1990 Lexus LS400

The 1990 Lexus LS400 was a luxury sedan that was known for its reliability, comfort, and performance. It was powered by a 4.0-liter V8 engine that produced 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The engine was mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

• 4.0-liter V8
  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, engine misfires
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Timing belt failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, loss of power, catastrophic engine damage
    • Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Oil leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level
    • Solution: Replace leaking gaskets or seals
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Transmission

• 4-speed automatic
  • Transmission slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power, shuddering during acceleration
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Torque converter failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

Suspension

• Front suspension
  • Strut failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, clunking noises, uneven tire wear
    • Solution: Replace struts
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Rear suspension
  • Shock absorber failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, loss of stability, uneven tire wear
    • Solution: Replace shock absorbers
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical system problems, battery drain
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Starter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, clicking noise when starting
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Electrical shorts
  • Description/Symptoms: Blown fuses, flickering lights, electrical system problems
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical shorts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Sunroof leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin through the sunroof
  • Solution: Replace sunroof seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Door handle failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks or becomes loose
  • Solution: Replace door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Interior

• Interior trim rattles
  • Description/Symptoms: Plastic trim pieces rattling or vibrating
  • Solution: Tighten or replace trim pieces
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Climate control issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning or heating not working properly
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair climate control system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

Summary

The 1990 Lexus LS400 is a reliable and well-built luxury sedan. However, it does have some common issues that can be expensive to repair. The most serious issues include engine intake manifold gasket failure, timing belt failure, and transmission problems. However, many of these issues can be prevented with proper maintenance and care.