1991 Lexus LS400

Introduction:

The 1991 Lexus LS400 is a luxury sedan renowned for its reliability, comfort, and performance. It was equipped with a single engine and transmission option: a 4.0-liter V8 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The LS400 generated 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, delivering a smooth and responsive driving experience. While the LS400 is highly acclaimed, there have been some reported issues with the vehicle over the years.

Engine

4.0-liter V8 Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idling, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace piston rings or entire engine
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging or holding gears, erratic transmission behavior
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shuddering, slipping, or overheating
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from front suspension, loss of alignment
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Air Suspension Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, reduced ride comfort
  • Solution: Replace air suspension bags
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead prematurely
  • Solution: Test and replace faulty components (e.g., alternator, starter)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electrical System Malfunctions:
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical functions, power windows or locks not working
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair specific electrical faults
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Molding Deterioration:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fading, cracking, or breaking door moldings
  • Solution: Replace door moldings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing on the dashboard, specifically near the vents
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inoperative air conditioning, heating, or ventilation system
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair specific component (e.g., compressor, blower motor)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1991 Lexus LS400 is generally a reliable vehicle, but it is not immune to some issues. The most severe and costly issues to watch out for include the intake manifold gasket failure, oil consumption, and transmission slipping. While other issues are less significant, they can still impact the vehicle’s driving experience and comfort.