1997 Lexus LX450

Introduction:

The 1997 Lexus LX450 is a full-size luxury SUV that offers a blend of off-road capability and on-road comfort. It is powered by a powerful 4.5-liter V8 engine that produces 215 horsepower and 282 lb-ft of torque. A 4-speed automatic transmission is the only transmission option available. The LX450 has a spacious and well-equipped interior, and it comes with a variety of advanced features for its time.

Despite its overall reliability, the 1997 Lexus LX450 has experienced some common issues that owners have reported. Here is a comprehensive list of these issues, categorized by major components:

Engine

• 1FZ-FE 4.5L V8
  • Oil leaks: The LX450’s 1FZ-FE V8 engine is known to develop oil leaks from the valve covers, timing chain cover, and oil pan gasket.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Timing chain rattle: Some LX450s have experienced excessive timing chain rattle, particularly at cold start-up.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain guides.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500
  • Knock sensor failure: The LX450’s knock sensor can fail, causing the engine to run poorly and potentially leading to engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the knock sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail on the LX450, causing a vacuum leak and a rough idle.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Transmission

• A343F 4-speed automatic
  • Slipping gears: The A343F 4-speed automatic transmission may experience slipping gears due to worn clutch packs or valve body issues.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000
  • Shifting problems: The LX450’s transmission may also exhibit shifting problems, such as delayed or harsh shifts.
    • Solution: Service the transmission (replace fluid and filter), or rebuild or replace the transmission if necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000

Suspension

• Front suspension: The LX450’s front suspension may experience premature wear of the ball joints and bushings.
  • Solution: Replace the worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
• Rear suspension: The rear suspension may experience worn shocks or springs, resulting in a rough ride or handling issues.
  • Solution: Replace the worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator may fail on the LX450, causing the battery to discharge and the electrical components to malfunction.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Battery drain: Some LX450s may experience a battery drain issue due to a parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Identify and fix the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500

Exterior

• Rust: The LX450 may experience rust formation on the frame, body panels, and suspension components.
  • Solution: Regularly wash and wax the vehicle, and treat any rust spots promptly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the rust

Interior

• Climate control issues: The LX450’s climate control system may experience problems such as a faulty blower motor, blend door actuators, or refrigerant leaks.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the specific issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
• Power seat issues: The LX450’s power seats may experience issues such as inoperable switches or worn seat motors.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500

Summary:

Overall, the 1997 Lexus LX450 is a reliable and capable SUV. However, it has experienced some common issues that владельцы should be aware of. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but most are relatively minor and can be addressed with regular maintenance and repairs.