2000 Lexus LS400

The 2000 Lexus LS400 is a luxury sedan known for its reliability, comfortable ride, and quiet cabin. It features a 4.0L 1UZ-FE V8 engine producing 290 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its smooth ride, dependable engine, and luxurious features. Some common complaints include the dated technology, relatively bland styling, and lower fuel economy compared to newer vehicles.

Engine

4.0L 1UZ-FE V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often from the valve cover gaskets or the front crankshaft seal. Visible oil drips, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets, front crankshaft seal, and/or any other leaking seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Potential for timing belt failure if not replaced at recommended intervals (90,000 miles). Can cause severe engine damage if the belt breaks.
  • Solution: Replace timing belt, water pump, tensioner, and idler pulleys as a preventative maintenance measure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ for a complete timing belt service.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, poor acceleration, and check engine light (CEL) with codes related to the MAF sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

A650E 5-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or failure to shift. Often caused by worn-out solenoids or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, consider replacing the solenoids or a transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for fluid flush, $300 - $800 for solenoid replacement, $2000 - $4000+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, compressor failure, vehicle leaning to one side, “height low” warning light.
  • Solution: Replace air struts, compressor, height sensors, or air lines as needed. Consider converting to a coil-over suspension system for increased reliability.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per strut, $500 - $1000+ for compressor, $1000 - $3000+ for coil-over conversion.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and steering response.
  • Solution: Replace worn-out suspension bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on which bushings need replacement and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating, slow or erratic window movement, grinding noises from inside the door.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Lighting Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or non-functional instrument cluster lights.
  • Solution: Replace burned-out bulbs or repair/replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 for bulb replacement, $200 - $500+ for cluster repair/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Antenna Mast Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Antenna mast not retracting or extending properly, broken antenna mast.
  • Solution: Replace the antenna mast or antenna assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 for mast replacement, $200 - $400+ for assembly replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation Screen Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Blank or malfunctioning navigation screen.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the severity of the issue and repair options.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Display Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control display not working or displaying incorrect information.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the climate control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Lexus LS400 is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any car of its age, it is prone to certain issues. Engine oil leaks and timing belt maintenance are common concerns. Suspension issues, particularly with the air suspension system (if equipped), can also be costly to address. Electrical problems like power window regulator and instrument cluster issues can also arise. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others, like transmission or air suspension work, can be more significant investments. Overall, regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly are key to keeping the LS400 running smoothly.