1997 Lexus SC300

1997 Lexus SC300

The 1997 Lexus SC300 is a luxury coupe that was available with a 3.0L V6 engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission. The SC300 was praised for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and stylish design. However, it also had some common issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

• 3.0L V6
  • Timing Belt Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can fail, causing the engine to lose power and stall.
    • Solution: Replace the timing belt and any other damaged components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can develop a leak, causing rough idling, decreased performance, and poor fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip between gears or hesitate to shift.
    • Solution: Flush the transmission fluid and replace the filter. If the problem persists, the transmission may need to be rebuilt.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve body may develop issues, causing rough shifting, delayed engagement, or flaring.
    • Solution: Replace the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: The front control arm bushings can wear out, causing clunking noises, poor handling, and tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the front control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator may fail, causing the battery to drain and the vehicle to stall.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain even when the vehicle is not in use.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic battery drain. If none is found, replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may leak water into the cabin, causing damage to the interior.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may malfunction, causing insufficient heating or cooling.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty component(s) in the climate control system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Overall Summary

The 1997 Lexus SC300 is generally a reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues that owners should be aware of. The most serious and expensive issues are related to the timing belt and transmission. However, many of the other issues can be relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. Overall, the SC300 is a solid choice for those who are looking for a comfortable and stylish luxury coupe.