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What is the life expectancy of a Lexus LS 400?


The Lexus LS 400, a flagship luxury sedan introduced by Lexus in 1989, is renowned for its reliability, comfort, and engineering excellence. As a seasoned auto service provider, I’ve encountered many LS 400s in my years of experience, and their longevity is a testament to Toyota's commitment to quality. But how long can you expect a Lexus LS 400 to last? Let’s dive into the details.


Average Life Expectancy of a Lexus LS 400


With proper maintenance, a Lexus LS 400 can easily last between 300,000 to 500,000 miles. Many owners report driving their LS 400s well beyond 300,000 miles without major issues. This impressive lifespan is due to the car's robust build quality, reliable V8 engine, and meticulous engineering. However, achieving this level of longevity depends on several factors, including regular maintenance and driving habits.


Factors That Influence the Lifespan


While the Lexus LS 400 is built to last, its actual lifespan can vary based on the following factors:



  • Maintenance: Regular oil changes, timely replacement of wear-and-tear components, and adherence to the manufacturer’s service schedule are crucial.

  • Driving Habits: Gentle driving and avoiding aggressive acceleration or braking can reduce wear on the engine and transmission.

  • Climate: Cars driven in extreme climates may experience faster wear on certain components, such as the suspension or cooling system.

  • Quality of Repairs: Using genuine parts and working with experienced mechanics ensures the car remains in top condition.


Tips to Maximize the Life of Your Lexus LS 400


If you own a Lexus LS 400 and want to keep it running smoothly for years to come, here are some tips:



  • Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule religiously.

  • Use high-quality engine oil and replace it at regular intervals.

  • Inspect and replace the timing belt as recommended (usually every 90,000 to 100,000 miles).

  • Keep an eye on the suspension system, as it may require attention over time.

  • Flush and replace fluids, such as coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, as needed.

  • Address minor issues promptly to prevent them from escalating into major problems.


Conclusion


The Lexus LS 400 is a remarkable vehicle that can provide decades of reliable service when properly cared for. Its reputation for longevity is well-deserved, and with the right maintenance practices, you can enjoy this luxury sedan for hundreds of thousands of miles. At Kevin’s Autos, we’ve worked on countless LS 400s, and we’re here to help you keep yours running like new. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out!


Frequently Asked Questions

Is the LS400 engine reliable?


Especially one built by an auto manufacturer known for reliability, like Lexus. The second-gen LS400 benefits from the 1UZ-FE V8 engine. This powertrain is known for being able to achieve extremely high mileage and remain reliable while doing so.



Can a Lexus last 500000 miles?


Should you purchase them? Since the Lexus LX can last up to 500,000 miles, it's safe to invest in one with more than 100,000 miles on the odometer. However, we do recommend being cautious and taking it for a test drive or to a mechanic beforehand to avoid any surprises during your time as an owner.



How long do Lexus LS engines last?


The LS460 is overall quite bulletproof. I've seen the 4.6 V8 last as much as 500K miles without issue, so long as the proper maintenance has been done throughout its life. You should not run into anything that's hard to eliminate, it's going to be the standard fluid maintenance, brake, and suspension wear and tear.



What is the lifespan of a Lexus is engine?


Many owners report achieving well over 200,000 miles on their IS 250 with proper maintenance and care.



What makes the LS engine so reliable?


GM also made sure to use hyper eutectic pistons on the LS. This means they expand less at high heat while allowing tighter tolerances. The LS also uses improved rods and connecting rods which can also handle more power than the ones on the small block. The LS' most impressive advantage though is its cylinder head.



How many miles can a Lexus LS 400 last?


High mileage for those is 250k+. They're very reliable cars but any car without maintenance can have issues and these were known for a couple things which could be expensive, like the starter under the intake manifold. If you can get one under 200k in good condition it's certainly a car that can last a very long time.



What is the highest mileage on the LS400?


The million-mile Lexus LS owned by auto journalist Matt Farah has finally lived up to its name, with the 1996 LS 400 reaching 1,000,000 miles this past week. Farah purchased the LS used for $1,500 USD with 897,000 miles on the odometer in 2014, with the plan to break the million-mile mark.



What is the life expectancy of the LS engine?


As long as you give it some TLC you should get 400k or so. Just don't beat it too much and change all the fluids on a regular basis. When properly maintained, our engines will run for a good long time. Lots of guys on here have well over 100,000 mile and are still flogging them at the track on a regular basis.



Does Lexus LS hold its value?


A 2021 Lexus LS has depreciated $32,807 or 42% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $44,520 and trade-in value of $40,729.



Are Lexus LS400 expensive to maintain?


RepairPal estimates that a Lexus LS 400 should cost you around $435 a year, with CarEdge reporting a ten-year maintenance cost of around $6,875, but these are broad averages across dozens of model years, not specifically for the first generation models.


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.