Proudest day of my life 😢 Thanks Adam! Great to meet you mate, and thanks for immortalising my car. I love it and plan on keeping it for many years to come. Cheers!
I'm freaked out. I just watched Rusty from MWC ( I regularly watch you and others ) and this popped up in my feed. And to add, I'm considering throwing down on a V8 2008 lexcus. I'm convinced that we are living in a simulation. P.S , What happened to your old merc ?
I had a head on collision in my LS 430 8 months ago. I firmly believe I am still on the right side of the lawn because of this car. Every thing that is designed to give you the best survival chance worked to perfection. Engine went below the floor, front crumpled up to the windscreen, all air bags went off and the four doors were still able to open as normal. I really miss my LS 430.
@@MalHansonIt is but a machine, but sadly not all machines are built equally! For those of us fortunate to have properly engineered vehicles… it’s not until you have a serious accident, that you sincerely appreciate the “machine” and it’s engineers.
@@SunviAhsan you’d be surprised to know not all Ls430’s are the same,.. I’ve had two LS430’s so far and a gs430 - all completely different in their own
My uncle had a new ls400 when they first come out. I remember him showing it off to us and sitting in the drive way listening to the In the air tonight by Phil Collins when I was in grade 6. I was thinking this thing had the best sound system I'd ever heard in my life. From memory it was like sitting on a couch in the back. ❤❤
On my second LS430 - had an ‘03 custom luxury with 365k miles also a ‘06 Gs430 with 265k and now I’m on my second Ls430 ‘04 that has 255k miles - best cars I’ve ever owned
I think every time I comment on redriven videos I say Lexus. This is because they are very bloody good cars. The LS series is the pick for sensible Lexus vehicles. Great video thanks mate.
Adam, you really don't know what you are doing. You're doing an amazing job by running this channel. As no channel, literally no Aussie channel talks about used cars. They all are into new cars, but you bring back life to these cars. After Donut media's Bumper to Bumper this show is doing such thing to bring smiles on our faces by looking back to the past and possibly might consider buying these again. Good job Adam, love you, and love your channel and love the honest review of Jim too. Keep up the good job guys 👍. Love you all ♥️♥️♥️
Purchased a 2005 with only 40,000 miles from an original owner. Drives like new and not a single issue after one year. Can sell now for more than I paid for it - but there really isn't any other used luxury car I would ever entertain buying considering how reliable these are and how cheap they are to repair. Oh, and they are as good as any used S Class or 7 Series, if not better.
yep , and that's what it comes down to each and every time , what else is out there ? ? ( here's the bit where you start thinking and fade out / then come back blank , without an answer )
Always thought the early 2000s honda legends were supreme at a fraction of the lexus cost. All these cars are somewhat grandparish, yet the older you get, the more you appreciate luxury over a commodore/falcon with a cheap exhaust and alternative tail lights.
All my closest mates are planning overseas trips or extravagant parties for their 50ths. Just discussing this last night, they asked me what I'm planning. A few thousand km boys trip in an LS430 or a Century was my answer.
The reliability, durability and longevity of this specific LS430 are second to none so far. Besides, its refinement, quietness and quality are the best and none of its German and other Japanese competitors are up to the par. That's why its asking price is still strong compared to its same year rivals.
The LS 430 is a nice car, yet I am not a big fan of the front end, although the front got better toward the end of its run. I have a 2009 LS 460 and a 1991 LS 409 amongst my collecton, and i enjoy them both.
I'm the 2nd and proud owner of a 2002 Lexus ES300 with now 183k miles. Awesome car and 2nd to the build quality to these LS430's. I'll be retiring in 4 years and finding one of these in great condition might be on my bucket list. preferably a unmolested one owner, garage kept with low mileage. drawbacks are expensive Brake jobs & optional air suspension. No German cars. they become empty $ pits after 5 years and/or 50k miles. I'll see what the future brings.
@@tasmaniancaptain7768 bought my 1 owner 2002 ES300 3 years ago w 160k miles. About to turn 184k miles. I do my own Synthetic oil changes every 5k miles. Replaced the timing belt and water pump 2 months ago (original was replaced at 88k miles by original owner). Car will outlive me ! There is one on RU-vid posted about 4 years ago with 596k highway miles on original engine and transmission. Search for it. Amazing car. Build quality is Amazing
@@tasmaniancaptain7768 i paid about the same 3 years ago. i have replaced many 20 yr. old OEM parts since then, majority over the 1st year of owning it. Build quality is amazing, to get 20 years out of a starter, alternator and AC compressor is proof of this. the rear struts were leaking when i bought it, had them replaced with one notch below Lexus parts quality. the AC compressor had a slight noise to it, it was just a matter of time before that went bad so i had that replaced too shorty after buying it. Replaced the exhaust flex pipe, it started to rumble so i changed i had replaced before it got worse. Also, late last year the front brake calipers started to freeze up, had them replaced. I have put more $ into it than what i paid for it, but i'm not complaining. The durability of this engine & transmission is great. There is one on YT posted about 4 years ago that had almost 600k highway miles still on its original engine and tranny. WIll be keeping this one for until the wheels fall off.
Just want to add - the 6 speed in the facelift version has some issues, I have the same transmission in my GS430. The solenoids are known to go out first of all. And the cold solders in the ECM can cause issues with shift harshness too. It uses Toyota “lifetime” fluid, which is complete bullshit. If you get one, change the fluid asap as it’s likely filthy.
Wife and I had a SC430. One of the best daily drivers ever. Put 210,000 miles on it, only ever did routine maintenance. Only issues were door actuators and the mirror motor. Seriously looking at buying another one!
Not watched the video yet. I would have to agree that this is the best car ever made. So much so that I never recovered from the sale of my 2004 Navy over cream LS430. I've had cars costing 10x and they simply aren't as great as the last LS430.
I drove my old boss’s company LS many years ago. Unbelievably quiet inside as shown in the video, it just needs reiterating how quiet it is. It would never be my go to car but it’s crazy luxury if you can overlook the grandad interior.
I bought my 2004 LS430 last August off a respectable lot with 141K on it. Dealer gave me a great deal. Twenty years on a Lexus doesn't spook me. I found my 1991 LS400 in 2004 with 161K on it and I drove it to 350K before letting it go - same engine, drive train, everything, but repairs became expensive. My LS430 has impeccable maintenance records and has been a dream to own. And yes, when you close the door all outside noise is eliminated. Thunk. Gone. It's remarkable. No regrets.
Great review, had one for 8 years. Over 415000 km when sold and everything still worked. Sold it over a year ago and see it’s for sale again in gumtree at a dealer.
Before I even started watching this video, my answer is "yes". This car will outlast humanity ❤. I drive a 2011 Maybach 57s and am impressed with anyone who drives a Lexus. Full stop.
Nice car but being german there are electric issues no one can fix and 20L per 100kms if your lucky of 98. Ouch. Apparently terrible to drive designed only for the rear seat. Wouldnt even let reviewers drive it. And it died with abysmal sales. Nice rear though right up there with an lexus ls. Although a champage bottle and flute holders would be nice in the ls
The top of the steering wheel is not cracked on this one. Maybe the first one I have seen in good shape. I had 3 facelift LS430s. Common problems are broken cup holders, tilt/telescope motor failure, the steering wheel cracking, valve covers leak more easily than in other cars, subwoofer foam needs repaired, and some small misc things. Nothing critical tends to go wrong.
Great review Adam and Jim. Was after a classic a few years back and was looking at the LS430 and LS460. Ended up buying a LS460 which has been bulletproof. Might have chosen the 430 if I’d seen this when I was making the decision! Thanks again 👍🏻
I own and love one in the exact colour combo. Seriously the best car I have ever owned in 25 years. Keep up the general maintenance and they are bulletproof proof.
I have an LS 430 2001 ultra premium luxury package same as video. I noticed my engine was starting to make a noise a bit of a droning, whining sound, but quite soft. I thought. Oh, that’s the water pump. I went to the mechanic, said yup. My mileage is 199,526, it’s a 20001, original timing belt, water pump, pulley. 23 years 200,000 km original equipment just so you know. It’s scheduled on 21 July, 1500 bucks. kit is 350 bucks. It’s the labour. I got two new mufflers couple years back because the aluminum heat shield corroded the muffler top. All in all a fantastic car. I bought it for 23,000 in 20008. Saw a 2010 LS 460 L all-wheel-drive executive seating package TV between the seats like brand new. Bought it 2020 for 30 k Canadian, 98 k, km. I’m glad I never traded away my 430. I still love driving that car.
I’ve got one 2005 could be for sale in the Essex area, VG condition top spec car ( ultra Luxury ) Everything Works, motoring in silence A very spooky experience.. my RR wasn’t this comfy or quiet …
I DID buy a 20-year-old LS 430 off a lot last year. Reputable dealer had 2 white ones - a 2004 with 142K miles and chrome wheels and a 2005 with 162K and machine finished wheels. I got the 2004 because it had an unimpeachable service record. Miles on an LS don't intimidate me. In 2004 I bought a LS 400 off a lot with 161K on it and I drove it past 400K with same drive train. Was still smooth, but repair costs were getting too high (most of those years maintenance was 0$). In my 2004 when you get inside and close the door the world's sounds cease. It's like a vault. Levinson sound system doesn't work but that's not a deal breaker. It's quieter than my living room and even when I get on it accelerates like a missile with very little sound. Very delighted. This car and I have a long way to go.
I’ve owned one of these cars for three years now and love it. I’ve just learned that I have underseat drawers in the front AND a fridge in the back seat!!!
A beautiful car no doubt Adam! The Japanese luxury arm have nailed it over many years mate. Funny how you mentioned Jody initially. I thought to myself “I wonder?…” 😂 As an avid, ok obsessed watch collector enthusiast, there could only be one Jody. Just on that too Adam, I always check out the watch your wearing in each episode & I have worked out you must have a few yourself!👍🏼😎
19:10 not sure who told you these water pumps often leak THEY DON’T!!!!! Not a common problem at all. Also u are wrong about oil consumption in high miles. These cars even at sky high miles do NOT suffer from oil consumption whatsoever.
20yr old car be prepared to invest some money on repairs original Lexus parts are expensive! I've just spent over $5000 USD on my 2005 LS430 Timing Belt, Struts, A-Arms and New Tires. Now it drives like a dream I luv my LS430 😘
My daily driver is a $4000 beater with 220k miles. Only thing is it is an LS430 that is absolutely cherry and has a maintenance history from the day it was sold.
Comes from an era where Lexus slavishly copied Mercedes design cues. Look at the rear 3 quarter view at 20.31mins. When they didn't the Japanese design was bland or awkward.
Short answer : Yes Medium length : Yes, you should Long answer : Yes, you should absolutely buy a 20+ year old car, that is, in everyway better than the stainless steel dumpster fire that we call modern cars
As a long-term LS430 owner I concur with everything covered in this review. I’d add a couple of other points to round things out. It looks as though most of the test drive was done in urban conditions, the LS however truly excels in long distance intercity trips, the further you drive in a day the more impressed you become with the comfort and prowess. 1000k days are actually quite stress free! Additionally the highway fuel consumption can be amazing considering it’s a 20yr old V8, 400 k round trips to Sydney from country NSW usually see me getting sub 8L/100k, sometimes 7.5! My total average over the past 120,000k is 10.2L/100k, now admittedly it is very highway biased but I can say that’s way better than our RX350. Interiors are excellent and even cars with 300,000k will look great provided they have been looked after, the black leather seems to hold up best. Paintwork wasn’t mentioned, it should be as the quality on the LS models is superb, maybe not quite as good as the Century but definitely way better than most other cars. The ride/handling compromise is top class but the ultimate in ride comfort is the later LS400s. I own a mint 96 LS400 and whilst it lacks the handling precision of the LS430 it is definitely one cushy mobile lounge chair. I suspect a wheel/tyre combo the same as the LS400s would result in the LS430 having a similar level of plushness with most of the handling still intact. Lastly, would I buy a Toyota Century instead? A good chance, it’s the only other car I have seriously considered. My only real concerns with the Century are the highway fuel consumption (I just haven’t seen any real world info on that) and the reliability/cost of the air suspension. I expect the Century would be more like an LS400 on luxury steroids.
Tough call as to if I'd go this or the Century. I think the Century takes it by a whisker but it is tight. Definitely didn't expect yoda to do the safety overview in today's video lol I will admit the fact that it looks a bit geeky, as you put it Adam, makes it more of a sleeper than a lot of its competitors. As always guys you've done a bloody good job with this video. Also keep up the good work and look forward to next week's videos as per usual 👍.
Great story guys, the LS is a superb vehicle, even though the looks are a tad plain, I would be thrilled to own one. But I will stick with my Volvo S80. Cheers
Before I bought my sc430 I drove a couple of these. They are great, if I could have bought 2 cars I would have one of these as they are extremely impressive and great to drive.
The later model Mark X 350S is such an underrated car. They look smart too. There’s a video on RU-vid here where one takes on the FK8 civic type R and a couple of others: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-gX4VqSw0zac.html I like the LS430 but there’s so many ropey slammed out ones around.
2005 Grey LS430 owner here. I'd planned to sell the car now we're about to become empty nesters as the 430 is much more than we need. Perhaps switching to the GS430. After watching this you do have a point. It is possibly the best car ever built. I mean anything else I get after a 430 is always going to a lesser car. Hmmm. Maybe a rethink is needed and we just have to forget that there's 2 back seats albeit extremely comfortable ones.
2011 F10 BMW, apart from a $990 nz replacement rear door handle that shut the car down and the fact that I daren't drive it in the wet because of the electrics....it's great
If you can find one in decent shape for sensible money. Yes, they are great cars and they'll never build one like it again but they built a ton of them and attrition hasn't really claimed too many of them. They're also not like a BMW E36 where everyone is turning them into drift cars or race cars so finding a decent unmolested example is now hard to do and will only get more difficult in the coming years, although I actually would love to see someone totally strip one out, cage it, give it a good suspension and turbo the thing. It still wouldn't make it a good race car since it's still gonna be pretty heavy and just large in general, so autocross is out, wheelbase is too long. Again though it'd still be really cool. Oh and even though most are already overvalued the price just went up again. Any time a RU-vidr compliments a car everyone that has one suddenly thinks they've got the next air cooled 911.
I'd love one. But the road tax alone for one of these in Ireland is ... AUD$3,000 annually. Insurance would be another AUD$1,500. I'll have to wait until 2034 until it becomes a classic car for car tax purposes. Then it will cost AUD$91 annually. That is totally doable :)
As one of the few (one of the very very very few) who when given the choice, instead of the Lexus, went to the Darkside and chose the Infiniti Q70... let me say, I absolutely love my car and do not regret my choice... but i do have some serious features envy right now 🤣
