Owner Lee Massey says, “I used to work as a Lexus technician, and I’ve owned two SC430s, including the one I’m driving right now, a 2004/04 with 80,000 miles. My secondhand SC430s haven’t given me any trouble, and I recall them from my Lexus days as being dependable and well-built. It’s difficult to beat if you enjoy moving around in something strong and unique that won’t cause you to worry about repair costs during the night.
A few head gasket failures in engines have been attributed to extremely low coolant levels. Examine the lower radiator’s condition because it can leak into the transmission oil cooler. The gearbox fluid can also leak into the coolant. The exhaust system’s oxygen sensor may malfunction. Since the starter motor is inconveniently situated beneath the inlet manifold, which must be removed to replace it, make sure it is functioning properly. There is also a vapour canister, and they can fail very expensively. Timing belt change is every 100,000 kilometers. The center belt tensioner and the water pump should both be replaced at the same time because they both have weak points.
GEARBOX It ought to be really slick. If juddery, look for contaminated coolant. Every 45,000 miles, the transmission fluid should be changed.
WHEEL, BRAKES, AND SUSPENSION – Inspect the front wheel bearings and the rear top suspension arms for wear. Early cars with hard rides should have their front control arm bushes checked. Watch out for clunks from here as well. The suspension made of aluminum’s steel components may decay. Examine the state of the brake pipes. Check that the tire pressure monitoring system is functional. As the valves wear out, some owners disable it, although this is a MOT issue. The spiral cable may be the source of steering wheel noise during turning (an expensive repair).
BODY – Look for corrosion around the back axle and subframe in particular at the rear.
FOLDING HARD-TOP – Lack of use can cause position sensors to malfunction. Check for roof corrosion and leaks brought on by worn-out seals.
INTERIOR – Check that the music system is error-free. Door speakers and the subwoofer can break down.
Amazingly, Lexus still has used SC430s that are in good condition. There were seven at the time of writing, with ages ranging from 10,990 to 16,995.
2750-3500 – A collection of partial service history, high mileage (120k) 2002-registered autos.
4995-6995 – A variety of well-maintained 2002-2003 vehicles with 100k miles, the majority with complete service records, and few prior owners.
In This Article...
What was the finest year for the Lexus SC430?
The greatest year for the Lexus SC 430 is 2010, hence prices for these opulent 2010 vehicles range from $19,555 to $25,995. Some will be weekend vehicles with minimal mileage, while others will be everyday drives with heavy mileage. In either case, we wouldn’t anticipate running into any that are damaged or not worth the money.
What is the Lexus SC430’s reliability?
The SC430’s quality is undeniable because of the superb fit and finish both inside and out. It should also prove to be a highly dependable vehicle to own. Despite being relatively new in comparison to its competitors, the Lexus badge is regarded for its high caliber reputation. This helps the SC430’s image as well, despite the fact that, like many of its competitors, it may be seen as more of a cruiser than a sports vehicle due to the curvaceous than dramatic appearance.
Are Lexus SC430 maintenance costs expensive?
Costs of Lexus SC430 auto maintenance and repairs A Lexus SC430 is predicted to cost between $95 and $5739 for maintenance and repairs, with an average cost of $390.
How far can a Lexus LS430 go?
I purchased this car so that my kids would have a second car to drive. I purchased the car for a great price, but after driving it, I almost feel like it’s too beautiful a car for them. Although it may sound strange to say, driving is heavenly. It just screams luxury since it is so very smooth, has great shifts, is quiet, and is powerful enough to handle any task. This vehicle easily has 500,000 miles on it. I intend to keep driving mine for another 20 years because it is a delight to drive. I have an LS 460 that is just as great, but I find myself drawn to this particular vehicle. This car is incomparable to any other on the road, in all honesty. Test it out by driving one.
What Does SC Stand For?
The letter SC stands for “Sports Coupe” in the Lexus lexicon. It might be difficult to recall because it is one of the only models made by the manufacturer without a S or an X at the end.
What Does GS Stand For?
Grand Sedan is intended to stand for “GS” in order to accommodate the numerous varied sizes of Lexus sedans. The GS is a larger sedan for individuals who value space, even though it is smaller than the LS.
When did Lexus last produce the SC430?
Jeremy Clarkson memorably referred to the Lexus SC430 as “the worst automobile in the history of the planet” in the Top Gear evaluation of the Japanese grand tourer. The car’s inadequate power, uncomfortable ride, and dowdy styling were criticized by the hosts. We examine Toyota’s large coupe from 2001 twenty years later to determine whether or not time truly does heal all wounds.
My father owns this same SC430, which I’ve had the pleasure of driving every day for the past two weeks while I fixed a few small problems it was experiencing. I’ve commuted for the majority of that time over modest distances, but I’ve also had to relocate a bass guitar equipment several times and had a few drives that lasted over an hour. I know firsthand what it’s like to share a home with this large coupe.
First, the SC430’s exterior has held up well over time. When it was first introduced at the turn of the century, the styling caused controversy; yet, today, the curvy body largely blends in with other more traditional Lexus models of the time. In contrast to the austere lines of the SC430, contemporary Lexus designs appear overdone and complex. There isn’t even a hint of hostility, and the automobile makes no such promises to the driver either.
The body’s slightly unusual curve caused by the retractable roof is lost when the top is down, but even then, it isn’t so irritating that non-enthusiasts would notice or even assume that it wasn’t a coupe. It is simple to choose between the two choices thanks to the automatic mechanism, which operates without a hitch.
The SC430 feels acceptable in terms of power in 2021. The SC430’s 288hp in 2010, its final year, was unimpressive, especially for a vehicle that was clearly capable of crossing the $70,000 threshold. The Mustang GT, meanwhile, only had 260 horsepower in 2001. Only 290 horsepower were available in the NSX. The SC430 wasn’t intended to be a performance vehicle, but it also wasn’t wholly outside of the realm of modern automobiles. In the end, this is still a V8-powered coupe, so when cruising, passing power is never an issue for those lengthy miles.
This automobile excels on lengthy highway stretches. This car was designed largely for comfort, and it excels in that regard. While the Lexus marketing team must have made the suggestion that this car could seat four with a smile on its face, it is a very comfortable journey for two adults. The craftsmanship of Lexus was unmatched in its greatest automobiles during these years, and that shines through in the comfortable seats and pleasant touch points. On long rides, I’ve felt at ease despite being 6’5″.
When did Lexus stop manufacturing the SC?
The Toyota Calty Design Research center in California, USA, was tasked with developing the exterior because coupe types were especially popular in the North American market. Using organically curved plaster moulds that were then scanned and stretched into coupe-like shapes on a three-dimensional computer imaging tool, the work was started back in 1987 and approached in a novel method. At the conclusion of 1989, the final design received approval.
Almost all of the first-generation SC’s surfaces were curved, with the exception of a single sweeping swage line running down the side. It was immediately recognized as having a significant design, predating many other automobiles that later followed similar organic designs. With a mere Cd 0.31 drag coefficiency, it also cut a clean path through the air.
The new Lexus SC had a front engine, rear-wheel drive architecture, as is common for the class, but it also provided room for up to four passengers.
All four sides were suspended using a newly invented double wishbone system, while higher-end models came fitted with an electronically controlled air suspension. An active chassis package that might lessen changes in the vehicle’s attitude when cornering was furthermore offered. This technology included active four-wheel steering, which managed how the back wheels turned and stabilized the vehicle’s attitude.
The third-generation Toyota Soarer had its introduction in Japan at the same time as the new Lexus SC, which made its US debut in June 1991 as a 1992 model. The launch engine on both sides of the Pacific was the highly praised 4.0-litre V8 powerplant already present in the LS. Engine selections varied significantly depending on the market.
Only automatic transmissions with four or five speeds were ever used with the V8. In Japan, a normally aspirated 3.0-litre straight six joined a smaller but more potent twin-turbo 2.5-litre straight six that was initially available. In 1992, the 3.0 liter straight six made its debut in the US lineup.
The first-generation SC underwent only minimal aesthetic changes throughout its outstanding nine-year production run, a tribute to the durable original design. The implementation of variable valve timing across the board in 1997 (the car shown above is from the 1998 model year) actually represented the most significant modification because it increased the power and torque ratings of all engines. Although the model was never formally offered to the UK market, it is well-known on British roads since many were privately imported.
Which motor powers the SC430?
engine kind (3UZ-FE) displacement V8 3.43 liters (4293 cc) Valvetrain DOHC with 32 valves, Intelligent Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS-i), Intelligent Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS), and Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (U-LEV) 3.6 x 3.2 inches) Bore x Stroke: 91.0 x 82.5 mm
What hues were available for the Lexus sc430?
Outside Colors:
- Definitely Red
- Grey Onyx
- Egyptian Pearl Sand
- Blue Ink Pearl
- Pearly Midnight Pine
- Metallic Millennium Silver
- Pearl of Twilight Amethyst
- Gold Crystal White
Do Lexus issues frequently arise?
Overall, Lexus automobiles are dependable. The Lexus car is well regarded in the most trustworthy consumer surveys, which increases its dependability and toughness. There are reported problems here and there, just like with every automaker. However, Lexus is not just reasonably priced for a luxury automobile but also has fewer problems overall and reduced repair expenses.
Toyota, one of the most reputable automakers and a name known for its durable engines and high-performance handling and steering, is the manufacturer of the Lexus automobile. With vehicles that have strong engines, outstanding features, and fantastic performance from the smallest streets to the toughest motorways, Lexus pushes innovation and design to new heights.
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