasket replacement: $400–$900.


• Rear main seal or seepage repair: $800–$1,600.


• Cooling system components (radiator, hoses, water pump): $300–$900 for hoses and pump; radiators can be $500–$1,000.


• Timing chain/tensioner and related wear (on this engine, timing chains are generally chain-driven and can wear with age): $1,000–$2,500 if tensioners or guides require service.


• Suspension components (control arms, bushings, ball joints, tie rods): $200–$1,000 per corner depending on parts and labor.


• Brake system repairs (pads, rotors, calipers as needed): $150–$250 per axle for pads; rotors/additional work increases the cost.


• Wheel bearings: $300–$600 per wheel.


• Transmission service or repair (drain/flush, pan gasket, or rebuild): $200–$500 for routine service; major rebuilds can run $1,500–$3,000+ depending on extent.


• A/C system service or compressor replacement: $500–$1,200.


• Electrical/ABS sensors and related components: $100–$400 per sensor; more complex electrical fixes can run higher.

Older GS300s typically require more frequent fixes than newer cars, and costs can spike when multiple components near the end of their service life. Having a cushion for unexpected repairs and keeping thorough service records can help manage total ownership costs.

Summary

In short, budgeting around $500–$1,000 per year for routine maintenance is reasonable for a well-kept GS300, with the potential to exceed that range if major repairs arise or if dealer service is used. Expect higher costs as the car ages and mileage climbs, especially for wear-prone items like seals, gaskets, and the cooling/suspension systems. Planning ahead and shopping around for trusted, knowledgeable shops can help keep ongoing maintenance affordable over the life of the vehicle.

Is Lexus IS 300 expensive to maintain?

A Lexus IS 300 will cost about $5,848 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for luxury sedan models by $3,842. There is also a 15.63% chance that an IS 300 will require a major repair during that time.

Is the Lexus GS300 expensive to maintain?

The estimated cost to maintain and repair a Lexus GS300 ranges from $105 to $3599, with an average of $416.

Is the Lexus GS300 reliable?

The Lexus GS300 has a reputation for strong engine reliability, especially with its durable 2JZ-GE engine, but can have issues with other components as the vehicle ages. Common concerns include maintenance-related issues like carbon buildup, potential for oil burning if neglected, and problems with other systems such as the alternator, power window actuators, Mark Levinson amplifier, and suspension components like the control arms and bushings. 
You can watch this video for a review of the 2006 Lexus GS300 and a discussion of its reliability: 1mPOV NelsonYouTube · Dec 23, 2021
Engine and drivetrain 

• 2JZ-GE engine: The non-turbo 2JZ-GE engine is widely considered very reliable and durable. 
• Carbon buildup: Some models can experience carbon buildup, which can lead to oil consumption issues. This is often addressed with a maintenance campaign in some regions and can be mitigated with regular maintenance. 
• Oil burning: Lack of maintenance can lead to oil burning. Consistent oil changes and proper upkeep can prevent this. 

Potential problem areas

• Alternator: Some owners have reported alternator failures, sometimes requiring a replacement or even a modified regulator. 
• Mark Levinson amplifier: In some models, a faulty or missing exhaust vent flap can allow water in and damage the Mark Levinson amplifier, which can be expensive to replace. 
• Power door lock actuators: These may fail, but some owners report they can be a DIY fix. 
• Sunroof: Although rare, there are reports of exploding sunroofs, possibly due to the same pressure relief issues that affect the amplifier. 

This video discusses common reliability issues with the 4th generation Lexus GS 350: 55sDiscerning CarsYouTube · Jan 10, 2024
Suspension

• Wear and tear: Suspension components like control arms, bushings, and brakes can wear out, especially with performance-oriented driving.
• Clunking sounds: Owners have reported clunking noises over potholes, which can indicate worn-out suspension parts. 

General maintenance

• Regular maintenance is crucial: As with any vehicle, consistent and timely maintenance is key to longevity. Keep up with oil changes and other recommended services to avoid potential issues. 
• Check for issues: Before purchasing a used GS300, have a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) to check for any existing issues with the engine, alternator, or suspension. 
• Review the vehicle's history: Look for a vehicle that has been well-maintained, as this is a strong indicator of its overall condition and reliability. 

Is the Lexus 3GR reliable?

Low Maintenance & Reliability – Lexus engines, including the 3GR-FE, are renowned for their durability. With a simple yet robust design, the 3GR-FE engine requires minimal maintenance, ensuring longevity and a hassle-free ownership experience.