In-Depth Review: 2001-2006 [ UCF30 ] Lexus LS 430 **Please consider submitting your car to be reviewed if you live in the Southeast! Other channel: / @craigslistgold It's literally just me looking at craigslist
A friend of mind allowed me to drive his LS 430. After experiencing this car for a day, got accustomed to the smoothness and engineering. By the time I got back into my car, I literally thought my car was malfunctioning, it wasn't.
All of my friends talked so much crap when I was shopping around for my 2005 430. Now they cant believe what a car for the money it is. It is easily the best daily driver I have ever owned.
You are VERY smart to have purchased one. It's my next purchase. I'm gonna do some tasteful upgrades on mine like add blindside detection by a company Vox. I'm carefully gonna upgrade the head unit. I listened to the Mark Levingston and how it compared to newer models and it lacked a bit . I'm looking at sinking about 8k into it so when I'm done I will have the best car in the world for 20k.
2006 UL owner here. Best investment I’ve ever made in terms of a vehicle. Luxurious. Reliable. Underrated power. Out of this world comfort. Old school. To die for. I thought of “upgrading” with a 460. Thank god I didn’t. The profitability for the auto makers on newer cars is tremendous. The LS 430 had very little margin. They do not make cars like that for under six figures any longer. Bag then engineers were in charge of making the cars. Now, it’s the accountants first, then the engineers fulfill that equation as best they can.
How does the air suspension treating you, did you have any issues ? I heard they’re not as reliable as ordinary suspensions. A part from that you’ll have water pump and timing belt to change
BEAUTIFULLY told story of the Lexus LS 430! So much information about what makes this model so special! May I add: Not only did the CEO of Ford own and drive an LS 430, because he considered it the best in the world, but General Motors had bought and taken apart an LS 400 to examine and analyze it and afterward announced and that at the time GM lacked the tools, engineering and wherewithal to assemble a car of this caliber. Hats off to their honesty! Indeed, Toyota, already the most capable car manufacturer in the world, had invested insane amounts of preparation, time, thought, money and effort in the development of both the LS 400 and LS 430. They had something to prove. It showed. I love my 2002 LS 430.
Yes, I remember reading that somewhere about the LS400. GM came right out and said something to the effect of 'we would not be able to produce this car given our current engineering methods and manufacturing processes'. A pretty thorough concession!
My Testimony is this ... I have a 2005 Ls430 which I purchased for $15K in 2015. It had 104K miles when I got it , I now have 213K miles & it still runs smooth to this day with no issues. Very well put together vehicle.
I am one of living witnesses, that you will still see lot of Lexus LS430 still riding along modern cars in UAE. Locals always consider Lexus brand cars (particularly first decade models ) and still prefer driving it over newer models
My 2003 is still clean with 260k miles and still drives smooth. All highway miles drive to the Bay Area everyday and to Mexico once in a while . Never has it left me stranded.💪🏼
@@itzjdub282 after 20 years you either gotta swap them to springs or if you really love your car get new bags. easy to find someone to do it cause its a toyota
This car is very famous in UAE we call it F-16😂, also everyone is scared from those who own this car because all of them drive fast and even drive it on sand and water، don't ask me how😂😂😂
I lived in the UAE for 16 years, I was born there out of 5 cars at least there should be 3 to 4 cars that are lexuses, they are literally the best cars to be manufactured in the entire world.
I have to put this. This is the best car review I have ever seen to date, and I have seen many. I appreciate your efforts to do this car the justice it deserves. I wish I could travel back in time and experience cars from 90s and early 2000s, the level of refinement is incomparable. Keep it up.
Finally, someone describes the way these drive accurately. The engine is heaven. Especially now that everything is a 2.0t and V8s are gone for the most part. Mine is 16 years old, still drives amazing.
By far the best ls430 review I've seen (buying one very soon) and one of the best in depth reviews I've ever seen ! Really hope you get the subscribers your derserve ! Can't wait for more reviews
Avalon’s are niceeee. I have a Lexus ES330 2006 fully loaded same year as this LS430. My parents have the newer LS460. I LOVE all theses cars including Avalon. My brother has a beautiful Solara SLE V6 Coupe.
I remember when this car beat all the Germans luxury cars in a comparison test. Beat the s class, 7 series and all of that. This car was the best luxury car on sale. I think it’s a beautiful design car. Simple yet elegant
They are the best Lexus. But the Mercedes and BMW are built better in Germany. In America they don’t build them as good. I’m German and I love my people always but they need to build their cars here just as good. I love my Lexus LS. I have owned Mercedes and Cadillac and BMW and Olds and Ford and Many more. The best were the old Cadillac 79 used Coupe DeVille which my parents gave me years later when I became old enough to drive. It was excellent. Then a 91 Lumina and it was problem free also to 110,000 miles as I bought it new. The Benz and BMW were great but only up to 70,000 miles. Then trouble hit. My jag xj 8 was great but junk after 40,000 miles. I dumped it fast. And then the Lexus and I love it. It’s one of the best. The new 460s will not hold up as well as the 04 through all 06LS and that’s a fact. And the leather on the newer ones is not as good and there’s too many parts that aren’t quite up to par with my 430. Plus those new four cylinders with turbos are not going to go to 200 --300 or 400,000 miles. They just won’t. I am so sick of these carmakers today because everything looks weird cheap and the same.
I'm watching this because just today, I was shocked after driving my bosses 2004 LS430 today. The car has 240,000 miles and has only had routine maintenance done. I was blown away at how smooth the engine and transmission operated for being 16 years old and 240,000 miles. Needless to say, it piqued my curiosity. I understand Lexus has always been highly regarded but I was just shocked at my experience with the car. Makes me want to buy one now.
An electric car is exactly how I describe the driving feel of this powertrain. You just press the pedal and it has acceleration all the way down to the floor, you just go. I've had my 2006 ML for about a month now and it's heaven
I purchased an 05 LS430 about 3 months ago, and I can categorially say that it is the finest car in a long history of classic cars. Every journey is a joy, and I am starting to invent unnecessary journeys. I have had E Types, numerous Lotus, Caterham, new Jags, a Ford Cosworth, numerous Granada Ghias and Scorpions, and pre war MGs. This aging Lexus Knocks them all in to a hat ! Now that I am pretty old, I don't think I will ever buy another car.
@@Texas_Cruiser All aspects really. It is extremely quiet, has effortless engine power especially when passing slow moving vehicles at any speed, very comfortable seating for all, brilliant sound system. In fact, it drives like a classic Bentley but with reasonable fuel consumption (26mpg average) and without any unexpected problems. They are renowned for their bullet proof reliability, as I am finding two years down the line.
That was without question THE finest, most excellent and superb automobile review that I've ever seen ANYWHERE! I've very recently taken more of an interest in the LS thinking that I'd love to have a 2007/2008 LS 460L, but two friends of mine out of state have LS 430's and I had a conversation with the one in NYC over the weekend and he told me that he's selling his 2003 LS Ultra with 75K miles on it for $6K. I became interested until he sent photos of it sitting like a low rider or a Lincoln Town Car with blown suspension air bags as I didn't know that an air suspension was available on the LS 430 and seeing that instantly made me lose interest despite his claiming that the car had been sitting a longtime and that the battery died and that once the battery was charged, the suspension would rise again. All that I could think of was that pain in the rear Mercedes-Benz W220 S-Class and how ungodly expensive those front struts were (as part of the Airmatic air suspension system) at $1000 (or more) each and what a nightmare in terms of cost and maintenance those air suspensions were in general, and how I wanted absolutely nothing to do with them and that nonsense ever. How I wish the Ultra could be had WITHOUT the air suspension. Thanks for this terrific review, you've helped me to justify returning to V8 car ownership for a fourth time after two Cadillac Eldorado's and a W126 Mercedes-Benz 420SEL as the LS 430 will be eons better than those V8 cars I previously owned with a more fuel efficient V8 than my three previous V8 cars.
I had a 1990 ls400 it was my first car about 7 years ago. I never realized just how reliable that car was I ran it to the ground up until I crashed it and still it never had one issue. It had no breaks I would throw it into park to stop it. I hadn't changed the oil for 20k miles. The engine and transmission and everything just kept going and going
Thank you for doing this car the justice it deserves with such a comprehensive review,. This is my dream car. No one understands why by looking at it. It’s between this exact car or a Tesla, for the self-driving bit and obvious bonus of no fuel/oil costs and associated maintenance. All I need to do is find one for sale from an older couple that had it since new, if I sit in one that still has that pure leather smell, I’ll buy it and know I won’t regret it. My favorite part of this car is it’s vault-like quiet interior. Although you went into significant detail describing this, one nice addition would have been to include some testing of interior noise using a decibel meter. I seem to recall motor trend testing a bunch of luxury cars around this time, the LS430 was #1. It will always hold a special place in my heart. Being a valet attendant for a couple years around 2002, I drove A LOT of cars. This one couple would role through occasionally, I’ll never forget the moment I sat down and shut that door. It was like I had entered a different world. Completely detached from the world in a cocoon of leather, buttery soft everything, and POWER that was so smooth, as you described it’s like a tiger quietly creeping on the prowl, about to pounce for the kill at any moment. Legendary,. Thanks again for this amazing review. I agree with everything you said 100%.
Recently I bought a 2005 LS430 after owning two LS400s over the years. My LS430 is very similar to the 2006 model. My had one owner with 98,000 verifiable miles. It had been taken to a Lexus dealer st the recommended 5000 mile interval. I got it for $9995. Except for some minor scratches its almost perfect. I know I will have it for a long time.
Would you say go for the 430 over the 400? To get deeper into my question...a pretty nice condition lower mileage 98 400 can be bought for $6-$9k whereas the same condition 430 may be $11-$15. Also regarding the 5000 mile intervals, surely nothing has gone wrong at those miles. Are they merely check ups on the cars that Lexus is recommending? Because they will ALWAYS find something wrong to get one to fork out more money. I had a 93 ES300 back in the early 2000s. It disgusted me how much the dealer wanted to nickel and dime me over things like $10 for plastic fasteners and such. You get what you pay for but a rip off is a rip off. There seems to be some inconsistency in parts and service pricing between dealers as well. I'm not knocking on the cars themselves.
Buy some wrenches and watch you tube maintenance vehicles.... If CarCareNut covers the issue... he will over do the replacement parts but still way cheaper than the garage!!! I research it to the hilt then decide!!! @@Texas_Cruiser
I am used to buying new, cheaper Japanese cars, 2018 Civic, 2014 CX-5, 2013 FRS, and 2012 IQ. I sold my Civic with 6k, because I didn't need to drive long distances after retiring from the reserves and bought a 2003 LS430 with 115k, for 6k. I took all of the profit, 6500 after taxes and paid down my mortgage. While a stupid idea financially, my wife complained constantly about the Civic which she would inherent after her biannual accident, which we would probably have to trade in at that time anyway. The main point is, it felt like a major upgrade instead of going from an new car to old. When it is raining, it feels like it is sunny, the car makes me feel confident everything is okay. Cheaper cars would get blown around, not this car, the weight and the power make the puddles on the freeway seem to disappear. I look forward to driving again, like I did when I was from 17-22 (I am 52). There can be noise and chaos going on outside, when the door shuts and the radio is on and the heated, comfortable seats, it is like I am transported from Everett, WA, to heaven instantly.
I take care of an 85 year old woman that purchased this car back in 2006. I never knew how nice this vehicle was until I drove it for the first time. She only has 50k miles on it and the back seat has never been sat in. I enjoy taking her out to in this vehicle and every once in a while she lets me drive it in sport mode on the highway.
Don’t forget the Custom Luxury package having the additional leather on the door panels and dash! Great great review. Best I’ve seen. And these are truly the best cars made..
Wheel dampers are not monotube , the OE is low pressure twintube built by KYB proprietary for Lexus. A monotube damper would not ride as plush as the twintube. I have owned 5 of these and always sell them in favor of a newer big body luxury sedan and find myself always back in an LS430. Current is an 05 modern luxury with 212k!! Rides like one with 12k. Love these things
The 2001 through 2003 cars are twin tube. 2004 to 2006 are monotube. Reference: www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-3rd-gen-2001-2006/464116-edmunds-inside-line-road-test-2004-lexus-ls430.html
I don’t think that data is correct. I have replaced many 04-06 wheel dampers especially for the front driver side strut mount issue that caused the clunking noise. I am certain that they are all twintube. But will leave it there. Either way this is the BEST review of any car I’ve ever seen. GREAT JOB
For the last 6 months, I have been considering a nice luxury car for myself as I prepare to retire. I didn't want anything brand new. I thought I was locked on a BMW 5-Series, and then it was a Mercedes E-Class. I drove a few of the MBs and was ready to buy. Then, I happened to see this video about four weeks ago. As a result, I have a 2005 LS430 with 59K original miles being shipped to me from Florida. I did look at and drive a few of these locally beforehand. The LS430 is the one for me. It is reliable luxury through and through. Thank you for doing this vid Atomic Automobile!
That's awesome! So I'll give you the whole story on this car. It belongs to my uncle. He bought it recently after seeing the video I made on the Lexus LS400 (my own car). After driving Mercedes E-class sedans for almost 20 years, he said that video opened his eyes to what the Lexus LS was. Like you, my uncle bought the car in this video from Florida. He wanted me to mention, in this video, that my earlier video inspired the purchase of this one, but I figured it would be a waste of precious time and a little self-serving. Glad to have another convert, and I hope you find the car to be as good as I have made it out to be! They really are special.
PatrolUnit904 dude I think I know the car you bought. I was a day late. Is it the black on black with the Smokey trim? And 5 spoke wheels? I live in Florida. And the seller told me a retired cop bought it from up north
I still get MANY compliments on my black on black 2005 LS Ultra Luxury package. It is a very classy handsome car; strong and stellar even at 190k miles.
Same. I've got an 06 gs black on black. Lexus of this era somehow manage to look modern and elegant. The ls and gs of that generation ( in my opinion) look alot better than the new respective models
I'd take this beauty over a Benz love this car never age still look as good as new in next 35 years this car has class just looking at it all around a real sleeper.
About to buy my second LS430, I unfortunately got into an accident in my first one. Hands down the best car I've ever had. Even if I won the lottery I'd still have one of these. Here in the UK, expect to pay about half the price you would in the US because of the cost of fuel. But I've ran mine on LPG so running costs are nice and low.
Did you get another one? I got into an accident in my LS400 last year too. Now I'm in an IS250 hoping to get back to the LS line.. the IS is great- however I would trade the sportiness for the comfort. I love the LS lineup.
@@joshc9846 I did and I still have it. It’s not as good as my last one. But mechanically it’s pretty sound. It just failed it’s MOT but just for a brake hose, that’s it.
@@ericdolby1622 hi Eric. I live in the uk and bought my 2006 Ls430 with 120000 miles on the clock for £4300. The car has a couple of niggles like the rear reverse camera doesn't work correctly. However the build of these cars is unbelievable. I have owned 2 Audi A8 and this is far superior. You cant go wrong. I am going to upgrade the alloys to 19"
I don’t believe I’ve ever seen suck a well-written, well-photographed, more comprehensive car review. I particularly appreciated the part where you laid out the differences in trim levels. I’m looking forward to watching your other car reviews. Bravo!
I absolutely love my 460L. But seeing this amazing review on my first favorite model Ls I’m over here dying for one. My dream is to have all the Ls models one day. Best cars made IMO as well.
GHTW GHTW I been having some issues with my car throwing lights from time to time. But they cleared up eventually. Wish it wasn’t doing that but all is well now! Hope you get it fixed.
I bought my 1st ever Lexus 2005 LS430 back in 2016 Father's day, 2 previous owners with only 86K+ miles, I love it every time driving on the weekend, it's so quiet, comfortable and the awesome Mark Levinson sound system, until today...now have 126K+ miles still drive like the day I bought it. Everyone love it when riding in it.
I own an 06 with 90k miles. It's definitely the best sedan I've ever owned (and I'm no spring chicken.) After watching your video I understand why it's so good.
It’s a great car to drive, there are some issues that no one talks about. some parts wear out very quick and are very expensive to buy. I try to list the things that happened to my 05 under 80,000k. 1. Telescope and tilt steering wheel motors 2. Front wheel bearings 3. Rear sunshade 4. Alternator 5. Radiator leaks If you are considering to buy one get someone to check these things by a professional mechanic it worth paying a mechanic to check it out! Also some engines slugs if the maintenance is poor. Thanks for the review.
JAVAD TALEBI I disagree ., mine has 260k miles and got it my self around 220k miles and seen it go before 220k ,. Nothing but rotors, brakes and normal oil changes , this thing still buttery smooth surprisingly only had it since june July
Subwoofer? I bought and 10 year old Avalon about 13 years ago and on the way home I cranked the stereo and sent 6 by 9 paper throughs the back window in Florida.... Garaged parked car..... had it replace before I got back to New Orleans!! lol. some things need to be replaced and we are considering a 20 year old car.... I would probably replace all the speakers with JBL even if it had the Mark Levinson set up.... some maintenance is unavoidable!! New Lexus cost 140K... and far more inferior in my opinion! So if we drop 8 grand to bring this up to original condition! Goal achieved!!! ;-) And punch out another 200k in travel miles!!! @@Jack14432
This is the 3rd car review I've watched of yours. And hands down... you are the absolute best car review channel. Your attention to detail, and ability to explain things is unmatched. Kudos to you sir, your videos are a legitimate treat to watch. Thank you.
Great review. Really provided vivid, detailed, accurate facts that I can relate to. I've kept my eyes on the car over the years and to see you review it in such a manner of transparency. It provides me a breath of relief for my choice. I personally traded in an 07 Chrysler 300c for an 06 Modern package LS 430 with 89k miles on the dash currently about a month ago. I really enjoy this vehicle. So far I've completed an alignment for a very minor pull, not a big deal, however I have a weird clunk when the weight of the vehicle leans in a certain area. I've taken it to a local mechanic who's been in the Lexus business for awhile and states it could be chassis related and an easy fix. He's confident it's not suspension, thank goodness... (No air suspension on this one). I hope its not too terrible.. I really want this car to last me awhile!
Hi Matt, thanks for the nice comments. On the clunking noise, my first suggestion would be to look at the lower ball joints. They are one of the things on the LS that wear out the most often, due to the weight of the car. Mine (1993) were replaced at about 80,000 miles.
@@atomicautomobile8537 Thanks for the feedback! I'll have to look into that if our chassis examination fails! Overall, I still love the ride quality so for now, I made a good purchase :-)
**Friendly update to anyone reading this, my Mechanic confirmed that the manufacturing behind this vehicle was primarily computerized, and they wanted to make sure NOTHING was out of spec, therefore they proceeded to have extremely tight bolts on the chassis that made the vehicle spawn this weird clunk noise. All my mechanic did to stop it was loosen the bolts, and re-tight them. This eliminated that clunk and the vehicle is running like a beauty. Don't hesitate to buy this vehicle!!
DO IT DO IT DO IT!! I just grabbed an 05 LS430 sport edition in December with 124K miles. I absolutely love it. So much so that now that my 2017 Q7 is coming off lease in a couple of months i just picked up a 05 LX470 to replace it!!!
Great video! I just bought a one-owner 2004 LS430 - silver with light gray interior - 130K miles. Everything works, almost new Continental tires. Had a local Lexus dealer do a top-to-bottom look-see and the only thing it needs is the timing belt package done. I love this automobile! My other is a 1979 Ford Thunderbird convertible with less then 28K miles. Between these to vehicles, I'm in auto heaven!!
Agree, great review. As a former mechanical engineer and studied vehicle engineering and owns a 06 LS430 UL, owned a brand new 06 BMW M5 (worst car I ever had). LS430 is indeed the best car ever made, especially the last year model (06), which is the best one of all years. Appreciate almost everything on this car, except the wheels and telescopic steering column. I even get mechanic manuals for LS430, I never done anything like this before. I intent to do bushing, mount overhaul and keep it forever.
Just bought a 2006 LS430, just based on the test drives I've done it's the most amazing car I've ever been in. Gonna be hard to get into any other car after using this as a daily
I'm in Australia and I own a 89 JDM base model Celsior (LS400). I own it only because it came up at the right time at the right price, so I purchased it (almost without seeing it). I knew nothing of Lexus or Celsior, other than the name. I had never even been in a Lexus. The owner just brought it around and parked it on my driveway, leaving it running. It seem to throttle back all by itself after 30 second or so and after talking to the guy for a while, I thought he had turned it off. When he popped the hood I realized it was still running! The owner told me of its few faults and I took it for a drive. It was a 29 year old car (at the time), and it was SMOOTH to drive! It was quiet! We have a nice stretch of hwy close by so I took it for a blast to see if it had issues that would only show up at speed. Close to 250kph (150mph) and it was still quiet (ish) and smooth, and the motor felt strong! I paid him the money before I got back to my driveway! That was 2018, I still own that car and it still hasnt given me ANY grief at all. I have only ever owned 2nd hand cars, so I know a thing or 2 about how cars age and what normally wares out at what stage in their life cycle. Its odometer is not working but shows 290K KM. Its issues? Paint is bad (laquour is peeling off), the A/C does not work (Eventually I'll get around to fixing that), the power steering ACV needed replacing (very common fault) and finally the Console LCD was dead. I replace the ACV and that faulty LCD and its run like a dream with only fluid changes every 6 months ever since. I looked at the rocker cover gaskets. It still has the original style rubber gaskets only used at the factory. I dont thing the rocker covers have ever been removed. It always starts strong on the 8th or 9th compression (done for oil pressure?) and has never missed a beat. I am no end impressed. My next daily will be another Lexus, probably an LS430 and I will store the Celsior (original JDM first year Celsior - might be worth a bit in a few years time now that its technically a Classic). Toyota, that billion you spend on R&D in the 80's was not in vain. Damn guys, you definitely hit a home run with the Engine and all things Lexus/Celsior. Loved your video, and I couldn't agree more with your assessment of the LS430 and early Lexus in general. Its my next daily driver as soon as I can find a good one in Australia (even if I have to fly over to another state to get one). I'm sure my Celsior could last for a long time yet, but Im thinking get the paint and A/C done, then store it or sell it to someone who will appreciate it.
When I was a little wealthy back in 1998 I bought a 1991 LS400 with 37000miles genuine. Used to do 120 miles a day. The salesman said the type of journey I was doing the car would return 30mpg UK and it did just that. The car came with Dunlop D8 tyres. After a few years of body roll I was advised to change to Michlin premicy tyres what a fantastic improvement. Bought for 17500uk 1998 sold for 2500uk 2005 what a great car never forget the experience .
Awesome review, our 2004 silver on black is as perfect as the day it was delivered despite the high milage. I've noticed that LS430 and LS 400 examples in good condition often have higher prices than newer Lexus models with good reason. Your review sums up why as a self confessed chronic car addicted with ten classics in our collection our LS430 is a firm favourite of the fleet by a long shot.
I started looking at the LS430 as the long term car. Something to take me into my retirement (10 yrs if I'm lucky). I found a 2009 LS460 with 11k miles in Oct 2019! Orig. owner. selling dealer maintained. a/c garaged. Total cream puff in unblemished Starfire Pearl! I LOVE MY CAR! The driving dynamics are powerful, quiet and smooth. That's all thanks to its predecessors. What a great way for this car-guy to drive off into the sunset. PS: I'm sitting in the back passenger seat, as I write this. It's comfy back here!
Mine just hit 650,000 miles and all I've done was change the timing belt a few times and regular maintenance plus a water pump. My father bought it originally with 100k miles and it still drives silent
This car is so serene, calm, and confident. Not to mention the unbelievable reliability. I'm not worried about getting stranded somewhere. True, it doesn't have the European flare and performance but I'm not looking for that.
My 2003 ls430 sport suspension with 175k lowered on springs is not quick but is fast specially at highway speeds and a joy to drive, I’m definitely not thinking of getting rid of it anytime soon
Lexus is the only car I can trust buying a first year production car and not worry about it falling apart after 150k miles. Had the 2001 LS430 after the SC400
Very well done! “The relentless pursuit of perfection” was more than a tagline for Lexus - I wish they would go back to that philosophy. I get ill at the thought of an LS with a turbo on it, don’t even get me started about it being a V6.
Well it was coming eventually ... Fuel economy and emissions probably what made them go to that decision ... And it's probably as smooth as the old v8 too
My Uncle and I went to Lexus of Sacramento in April of 2006 and bought a 2006 LS 430 out of their showcase/ showroom for my Grandfather's 86th birthday present, sadly he died just 2 months later with less than 1,000 miles on it, my Uncle had end stage CLL and was no longer driving and my Grandmother had long had her driving license revoked by her cardiologist, leaving me to be the only driver the car has known for most of it's life, today it has 43k miles. I have parked along side the generic LS 430's with no upgraded mica gold paint, no upgraded leather, no navigation or $3,500 Mark Levinson sound system, chromed 18 inch Lexus rims, rear window curtain, my 430has everything except rear reclining , vibrating seats and self parking, I have park assist, my 430 makes other 430's look generic!
Years ago upon retirement from the military I purchased my dream car, a 97 Volvo 850. Within 6 months that was a nightmare, worst piece of junk I've ever owned. Worst than the Pintos I owned as a teenager. I traded the piece of junk in for a 1996 LS400 while at a training class about 300 miles from home. I COULDN'T BELIEVE THE DIFFERENCE, ride like butter and built like a tank. I arrived home rested instead of beat up on the road. Loved that car. Finally sold it to a happy buyer, and purchased a 2011 Avalon, it's not a Lexus but superb gas milage for a big car and excellent ride.
Carl Bradley I could definitely picture that I know my 2006 LS430 makes me feel that every time I drive very relaxing and comfortable it’s like sitting in your living room on the most comfortable sofa and driving 😎
In 1997 I was hit by a car while on my motorcycle breaking my femur in 5 places and broke both wrists . One of the trauma surgeons had recently survived a horrific wreck that should have killed him, he was driving an LS 400, many ER trauma surgeons went out and bought an LS because they saw how the Dr had survived an unsurviovable wreck ion other lesser cars!
I owned the 2005 LS 430 in this exact color combo of White with beige leather... It was a dream car and still my very favorite of all the cars since then...
Great video ! I'm the proud owner of a 2005 LS430 . And I absolutely love it. 87,500 miles on the odometer Silver Metallic paint 18 in sport wheels black interior. I purchase my car In 2009 with 24000 miles on the odometer. I'm the second owner. Service and maintain by Lexus . Low ownership cost and very reliable . Garage kept. I probably will never trade this car. The new LS500 , I'm not loving it yet
@@Texas_Cruiser My over all maintenance cost after owning this car for 13 years is very low compared to my 2012 c300 4matic sport and my 2015 BMW X3. And yes the water pump and timing belt have been replaced. along with spark plugs and hoses. All of my vehicles are garage kept and I'm very meticulous about all 3.
im looking into some LS now. the only "cheap" ones are the pre-facelift base models. the others ... dealerships seem to charge too much. even tho they are fantastic cars.
Loved Toyota/Lexus of 1990-2006. 2007-current can't hold a match to the overall quality and precision of manufacturing. They made the grand mistake of the domestics and Europeans and chased volume over quality. I still see 2nd and 3rd generation LS' on the road and looking in close to new quality. Sure, it wasn't as splashy as a S-Class or Audi A8, in quality and especially reliability, it trounced them all.
Just bought a 01, with 260k miles from the original owner. This thing is amazing! We went looking at a 05 Acura RL with 150k miles...a rough 150k after driving it, my wife saw the LS, we drove it, and we went home with the LS (wife's car) she likes driving it around, just to drive. which she never wanted to do before. This review is very accurate! I want the 18s and have them nickel plated.
Great commentary.... I've wrenched numerous personal vehicles and I've literally hit a pinnacle in life where I think from reviews that this is the best car ever made.... never step into the first model. I guess would be the LS400.... I have owned over a dozen vehicles from Toyota and the my best one is a Camry from this same era!! I've literally put that 4 cylinder to the limit and almost rolled it one night at 100 mph.... on a back country drive! Then gave it to a family after buying a 2020 Avalon Limited Hybrid..... I think Toyota isn't what it set out to be as of date and this car defines the manufactures goals over its lifetime! I sold the Avalon!! I currently own an 02 Tundra access cab with the 4.7 2UZ motor (Japanese made) and I own a 2011 ES350 (Japanese made).... The best cars in my opinion I've owned and absolute pleasure to drive!! And I've owned Mercedes, BMW, and Volvos.... Right year Volvos are amazing.... !!! But Toyota/Lexus really is next level on longevity and performance! At least antiquated varieties!... side note: new Hybrid cars have wheel motors which affect the handling.... the SUVs have intrigated electric motors in the drive train which don't affect the steering like the cars do..... If I was going Hybrid again? it would be SUV and it would be Toyota or most likely Lexus! they're using the same nickel batteries that they've been using on Prius since 2007 in Japan. But the new 4 cylinder turbos in my opinion compromises Toyota's legacy..... Just a late night weekend rant... sorry!! This video was amazing.... you've acquired a passion for engineering and you're not swayed by lines.... creature comforts are important. Wise beyond your years!!!
I have had 3 Lexus LSs I think this is the most beautiful body style. Im 6'5" I drive about 30K miles a year. I will never buy another Mercedes. I just had a bluetooth stereo adapter installed and now love my books on tape!! For an extra touch go on Amazon and buy the Lexus door lights my kids thought that was "Fresh" STOP do no pass Go! BUY THIS CAR!!
my 2004 LS430 Looks like it just rolled out of the showroom. It just turned over 27,000 Miles and I love it ! Unfortunately I have to sell it :( if anyone is interested please feel free to contact me.
A friend of mind allowed me to drive his LS 430. After experiencing this car for a day, got accustomed to the smoothness and engineering. By the time I got back into my car, I literally thought my car was malfunctioning, it wasn't.
Agreed! After that "the Lexus experience" everything else feels cheap!
Outside of the LS 400 it was the Best car ever made.
😂
inquizative44 😂😂😂😂😂
LOL I was thinking the same about my BMW, after driving a friends LS.
All of my friends talked so much crap when I was shopping around for my 2005 430. Now they cant believe what a car for the money it is. It is easily the best daily driver I have ever owned.
You are VERY smart to have purchased one. It's my next purchase. I'm gonna do some tasteful upgrades on mine like add blindside detection by a company Vox. I'm carefully gonna upgrade the head unit. I listened to the Mark Levingston and how it compared to newer models and it lacked a bit . I'm looking at sinking about 8k into it so when I'm done I will have the best car in the world for 20k.
“Friends”
260k miles on mine and still comfy and smooth
HoW is MPG ON THIS CAR
omar flores around 24
I feel obligated to tell you that this was the best car review I've ever watched. Fantastic job, you have yourself a new subscriber!
Thanks, that's really nice of you to say, it always makes my day when I get a comment like this!
We share the same profile picture
@@amd9090 indeed we do
MOST RELIABLE LUXURY CAR ON THE PLANET
I just bought a 2001 LS430 with 125,000 on the clock. Everything works, it's cherry and I got it for $7,000. WOOOOHOOOO!!!!
2006 UL owner here. Best investment I’ve ever made in terms of a vehicle. Luxurious. Reliable. Underrated power. Out of this world comfort. Old school. To die for. I thought of “upgrading” with a 460. Thank god I didn’t. The profitability for the auto makers on newer cars is tremendous. The LS 430 had very little margin. They do not make cars like that for under six figures any longer. Bag then engineers were in charge of making the cars. Now, it’s the accountants first, then the engineers fulfill that equation as best they can.
STEEPPOW my baby is 06. It’s a ride on the magic carpet along the yellow brick road. Jumped on the 460 and jump right back!!
How does the air suspension treating you, did you have any issues ? I heard they’re not as reliable as ordinary suspensions. A part from that you’ll have water pump and timing belt to change
How much did it cost you?
At GM the bean counters have been in charge for decades. Also no innovation - wait til another company makes a popular model, then copy it.
I just bought a 2003 LS430 two weeks ago and have already put almost 2k miles on it, it's quickly becoming my favorite car I've ever owned
My prediction: It always will be.
How’s maintenance on it? Pricey ??
BEAUTIFULLY told story of the Lexus LS 430! So much information about what makes this model so special! May I add: Not only did the CEO of Ford own and drive an LS 430, because he considered it the best in the world, but General Motors had bought and taken apart an LS 400 to examine and analyze it and afterward announced and that at the time GM lacked the tools, engineering and wherewithal to assemble a car of this caliber. Hats off to their honesty! Indeed, Toyota, already the most capable car manufacturer in the world, had invested insane amounts of preparation, time, thought, money and effort in the development of both the LS 400 and LS 430. They had something to prove. It showed. I love my 2002 LS 430.
Yes, I remember reading that somewhere about the LS400. GM came right out and said something to the effect of 'we would not be able to produce this car given our current engineering methods and manufacturing processes'. A pretty thorough concession!
This video just made me buy a 2005 LS430!
Same here, just 2 days ago. Nice 'lume' on the dashboard at night, wouldn't you say? A phenomenal vehicle.
Im subscribers to you!
I subscribe to him too. Excellent channel.
I bet you feel like a King now Jodie.
I knew you’d have a Lexus, after all those Seikos!
My Testimony is this ... I have a 2005 Ls430 which I purchased for $15K in 2015. It had 104K miles when I got it , I now have 213K miles & it still runs smooth to this day with no issues. Very well put together vehicle.
Got my 05 ls430 in may 2019 , 44,000 on the odometer,, at 54,400 now ....I love it,super laidback
The RICKY Shift I got my 05 in April 2019! 148k on the dash, 160k now still riding like a dream.
Wow! Found a gem! Thats realy low miles!👍
Can you please help me find the one too thanks
@@fredwilliams7893 Yea an elderly man who couldnt drive anymore kept it in his garage.. i was looking for 6 months and it pop up on my radar.
Scared that by the time I'll be in the market for one of these...there won't be any good examples left.
This is the best, most thorough, car review I’ve ever seen.
I am one of living witnesses, that you will still see lot of Lexus LS430 still riding along modern cars in UAE. Locals always consider Lexus brand cars (particularly first decade models ) and still prefer driving it over newer models
Kamrul Islam in fact here in the uae they call it the f16
True. I live in Abu Dhabi and confirm. The resale value of those is huge... They're very loved here
My 2003 is still clean with 260k miles and still drives smooth. All highway miles drive to the Bay Area everyday and to Mexico once in a while . Never has it left me stranded.💪🏼
Hey i got a white 03 LS 430 too! Just clocked over 100K the other month, glad to see yours ticking along at 260K, hopefully mine lasts as long!
This car can hit 300k miles easy. My friend 2002 sc430 hits almost 500k miles!
It ran up to 1 million miles
I got a 04’ Ls430 w/ 111k
Where do you guys find these cars with such low mileage?
Best vehicle ever made, my 2001 LS ultra luxury package still looks and drives like its brand new
Yupp I’m sure it does so does my 2006 I’m never getting rid of her she is a keeper 😎
Any trouble with the adjustable suspension?
@@itzjdub282 after 20 years you either gotta swap them to springs or if you really love your car get new bags. easy to find someone to do it cause its a toyota
This car is very famous in UAE we call it F-16😂, also everyone is scared from those who own this car because all of them drive fast and even drive it on sand and water، don't ask me how😂😂😂
Na9er 309 ikr they drive like maniacs
I lived in the UAE for 16 years, I was born there out of 5 cars at least there should be 3 to 4 cars that are lexuses, they are literally the best cars to be manufactured in the entire world.
I live in uae and i own f-16😂
To damn lie man
F16 ✈️
The landscaping goes beautifully with the Lexus
I have to put this. This is the best car review I have ever seen to date, and I have seen many. I appreciate your efforts to do this car the justice it deserves. I wish I could travel back in time and experience cars from 90s and early 2000s, the level of refinement is incomparable. Keep it up.
Best car I've ever buy still driving it until today in 2020
alicope2 same bro
Finally, someone describes the way these drive accurately. The engine is heaven. Especially now that everything is a 2.0t and V8s are gone for the most part. Mine is 16 years old, still drives amazing.
The owner is so lucky to have so much car with the Lexus LS430.
It was exceptionally well kept.
By far the best ls430 review I've seen (buying one very soon) and one of the best in depth reviews I've ever seen ! Really hope you get the subscribers your derserve ! Can't wait for more reviews
Did you get one? If so how did you like it? I'm thinking of getting one as my first car
Feel like a peasant in my Avalon watching this
Don't the Avalon is basically an ls400 lite
Definitely don't sleep on a Avalon a very comfortable car, pretty much a front-wheel drive LS400.
Avalon’s are niceeee. I have a Lexus ES330 2006 fully loaded same year as this LS430. My parents have the newer LS460. I LOVE all theses cars including Avalon. My brother has a beautiful Solara SLE V6 Coupe.
No shame in the Avalon. I really want a 2nd gen one.
😂 hey that Avalon is still a great luxury car to own 👍
I remember when this car beat all the Germans luxury cars in a comparison test. Beat the s class, 7 series and all of that.
This car was the best luxury car on sale. I think it’s a beautiful design car. Simple yet elegant
They are the best Lexus. But the Mercedes and BMW are built better in Germany. In America they don’t build them as good. I’m German and I love my people always but they need to build their cars here just as good. I love my Lexus LS. I have owned Mercedes and Cadillac and BMW and Olds and Ford and Many more. The best were the old Cadillac 79 used Coupe DeVille which my parents gave me years later when I became old enough to drive. It was excellent. Then a 91 Lumina and it was problem free also to 110,000 miles as I bought it new. The Benz and BMW were great but only up to 70,000 miles. Then trouble hit. My jag xj 8 was great but junk after 40,000 miles. I dumped it fast. And then the Lexus and I love it. It’s one of the best. The new 460s will not hold up as well as the 04 through all 06LS and that’s a fact. And the leather on the newer ones is not as good and there’s too many parts that aren’t quite up to par with my 430. Plus those new four cylinders with turbos are not going to go to 200 --300 or 400,000 miles. They just won’t. I am so sick of these carmakers today because everything looks weird cheap and the same.
I'm watching this because just today, I was shocked after driving my bosses 2004 LS430 today. The car has 240,000 miles and has only had routine maintenance done. I was blown away at how smooth the engine and transmission operated for being 16 years old and 240,000 miles. Needless to say, it piqued my curiosity. I understand Lexus has always been highly regarded but I was just shocked at my experience with the car. Makes me want to buy one now.
Right, the LS430 is a sleeper. It rarely gets a second thought or look but it's practically the 8th wonder of the world.
Yupp bro never getting rid of my 2006 she is a keeper 😎
I agree that it is the best car ever made. My 2005 LS430 has only 69K on it. It is a machine of beauty. Thanks for your video!
My silver 2006 LS430 has only 47K miles on it. An outstanding 15 year old , one owner driving machine.
An electric car is exactly how I describe the driving feel of this powertrain. You just press the pedal and it has acceleration all the way down to the floor, you just go. I've had my 2006 ML for about a month now and it's heaven
I purchased an 05 LS430 about 3 months ago, and I can categorially say that it is the finest car in a long history of classic cars. Every journey is a joy, and I am starting to invent unnecessary journeys. I have had E Types, numerous Lotus, Caterham, new Jags, a Ford Cosworth, numerous Granada Ghias and Scorpions, and pre war MGs. This aging Lexus Knocks them all in to a hat ! Now that I am pretty old, I don't think I will ever buy another car.
What makes this one really stand out?
@@Texas_Cruiser All aspects really. It is extremely quiet, has effortless engine power especially when passing slow moving vehicles at any speed, very comfortable seating for all, brilliant sound system. In fact, it drives like a classic Bentley but with reasonable fuel consumption (26mpg average) and without any unexpected problems. They are renowned for their bullet proof reliability, as I am finding two years down the line.
Really appreciate this comment..... as we age... comfort and reliability are exquisite!!! @@chrispritchard4676
That was without question THE finest, most excellent and superb automobile review that I've ever seen ANYWHERE! I've very recently taken more of an interest in the LS thinking that I'd love to have a 2007/2008 LS 460L, but two friends of mine out of state have LS 430's and I had a conversation with the one in NYC over the weekend and he told me that he's selling his 2003 LS Ultra with 75K miles on it for $6K. I became interested until he sent photos of it sitting like a low rider or a Lincoln Town Car with blown suspension air bags as I didn't know that an air suspension was available on the LS 430 and seeing that instantly made me lose interest despite his claiming that the car had been sitting a longtime and that the battery died and that once the battery was charged, the suspension would rise again. All that I could think of was that pain in the rear Mercedes-Benz W220 S-Class and how ungodly expensive those front struts were (as part of the Airmatic air suspension system) at $1000 (or more) each and what a nightmare in terms of cost and maintenance those air suspensions were in general, and how I wanted absolutely nothing to do with them and that nonsense ever. How I wish the Ultra could be had WITHOUT the air suspension. Thanks for this terrific review, you've helped me to justify returning to V8 car ownership for a fourth time after two Cadillac Eldorado's and a W126 Mercedes-Benz 420SEL as the LS 430 will be eons better than those V8 cars I previously owned with a more fuel efficient V8 than my three previous V8 cars.
I had a 1990 ls400 it was my first car about 7 years ago. I never realized just how reliable that car was I ran it to the ground up until I crashed it and still it never had one issue. It had no breaks I would throw it into park to stop it. I hadn't changed the oil for 20k miles. The engine and transmission and everything just kept going and going
Thank you for doing this car the justice it deserves with such a comprehensive review,. This is my dream car. No one understands why by looking at it. It’s between this exact car or a Tesla, for the self-driving bit and obvious bonus of no fuel/oil costs and associated maintenance. All I need to do is find one for sale from an older couple that had it since new, if I sit in one that still has that pure leather smell, I’ll buy it and know I won’t regret it. My favorite part of this car is it’s vault-like quiet interior. Although you went into significant detail describing this, one nice addition would have been to include some testing of interior noise using a decibel meter. I seem to recall motor trend testing a bunch of luxury cars around this time, the LS430 was #1. It will always hold a special place in my heart. Being a valet attendant for a couple years around 2002, I drove A LOT of cars. This one couple would role through occasionally, I’ll never forget the moment I sat down and shut that door. It was like I had entered a different world. Completely detached from the world in a cocoon of leather, buttery soft everything, and POWER that was so smooth, as you described it’s like a tiger quietly creeping on the prowl, about to pounce for the kill at any moment. Legendary,. Thanks again for this amazing review. I agree with everything you said 100%.
No other review can rival this one about this beautiful car👍 great work
I just bought a 2006 ul, snowbird that had to go back to Canada cuz corona virus 180k miles $4300 amazing condition. Love it
Best review of this amazing car on youtube.
Recently I bought a 2005 LS430 after owning two LS400s over the years. My LS430 is very similar to the 2006 model. My had one owner with 98,000 verifiable miles. It had been taken to a Lexus dealer st the recommended 5000 mile interval. I got it for $9995.
Except for some minor scratches its almost perfect. I know I will have it for a long time.
Would you say go for the 430 over the 400? To get deeper into my question...a pretty nice condition lower mileage 98 400 can be bought for $6-$9k whereas the same condition 430 may be $11-$15.
Also regarding the 5000 mile intervals, surely nothing has gone wrong at those miles. Are they merely check ups on the cars that Lexus is recommending? Because they will ALWAYS find something wrong to get one to fork out more money.
I had a 93 ES300 back in the early 2000s. It disgusted me how much the dealer wanted to nickel and dime me over things like $10 for plastic fasteners and such. You get what you pay for but a rip off is a rip off. There seems to be some inconsistency in parts and service pricing between dealers as well.
I'm not knocking on the cars themselves.
Buy some wrenches and watch you tube maintenance vehicles.... If CarCareNut covers the issue... he will over do the replacement parts but still way cheaper than the garage!!! I research it to the hilt then decide!!! @@Texas_Cruiser
I am used to buying new, cheaper Japanese cars, 2018 Civic, 2014 CX-5, 2013 FRS, and 2012 IQ. I sold my Civic with 6k, because I didn't need to drive long distances after retiring from the reserves and bought a 2003 LS430 with 115k, for 6k. I took all of the profit, 6500 after taxes and paid down my mortgage. While a stupid idea financially, my wife complained constantly about the Civic which she would inherent after her biannual accident, which we would probably have to trade in at that time anyway.
The main point is, it felt like a major upgrade instead of going from an new car to old. When it is raining, it feels like it is sunny, the car makes me feel confident everything is okay. Cheaper cars would get blown around, not this car, the weight and the power make the puddles on the freeway seem to disappear. I look forward to driving again, like I did when I was from 17-22 (I am 52). There can be noise and chaos going on outside, when the door shuts and the radio is on and the heated, comfortable seats, it is like I am transported from Everett, WA, to heaven instantly.
I take care of an 85 year old woman that purchased this car back in 2006. I never knew how nice this vehicle was until I drove it for the first time. She only has 50k miles on it and the back seat has never been sat in. I enjoy taking her out to in this vehicle and every once in a while she lets me drive it in sport mode on the highway.
Tay Marshall will she sell it? If so please let me know.
Thanks
Don’t forget the Custom Luxury package having the additional leather on the door panels and dash! Great great review. Best I’ve seen. And these are truly the best cars made..
Wheel dampers are not monotube , the OE is low pressure twintube built by KYB proprietary for Lexus. A monotube damper would not ride as plush as the twintube. I have owned 5 of these and always sell them in favor of a newer big body luxury sedan and find myself always back in an LS430. Current is an 05 modern luxury with 212k!! Rides like one with 12k. Love these things
The 2001 through 2003 cars are twin tube. 2004 to 2006 are monotube. Reference: www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-3rd-gen-2001-2006/464116-edmunds-inside-line-road-test-2004-lexus-ls430.html
I don’t think that data is correct. I have replaced many 04-06 wheel dampers especially for the front driver side strut mount issue that caused the clunking noise. I am certain that they are all twintube. But will leave it there. Either way this is the BEST review of any car I’ve ever seen. GREAT JOB
You may be correct. All I have to go by is a couple of remarks on the internet. Glad you liked the video!
Hey buddy, how do i know if my 2002 ls430 black on black has the leather on door and dash? Where exactly is the leather so i look for it ?
Stellar review on such a monumental car. A must watch for anyone looking into buying an LS, or any Lexus from that era.
Best review I've seen for this car. Great job!👌
For the last 6 months, I have been considering a nice luxury car for myself as I prepare to retire. I didn't want anything brand new. I thought I was locked on a BMW 5-Series, and then it was a Mercedes E-Class. I drove a few of the MBs and was ready to buy. Then, I happened to see this video about four weeks ago. As a result, I have a 2005 LS430 with 59K original miles being shipped to me from Florida. I did look at and drive a few of these locally beforehand. The LS430 is the one for me. It is reliable luxury through and through. Thank you for doing this vid Atomic Automobile!
That's awesome! So I'll give you the whole story on this car. It belongs to my uncle. He bought it recently after seeing the video I made on the Lexus LS400 (my own car). After driving Mercedes E-class sedans for almost 20 years, he said that video opened his eyes to what the Lexus LS was. Like you, my uncle bought the car in this video from Florida. He wanted me to mention, in this video, that my earlier video inspired the purchase of this one, but I figured it would be a waste of precious time and a little self-serving. Glad to have another convert, and I hope you find the car to be as good as I have made it out to be! They really are special.
PatrolUnit904 dude I think I know the car you bought. I was a day late. Is it the black on black with the Smokey trim? And 5 spoke wheels? I live in Florida. And the seller told me a retired cop bought it from up north
@@MONSTERO7 That sounds about right. I hope you found one for yourself!
I still get MANY compliments on my black on black 2005 LS Ultra Luxury package. It is a very classy handsome car; strong and stellar even at 190k miles.
Same. I've got an 06 gs black on black. Lexus of this era somehow manage to look modern and elegant. The ls and gs of that generation ( in my opinion) look alot better than the new respective models
*Ralph, how's the air ride suspension after all these years? Any issues or concerns about repairs or replacing?*
Love my 06 Ultra Luxury. 3k miles till 100k on the dash. Tomorrow will be a year that I brought her home.
Any issues with the suspension?
@ITZ JDUB Eh the back right air strut leaks but the car pumps back up to normal. Been like that for years, never have a problem
I'd take this beauty over a Benz love this car never age still look as good as new in next 35 years this car has class just looking at it all around a real sleeper.
About to buy my second LS430, I unfortunately got into an accident in my first one. Hands down the best car I've ever had. Even if I won the lottery I'd still have one of these. Here in the UK, expect to pay about half the price you would in the US because of the cost of fuel. But I've ran mine on LPG so running costs are nice and low.
Did you get another one?
I got into an accident in my LS400 last year too. Now I'm in an IS250 hoping to get back to the LS line.. the IS is great- however I would trade the sportiness for the comfort. I love the LS lineup.
@@joshc9846 I did and I still have it. It’s not as good as my last one. But mechanically it’s pretty sound. It just failed it’s MOT but just for a brake hose, that’s it.
Just bought 2006 Ls430 today. Cant wait to pick it up on Thursday
How are you liking it? I am getting one also possibly. Is a 2006 with 99k miles for $10K reasonable?
@@ericdolby1622 hi Eric. I live in the uk and bought my 2006 Ls430 with 120000 miles on the clock for £4300. The car has a couple of niggles like the rear reverse camera doesn't work correctly. However the build of these cars is unbelievable. I have owned 2 Audi A8 and this is far superior. You cant go wrong. I am going to upgrade the alloys to 19"
I don’t believe I’ve ever seen suck a well-written, well-photographed, more comprehensive car review.
I particularly appreciated the part where you laid out the differences in trim levels.
I’m looking forward to watching your other car reviews.
Bravo!
i have an '06 SC430. Same engine/transmission as this, but in a 2 door heavy grand touring drop top convertible. Love it.
So True. We love this drive train and just bought an SC 430, and the top goes down almost every week, year round. Time to add an LS 430 to our garage.
I absolutely love my 460L. But seeing this amazing review on my first favorite model Ls I’m over here dying for one. My dream is to have all the Ls models one day. Best cars made IMO as well.
Me 2, I have a white 2010 460 but I do want a 2005- 2006 430
Hell yeah! I got a 07. Get one and someday we’ll have similar cars lol
2006 ls460 here. Love it but my abs pump acting up..
GHTW GHTW I been having some issues with my car throwing lights from time to time. But they cleared up eventually. Wish it wasn’t doing that but all is well now! Hope you get it fixed.
If I ever leave Civics and go back to full-size land yachts, this is high on my list.
The most comprehensive car review I've seen. That's what you want when you watch a car review, imo. And what a car!
this Isn't a review this is a love letter
I bought my 1st ever Lexus 2005 LS430 back in 2016 Father's day, 2 previous owners with only 86K+ miles, I love it every time driving on the weekend, it's so quiet, comfortable and the awesome Mark Levinson sound system, until today...now have 126K+ miles still drive like the day I bought it. Everyone love it when riding in it.
I just bought a 2005 74000 miles my first Lexus I have driven Toyota since 2004 but Lexus IS a step fantastic car
I own an 06 with 90k miles. It's definitely the best sedan I've ever owned (and I'm no spring chicken.) After watching your video I understand why it's so good.
Your channel is gonna explode. You are good
It’s a great car to drive, there are some issues that no one talks about.
some parts wear out very quick and are very expensive to buy. I try to list the things that happened to my 05 under 80,000k.
1. Telescope and tilt steering wheel motors
2. Front wheel bearings
3. Rear sunshade
4. Alternator
5. Radiator leaks
If you are considering to buy one get someone to check these things by a professional mechanic it worth paying a mechanic to check it out!
Also some engines slugs if the maintenance is poor.
Thanks for the review.
JAVAD TALEBI I disagree ., mine has 260k miles and got it my self around 220k miles and seen it go before 220k ,. Nothing but rotors, brakes and normal oil changes , this thing still buttery smooth surprisingly only had it since june July
Gabriel Huanosto it doesn’t mean that before you get it someone didn’t deal with these issues, I forgot to mention also the subwoofer as well.
Subwoofer? I bought and 10 year old Avalon about 13 years ago and on the way home I cranked the stereo and sent 6 by 9 paper throughs the back window in Florida.... Garaged parked car..... had it replace before I got back to New Orleans!! lol. some things need to be replaced and we are considering a 20 year old car.... I would probably replace all the speakers with JBL even if it had the Mark Levinson set up.... some maintenance is unavoidable!! New Lexus cost 140K... and far more inferior in my opinion! So if we drop 8 grand to bring this up to original condition! Goal achieved!!! ;-) And punch out another 200k in travel miles!!! @@Jack14432
@@lanceguinn9807exactly! And u have to pay nearly 90k for something like this brand new
This is the 3rd car review I've watched of yours. And hands down... you are the absolute best car review channel. Your attention to detail, and ability to explain things is unmatched. Kudos to you sir, your videos are a legitimate treat to watch. Thank you.
Great review. Really provided vivid, detailed, accurate facts that I can relate to. I've kept my eyes on the car over the years and to see you review it in such a manner of transparency. It provides me a breath of relief for my choice. I personally traded in an 07 Chrysler 300c for an 06 Modern package LS 430 with 89k miles on the dash currently about a month ago. I really enjoy this vehicle. So far I've completed an alignment for a very minor pull, not a big deal, however I have a weird clunk when the weight of the vehicle leans in a certain area. I've taken it to a local mechanic who's been in the Lexus business for awhile and states it could be chassis related and an easy fix. He's confident it's not suspension, thank goodness... (No air suspension on this one). I hope its not too terrible.. I really want this car to last me awhile!
Hi Matt, thanks for the nice comments. On the clunking noise, my first suggestion would be to look at the lower ball joints. They are one of the things on the LS that wear out the most often, due to the weight of the car. Mine (1993) were replaced at about 80,000 miles.
@@atomicautomobile8537 Thanks for the feedback! I'll have to look into that if our chassis examination fails! Overall, I still love the ride quality so for now, I made a good purchase :-)
**Friendly update to anyone reading this, my Mechanic confirmed that the manufacturing behind this vehicle was primarily computerized, and they wanted to make sure NOTHING was out of spec, therefore they proceeded to have extremely tight bolts on the chassis that made the vehicle spawn this weird clunk noise. All my mechanic did to stop it was loosen the bolts, and re-tight them. This eliminated that clunk and the vehicle is running like a beauty. Don't hesitate to buy this vehicle!!
I appreciate the time gone into this video! Job well done, helped me make up my mind on a new car
Glad you liked it!
Lexus has perfected luxury comfort and reliability and longevity 👌
Stop it CZcams!! Im trying so hard to not buy one of this. Ahhh i been wanting one for awhile now.
DO IT DO IT DO IT!! I just grabbed an 05 LS430 sport edition in December with 124K miles. I absolutely love it. So much so that now that my 2017 Q7 is coming off lease in a couple of months i just picked up a 05 LX470 to replace it!!!
Jason Dinner wow very good choices.
Great video! I just bought a one-owner 2004 LS430 - silver with light gray interior - 130K miles. Everything works, almost new Continental tires. Had a local Lexus dealer do a top-to-bottom look-see and the only thing it needs is the timing belt package done. I love this automobile! My other is a 1979 Ford Thunderbird convertible with less then 28K miles. Between these to vehicles, I'm in auto heaven!!
Agree, great review. As a former mechanical engineer and studied vehicle engineering and owns a 06 LS430 UL, owned a brand new 06 BMW M5 (worst car I ever had). LS430 is indeed the best car ever made, especially the last year model (06), which is the best one of all years. Appreciate almost everything on this car, except the wheels and telescopic steering column. I even get mechanic manuals for LS430, I never done anything like this before. I intent to do bushing, mount overhaul and keep it forever.
Hello why is the 2006 the best one?
@@Eruizelait's the last year model, all reported/known bugs from previous year models have been fixed since the first generation, not a single recall
@@petervan7372 hi, where can one find the manuals? This is super good, them being available!
@@rishi-m some online database at one site, unfortunately forgot which one
@@petervan7372 noted, cheers, will search for them online
Just bought a 2006 LS430, just based on the test drives I've done it's the most amazing car I've ever been in. Gonna be hard to get into any other car after using this as a daily
Yes it is I own a 2006 and never getting rid of her she is a keeper 😎
How's the car doing? I've driven some pretty smooth riding Cadillacs and I'm curious how the 430 feels. I really need to drive one.
Super low drag coefficient. Lower than Corvette. Wind tunnel from bullet train design was used for the LS' development.
I'm in Australia and I own a 89 JDM base model Celsior (LS400). I own it only because it came up at the right time at the right price, so I purchased it (almost without seeing it). I knew nothing of Lexus or Celsior, other than the name. I had never even been in a Lexus. The owner just brought it around and parked it on my driveway, leaving it running. It seem to throttle back all by itself after 30 second or so and after talking to the guy for a while, I thought he had turned it off. When he popped the hood I realized it was still running! The owner told me of its few faults and I took it for a drive. It was a 29 year old car (at the time), and it was SMOOTH to drive! It was quiet! We have a nice stretch of hwy close by so I took it for a blast to see if it had issues that would only show up at speed. Close to 250kph (150mph) and it was still quiet (ish) and smooth, and the motor felt strong! I paid him the money before I got back to my driveway! That was 2018, I still own that car and it still hasnt given me ANY grief at all. I have only ever owned 2nd hand cars, so I know a thing or 2 about how cars age and what normally wares out at what stage in their life cycle. Its odometer is not working but shows 290K KM.
Its issues? Paint is bad (laquour is peeling off), the A/C does not work (Eventually I'll get around to fixing that), the power steering ACV needed replacing (very common fault) and finally the Console LCD was dead. I replace the ACV and that faulty LCD and its run like a dream with only fluid changes every 6 months ever since. I looked at the rocker cover gaskets. It still has the original style rubber gaskets only used at the factory. I dont thing the rocker covers have ever been removed. It always starts strong on the 8th or 9th compression (done for oil pressure?) and has never missed a beat.
I am no end impressed. My next daily will be another Lexus, probably an LS430 and I will store the Celsior (original JDM first year Celsior - might be worth a bit in a few years time now that its technically a Classic).
Toyota, that billion you spend on R&D in the 80's was not in vain. Damn guys, you definitely hit a home run with the Engine and all things Lexus/Celsior.
Loved your video, and I couldn't agree more with your assessment of the LS430 and early Lexus in general. Its my next daily driver as soon as I can find a good one in Australia (even if I have to fly over to another state to get one).
I'm sure my Celsior could last for a long time yet, but Im thinking get the paint and A/C done, then store it or sell it to someone who will appreciate it.
When I was a little wealthy back in 1998 I bought a 1991 LS400 with 37000miles genuine. Used to do 120 miles a day. The salesman said the type of journey I was doing the car would return 30mpg UK and it did just that. The car came with Dunlop D8 tyres. After a few years of body roll I was advised to change to Michlin premicy tyres what a fantastic improvement. Bought for 17500uk 1998 sold for 2500uk 2005 what a great car never forget the experience .
Amazing car!! I had a 2002 Lexus LS430 and I absolutely loved it!!! Great video thank you!! Love the color combo!!
Awesome review, our 2004 silver on black is as perfect as the day it was delivered despite the high milage. I've noticed that LS430 and LS 400 examples in good condition often have higher prices than newer Lexus models with good reason. Your review sums up why as a self confessed chronic car addicted with ten classics in our collection our LS430 is a firm favourite of the fleet by a long shot.
I started looking at the LS430 as the long term car. Something to take me into my retirement (10 yrs if I'm lucky). I found a 2009 LS460 with 11k miles in Oct 2019! Orig. owner. selling dealer maintained. a/c garaged. Total cream puff in unblemished Starfire Pearl! I LOVE MY CAR! The driving dynamics are powerful, quiet and smooth. That's all thanks to its predecessors. What a great way for this car-guy to drive off into the sunset. PS: I'm sitting in the back passenger seat, as I write this. It's comfy back here!
The LS460 is great! Glad you're enjoying it. Sometimes I like sitting in the back or passenger seat of my own car too.
Atomic Automobile I forgot to mention how much I loved your video. Please produce more. You have a great style.
Ppl sleepin on the LS... It's like riding in a cloud
Alexander p YES PERFECTLY SAID I OWN A 2006 Lexus LS430 AND NEVER GETTING RID OF MINES 😎
Mine just hit 650,000 miles and all I've done was change the timing belt a few times and regular maintenance plus a water pump. My father bought it originally with 100k miles and it still drives silent
MidnightRun Japan LEXUS THE BEST OR NOTHING
The LS400 and LS430 are such amazing cars and still look good today. A clean pristine LS400 and LS430 makes modern cars look ugly.
Best review seen for this model, well done. This review sold me on starting to look for a good example. Thank you.
This car is so serene, calm, and confident. Not to mention the unbelievable reliability. I'm not worried about getting stranded somewhere. True, it doesn't have the European flare and performance but I'm not looking for that.
This Lexus IS faster than the Mercedes S430 of that year I own a 2006 and never getting rid of her she is a keeper 😎
My 2003 ls430 sport suspension with 175k lowered on springs is not quick but is fast specially at highway speeds and a joy to drive, I’m definitely not thinking of getting rid of it anytime soon
Lexus is the only car I can trust buying a first year production car and not worry about it falling apart after 150k miles. Had the 2001 LS430 after the SC400
Very well done! “The relentless pursuit of perfection” was more than a tagline for Lexus - I wish they would go back to that philosophy. I get ill at the thought of an LS with a turbo on it, don’t even get me started about it being a V6.
Well it was coming eventually ... Fuel economy and emissions probably what made them go to that decision ... And it's probably as smooth as the old v8 too
My Uncle and I went to Lexus of Sacramento in April of 2006 and bought a 2006 LS 430 out of their showcase/ showroom for my Grandfather's 86th birthday present, sadly he died just 2 months later with less than 1,000 miles on it, my Uncle had end stage CLL and was no longer driving and my Grandmother had long had her driving license revoked by her cardiologist, leaving me to be the only driver the car has known for most of it's life, today it has 43k miles.
I have parked along side the generic LS 430's with no upgraded mica gold paint, no upgraded leather, no navigation or $3,500 Mark Levinson sound system, chromed 18 inch Lexus rims, rear window curtain, my 430has everything except rear reclining , vibrating seats and self parking, I have park assist, my 430 makes other 430's look generic!
Years ago upon retirement from the military I purchased my dream car, a 97 Volvo 850. Within 6 months that was a nightmare, worst piece of junk I've ever owned. Worst than the Pintos I owned as a teenager. I traded the piece of junk in for a 1996 LS400 while at a training class about 300 miles from home. I COULDN'T BELIEVE THE DIFFERENCE, ride like butter and built like a tank. I arrived home rested instead of beat up on the road. Loved that car. Finally sold it to a happy buyer, and purchased a 2011 Avalon, it's not a Lexus but superb gas milage for a big car and excellent ride.
Carl Bradley I could definitely picture that I know my 2006 LS430 makes me feel that every time I drive very relaxing and comfortable it’s like sitting in your living room on the most comfortable sofa and driving 😎
Ford CEO at 2006 was driving 2001 - 2003 model LS ULP lol
I was fortunate to see this with my own eyes true story
In 1997 I was hit by a car while on my motorcycle breaking my femur in 5 places and broke both wrists .
One of the trauma surgeons had recently survived a horrific wreck that should have killed him, he was driving an LS 400, many ER trauma surgeons went out and bought an LS because they saw how the Dr had survived an unsurviovable wreck ion other lesser cars!
For what it is worth, I just bought a 2004 and the Bluetooth works with my iPhone XR. Love the car!
I owned the 2005 LS 430 in this exact color combo of White with beige leather... It was a dream car and still my very favorite of all the cars since then...
Watching this video in 2021 and it's still a beautiful automobile.
Amazing. Great thorough review of a thoroughly well executed vehicle.
This is one hell of a review! Thank you very much
Stunning car! I just bought a 2007 IS today
Enjoy it, I got one too, pearl white and I love it, but i still want a 430
Thanks for another great video!! I have a GS 350 2008 and it is an awesome car. Like you say it does not age!!
I have a silver 2008 gs 350 and I love it.... 👌
Great video !
I'm the proud owner of a 2005 LS430 . And I absolutely love it.
87,500 miles on the odometer
Silver Metallic paint 18 in sport wheels black interior. I purchase my car In 2009 with 24000 miles on the odometer. I'm the second owner. Service and maintain by Lexus . Low ownership cost and very reliable . Garage kept. I probably will never trade this car.
The new LS500 , I'm not loving it yet
How has overall maintenance cost been? I'm sure by now you've also done the timing belt and water pump.
@@Texas_Cruiser
My over all maintenance cost after owning this car for 13 years is very low compared to my 2012 c300 4matic sport and my 2015 BMW X3. And yes the water pump and timing belt have been replaced. along with spark plugs and hoses. All of my vehicles are garage kept and I'm very meticulous about all 3.
@@waynewalker8141 that's good to know, thank you. I'm an LS400 guy and sucker for the AMG Benzs but the 430s have really gotten my attention.
@@Texas_Cruiser I love AMG Benz
My next purchase will be a Panamera gts. But keeping my LS430
I just picked up a 2006 430 with 80k miles for 5k. It only needed a new bumper.
Salvador Luna Enjoy I surely enjoy mines every time I drive 😎
That turning course near the end was impressive.
Some dealers still want you to pay a lot more than you should for this car but it’s a great car
im looking into some LS now. the only "cheap" ones are the pre-facelift base models. the others ... dealerships seem to charge too much. even tho they are fantastic cars.
Loved Toyota/Lexus of 1990-2006. 2007-current can't hold a match to the overall quality and precision of manufacturing. They made the grand mistake of the domestics and Europeans and chased volume over quality. I still see 2nd and 3rd generation LS' on the road and looking in close to new quality.
Sure, it wasn't as splashy as a S-Class or Audi A8, in quality and especially reliability, it trounced them all.
What were the changes of 07 and beyond? I always thought the 460 was of nice quality as well.
Just bought a 01, with 260k miles from the original owner. This thing is amazing! We went looking at a 05 Acura RL with 150k miles...a rough 150k after driving it, my wife saw the LS, we drove it, and we went home with the LS (wife's car) she likes driving it around, just to drive. which she never wanted to do before. This review is very accurate! I want the 18s and have them nickel plated.
Travis Chupco Congrats I know I love my 2006 LS430 and love driving it every time 😎
Love my 2007 ES350 aka ,"Baby LS"! Hope to see review on the 07-12 ES
Ben Ila yes yes! I have 2006 ES330, 2007 ES350, and 2008 LS460. They’re all amazing
Great commentary.... I've wrenched numerous personal vehicles and I've literally hit a pinnacle in life where I think from reviews that this is the best car ever made.... never step into the first model. I guess would be the LS400.... I have owned over a dozen vehicles from Toyota and the my best one is a Camry from this same era!! I've literally put that 4 cylinder to the limit and almost rolled it one night at 100 mph.... on a back country drive! Then gave it to a family after buying a 2020 Avalon Limited Hybrid..... I think Toyota isn't what it set out to be as of date and this car defines the manufactures goals over its lifetime! I sold the Avalon!!
I currently own an 02 Tundra access cab with the 4.7 2UZ motor (Japanese made) and I own a 2011 ES350 (Japanese made).... The best cars in my opinion I've owned and absolute pleasure to drive!!
And I've owned Mercedes, BMW, and Volvos.... Right year Volvos are amazing.... !!! But Toyota/Lexus really is next level on longevity and performance! At least antiquated varieties!...
side note: new Hybrid cars have wheel motors which affect the handling.... the SUVs have intrigated electric motors in the drive train which don't affect the steering like the cars do..... If I was going Hybrid again? it would be SUV and it would be Toyota or most likely Lexus! they're using the same nickel batteries that they've been using on Prius since 2007 in Japan. But the new 4 cylinder turbos in my opinion compromises Toyota's legacy.....
Just a late night weekend rant... sorry!!
This video was amazing.... you've acquired a passion for engineering and you're not swayed by lines.... creature comforts are important. Wise beyond your years!!!
I have had 3 Lexus LSs I think this is the most beautiful body style. Im 6'5" I drive about 30K miles a year. I will never buy another Mercedes. I just had a bluetooth stereo adapter installed and now love my books on tape!! For an extra touch go on Amazon and buy the Lexus door lights my kids thought that was "Fresh" STOP do no pass Go! BUY THIS CAR!!
I recently bought a 2006 LS 430 Lexus. Mine has the silver paint job. When my friends ride in it, they are shocked. The stereo is unbelievable!!
my 2004 LS430 Looks like it just rolled out of the showroom. It just turned over 27,000 Miles and I love it ! Unfortunately I have to sell it :( if anyone is interested please feel free to contact me.
D M how much
@@gabegarcia7779 czcams.com/video/npINvLS-cLA/video.html
The best summary of Lexus LS430 on CZcams.
140k, that car hasn’t even broken a sweat yet