2007 Lexus GS430

Here’s a comprehensive list of common issues and complaints for the 2007 Lexus GS430, categorized by major components.

The 2007 Lexus GS430 is a luxury sedan known for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and reliable performance. The GS430 is equipped with a 4.3-liter V8 engine (3UZ-FE) producing 290 horsepower and 319 lb-ft of torque. The GS series also came with the GS350 which came with a 3.5L V6 engine, and the GS450h hybrid which came with a 3.5L V6 engine with a hybrid electric motor. Many owners appreciate the car’s quiet cabin, powerful engine, and luxurious features. Common complaints often revolve around the aging electronics, potential suspension issues, and fuel economy, especially compared to the V6 and hybrid models.

Engine

4.3L V8 (3UZ-FE)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, timing cover, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• VVTi Actuator Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Variable Valve Timing intelligent (VVTi) system can develop issues over time, leading to rough idling, reduced power, and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the VVTi actuator or solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (A760E)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter problems can manifest as shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds, or delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild might be necessary if the problem has caused significant internal damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ depending on the extent of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The optional air suspension system is prone to failure over time. Symptoms include the car sagging, especially overnight, a bumpy ride, and the air suspension warning light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacing the air struts or the air compressor. Conversion to a conventional coilover suspension system is also a popular option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ per strut or for a full conversion kit.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The control arm bushings, particularly in the front, can wear out, leading to clunking noises, vague steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per control arm.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen can fail, exhibiting issues like dimming, flickering, or complete blackouts.
  • Solution: Replacing the navigation screen or the associated control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the source of the replacement (new, used, or refurbished).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mark Levinson Amplifier Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with the Mark Levinson audio system, the amplifier can fail, leading to distorted sound or no sound at all.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the amplifier.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive battery drain, even with a new battery. This can be caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Condensation can build up inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the bulbs.
  • Solution: Removing the headlights and drying them out, resealing the housings, or replacing the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the approach.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard material can develop cracks, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard (expensive) or using a dashboard cover to conceal the cracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Electric seat functions may fail. This can be due to failing seat motors or other mechanical failure with the seats.
  • Solution: Replacing the failing seat motor or other parts of the seat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Lexus GS430 is a generally reliable vehicle, but like any car of its age, it’s prone to certain issues. The most common problems involve oil leaks, suspension components (especially the air suspension), electrical issues (navigation screen and amplifier failure), and interior wear (dashboard cracking). The severity and cost of repairs can vary significantly, with suspension and electrical issues potentially being the most expensive to address. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended to identify potential problems before buying a used 2007 GS430.