1996 Lexus GS300

1996 Lexus GS300

The 1996 Lexus GS300 is a mid-size luxury sedan powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces 220 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. It is available with either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission. The GS300 is known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and powerful engine. However, it has also been known to experience some common issues.

Engine

• 3.0-liter V6
  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and/or oil leaking from the intake manifold gasket, rough idle, decreased engine performance
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing belt tensioner failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Noisy or grinding noise from the engine, decreased engine performance
    • Solution: Replace the timing belt tensioner
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-speed automatic
  • Transmission shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration
    • Solution: Replace the transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 5-speed manual
  • Shifting problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises during shifting
    • Solution: Replace the transmission or clutch
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut mount failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise from the front of the car, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery discharges quickly when the car is not running
  • Solution: Replace the battery or alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight switch failure * Description/Symptoms: Headlights will not turn on or turn off, flickering headlights * Solution: Replace the headlight switch * Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ * Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door lock cylinder failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty unlocking or locking the doors
  • Solution: Replace the door lock cylinder
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC controls failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control system not working properly, fan not working
  • Solution: Replace the HVAC controls
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Lexus GS300 is a reliable and well-built vehicle, but it is not without its potential issues. The most common issues are related to the engine, transmission, and electrical system. While these issues can be costly to fix, they are not generally severe and can be prevented with regular maintenance.