250K mile '97 Lexus LS400 with NO maintenance AND it's still running. What does the CAR WIZARD find?

[@CarWizard]

Use code CARWIZARD50 to get 50% off your first Factor box at Factor75.com

[@surferdude4487]

This car did have brakes, tires and oil changes. The serpantine belt was old but it was not cracked or failing. valve cover gaskets are not normal maintenance items, but i would have them replaced as soon as they start leaking, same goes for main seals. As far as I can tell, the only maintenance item that was NEGLECTED was the timing belt. That's serious and it could destroy the engine, but this car does not seem neglected to me. as for the bushings on the sway bar: I had my vehicle to the dealer for inspection at every oil change. I follow through with all recommended work, but it wasn't until the car had to be re-certified because I moved to a new province that anyone told me the bushings were shot. I don't do my own work. If the mechanics that do work on my car don't do their job, something just might be overlooked.

[@pauli6043]

Totally cracking me up to see you endorsing meal plans! Gotta love KZbin

[@ReaganThatcher]

You get rid of the bus? Haven’t seen a vid on it in ages

[@surferdude4487]

@@ReaganThatcher We haven't seen a vid on the 308 for a while either.

[@Beer_Dad1975]

You have a beautiful kitchen Wizard!

[@risinbison1106]

I had a LS 400 as a third car. I just couldn’t get rid of it because it always started, was an excellent highway cruiser and just wouldn’t die after 375k miles. Finally a construction truck took it out but I walked away without a scratch. Thing was a battle tank.

[@Blakecryderman7244]

@Risin Bison they are AMAZING cars. One of the BEST 90’s cars of all time, top 5 FOR SURE.

[@zakmoon7065]

Proud Lexus owner here! and I can say that nothing beats the quality build and long term performance of my 2005 ES330!!! Amazing car

[@hugostiglitz8465]

Lexus LS series- Best built cars ever made.

[@sinazahedinejad7007]

same over here, got in very bad accident in winter and totalled the car, without any scratch .,got 430 after that, but sold it and came back to 400,its something else

[@Michel-Graillier-fanclub]

Chances are cars won't last over 300k because there's always a lady who's gonna rear end it and destroy the cars frame

[@m3chan1zr]

Even if it’s a $4,000 repair, I would say it’s worth it if it’s a long term keeper.

[@f2john]

Exactly. The most overbuilt car of all time. Spend that money now and know you have something that will still last another 200-300k miles and still be more reliable than most newer stuff.

[@igeekone]

Exactly, $4k is nothing if you can get another 20+ years out of the old girl.

[@mikenyc1589]

Suppose he bought it for $1000.......its a no brainer to fix it unless there's engine damage

[@m3chan1zr]

@@mikenyc1589 I’d say it’s worth it even if he paid $3k for it if he decides to keep it for a few years or even puts another 100k-150k miles on it and then gets rid of it.

[@jasonbeedon9867]

Yes!!!

[@hokie9910]

I had a 91 LS400, at 315k miles it had a misfire. Original spark plugs. How did I know they were original…they had Japanese writing. Unbelievable machines.

[@xFactoryUSA]

My 93 had its original spark AND headlight bulbs. I’ve had many many 90s Lexus and Toyota and never seen the BULBS still going 🤣

[@m3chan1zr]

@@xFactoryUSA my 1990 Toyota pickup has the original headlight bulbs lol

[@heiner71]

@@xFactoryUSA Mine is still going on its original gas.

[@jsun3117]

That's amazing. This is before iridium and the plugs had duel grounds on them?

[@rhark25]

@@heiner71 today, you win the internet! :)

[@2006gtobob]

This is absolutely THE car to do a complete and full service on. To the owners, please maintain, and cherish it now that its yours. Lexus doesn't make cars of this caliber anymore. They still make great vehicles yes, but THIS ONE is worth bringing back to life. I am sure very good seats and an arm rest can be found and swapped. Please please let the Wizard and his crew do their magic. It'll be worth the cost.

[@mds2465]

That car is absolutely 100% worth fixing up everything and making it ride and drive like new again! I bet after you guys are done with all the work on it that the car will last another 250k or 26 years! They really are that great of a car all around!

[@68pishta68]

I read that the 1UZFE engine had more money in R&D than the Apollo space program did.

[@DavidSmith-fr1uz]

My objection to fixing it up would be finding parts. Especially body parts. I have this car and the front bumper is not produced by anybody any more.

[@jadjuk]

Great video, I had two LS 400s '92 and '99 in the past 20 years until a truck totaled my last one. They are built like luxurious tanks. I would do the maintenance on this one in a heartbeat and go another 300K.

[@Michel-Graillier-fanclub]

Suvs, pick ups and trucks are major damage inflictors, destroying cars and killing ppl.

[@charliesmash]

That truck did you a favor

[@craigjorgensen4637]

So, the winner here is the original owner who managed to spend near nothing on maintenance. Had he spent all of the dollars that he should have he really beat the odds! One could certainly argue that he threw the dice and won big time!

[@miggyontiveros2394]

Way better of a gamble than spending 60k on a new car these days only for it to die on it's way to 100k miles

[@8avexp]

I call it pushing your luck. Maintenance? What maintenance? I thought it was maintenance-free!

[@paulsz6194]

The lexus service dept must have hated customers like these...never return after their first ( complimentary) service...

[@zachhull6598]

@@8avexpthat trans fluid is definitely not older than 30k miles

[@8avexp]

@@zachhull6598 Agreed.

[@fireguy615]

I have a 2000 GS400 with 200K miles and its just clearing its throat. When I say this thing is built like a bank vault, its true. '90s and early-2000s Lexus were the pinnacle of the brand and I'll die on that hill.

[@hokie9910]

Do the maintenance he recommends, full detail, and new leather on the seats. Yes you’ll spend some money but now you have a classy car that will go a very long time. These cars are actually starting to appreciate in value as well.

[@DavidSmith-fr1uz]

I don't know about spending that amount of money. I have a 97 and the problem is finding body parts. I know from experience. I still have a messed up bumper on mine. They're not made new and, a used one needing work, if you can find one now, is about $400.00. I am sure this is true for other parts on the car.

[@alcoyot]

My family gave me a 04 accord that had minimal to no maintenance. Initially it was 3k to get it in road shape and then another 2k in the coming year, after the next couple years I spent maybe up to 5k fixing various things. It was a free car for me tho. What that experience told me, was to NEVER neglect maintenance, and I made a vow to take extremely good care of any car I get moving forward.

[@felixbaum48]

Hi Wizard! The early 1UZ's are non-interference (stock), and the later ones (VVTi) are interference motors.

[@rosscullen531]

And they have the big rods for the boost .....

[@emilsezerins3126]

89-94 (ucf10) would be non-interference, 95-97 (ucf20 pre-facelift) have no vvti and are interference engines due to upped compression.

[@adrianlastname4864]

​@@emilsezerins3126 this is correct

[@zactormak]

so the vvti is the gs400 98 motor right

[@fastfingers1957]

@@zactormak Yes. I have a 1998 GS400. vvti & Interference. I've just done my 2nd timing belt @ 230k

[@lordchaa1598]

I had an 89 Acura legend that had 487k miles. The only major maintenance was replacement of the wheel bearings at 375k,it was my grandfathers car, it took me as a punk 16 year old to finally destroy it, during the Fast and Furious craze in the early 2000’s. It was a formidable machine to be sure.

[@honkhonkler7732]

That movie was literally the worst thing to ever happen to the used car market aside from maybe cash for clunkers. Butchered so many manual Civics, Integras and first gen Neons. Cheap, poorly installed body kits and fart cannons make me want to vomit.

[@jakemathers366]

Haha Mrs wizard I enjoy your interior reviews. I started using some of the way y’all do inspections in my videos for work inspections that we spend to customers. Keep it up y’all. It might take a few extra minutes but customers do enjoy to know about the vehicle the own and drive

[@greatmoose17]

I just bought a 04 4Runner SR5 with the 1UZ FE 4.7 v8 with 225,000 miles. Original timing belt as well. Came from Tennessee so minimal rust. May 25th it gets a new timing belt. This beast will be saved and run for another 225,000 miles.

[@agostinodibella9939]

It’s amazing how well that car held up with so little maintenance!

[@RichardCWard]

We own a 1999 Lexus LS400 and it has 83735 miles. Have owned it since 2008 and 45645 miles. Have maintained and serviced this car regularly every 3000 thousand miles. Just bought new tires ($818). Also have had a new starter installed, new serpentine belt, heater hoses, coolant hoses, manifold gasket set. This was all done in 2018 at 75051 miles. My mechanic will be retiring soon and we will be searching for a new mechanic. Plan to continue driving this car.

[@roscoecoltrane6867]

‘3000 thousand miles’…wow! That’s 3 million miles!

[@jadjuk]

I had one before it was totaled in a crash. Great car at over 250k.

[@kcgfy81]

You havent cracked 100k why do you need to search for a new mechanic? You have another 100k miles to go before you have to worry about that.

[@kblinn68]

this car is worth spending the money on for all the maintenance needs.great car!

[@raymonddelacruz846]

100%

[@wicky383]

I'm a Toyota guy through and through. Wrenched at GM back in the day. I can say I've seen plenty of late 90's early 2000's Pontiac/Buicks with over 200k, and they were pretty neglected. Had an 01 Bonneville I bought in 2011 with 188k and ran to 250k before I sold it, but yes the Yota's almost always make it there in much better shape!!!

[@infidel66687]

My 05 Monte Carlo with 3800 is at 245K right now. The body will rot out to unusable before the engine goes. I bought a new car but use the Monte Carlo when it rains or if there is snow or salt down. Missouri weather.

[@addicted2bass87]

I agree 100%. Pretty much anything 3800 powered can make it to 200k or more even with spotty maintenance. My 01 Regal GS was at 234k miles when I stopped driving it due to extreme rot. Original drivetrain. The only major things it ever needed was intake manifold gaskets and a fuel pump. Wizard has talked highly of LeSabres and the GM 3800 in general in other videos. So I'm not sure why he trash talks them in others.

[@Mabeylater293]

Original starter and alternator?

[@infidel66687]

@@Mabeylater293 original alternator. Starter went out at 220K.

[@bumpy24]

Gm cars are throwaway cars, you use them for maybe 100-200k miles then you junk them

[@Broadback3504]

We love your interior reviews Mrs. Wizard! 🎉❤🎉

[@CarWizard]

Use code CARWIZARD50 to get 50% OFF your first Factor Box at FACTOR75.COM!

[@raymonddelacruz846]

I’m willing to bet that after all the maintenance items are addressed that car will go another 250k no problem

[@hugostiglitz8465]

Lexus- The best there is by far.

[@1998MonroeNYColonial]

I guarantee it will still last many more miles. These Toyota/Lexuses can last a long time even if certain maintenance is neglected like this one. These were engineered very well and everything was very well thought out when designed.

[@AerialDevKrk]

Lol skip the interior review?! I really love them! I love to see how the interior pieces are kept and Mrs Wizards voice makes me feel comfortable 👌

[@snoopergnar3719]

Mrs Wizard sounds like she’s welcoming passengers aboard with her interior reviews. She rocks!

[@twentyrothmans7308]

Mrs Wizard is fantastic, and I look forward to her commentary every time.

[@joeywiegand6204]

Me too! It would not be the same kind of review without her thoughts and comments on the interior 😄

[@MattExzy]

I always stay watching for the interior reviews as well.

[@frankkeel8410]

And if the motor blows leaving the garage?

[@MalJannie]

Nothing against her, but I usually skip past her part. I don't specifically enjoy her presentation style. I know a lot of you do though

[@mattbrown5511]

All the videos are great all the way through. The interior reviews are just as good as the mechanicals. It really shows me what I like and dislike in an interior of a model. As for the LS400, they look good and are easily one of the best cars ever made.

[@turquoisecat761]

It's definitely been serviced, not sure why the title states otherwise. That engine oil 6:34 and trans fluid look fine.

[@tylough]

It's a click bait title. The video description says regular oil changes.

[@paulkaz2127]

Yeah, he is playing us.. well not really us. The engine oil and tran fluid are fine. Oil is at about 3k miles or less and the trans probably 10k or less. I do 3k oil and 10k to 30k trans.. so I see what mine looks like at those milages and earlier by checking often... and no, you can not buy my car.

[@spooderdoggy]

@@paulkaz2127 Playing you? Really? It all comes down to our definition of maintenance. Wizard is looking at “complete maintenance”, meaning all of it along the way. Appears you think maintenance means the bare minimum, oil changes, tires, brakes, battery, and air filter. I don’t know of a car on the planet with a 250K change interval for a timing belt, spark plugs, and plug wires. The former owner lucked out, especially on that timing belt. Sorry, I would not buy a used car from you. 🤔

[@paulkaz2127]

@@spooderdoggy what the hell are you babbling? There are maintenance intervals from the manufacturer. What are you on about 250k mile belts? Did you see a 250k belt somewhere? You got played. He said No Maintenance in his title. The belt was likely changed twice. and is due again now. Dude stop being such an impressionable follower. Gather and use data critically. Good luck. BTW no one is lucky enough to buy one of my cars. They last forever. 91, 98, 2001.

[@spooderdoggy]

@@paulkaz2127 It’s always about context. Do you know the context of no maintenance? So, no more babble than you. I have learned much from Dave. I have learned nothing from you.

[@KeithWeast]

I have had a similar experience with my 99 LS400. I bought mine from my uncle who did not neglect the car at all but age finally caught up the moment it was in my hands. VVTi solenoid, shortages, diff fluid, timing belt, lateral arms, wheel bearings, tires, struts, strut bar, breaks, calipers, valve covers leaking, rights side of the stereo goes out sometimes, camshaft position sensor, exhaust leak so bad it wakes up neighbors starting it late and night and early morning, drums breaks disintegrated, dead battery, This car cost me 2500 and after 2 years I'm past $10,000. The LS400 is a toxic relationship, in deep deep love when its working and complete hate and regret when it's broken. All I have to say is if you want to own one, take 2 hours to inspect every inch of the car because all of them are getting to 25 years old and older. Father time destroys all and non are safe. My uncle sold this to me thinking it would be drove into the ground, I wish he knew I was willing to put money into it, and I wish I knew how much.

[@funkycarlover]

I could never skip the interior reviews Mrs. Wizard! I loved the one in the old Caddy(?) with the silver gauge cluster. Good point about sitting diagonal from the kiddo, I do that with my cat when I’m taking him to the vet :)

[@ZiemowitP]

Replace hose to power steering reservoir. They typically leak on the alternator eventually killing it.

[@jakehization]

I bought a 97 ranger a year ago with 190k miles and the timing belt looked exactly like that. Amazed it lasted that long

[@wallace3953]

Dear Wizzard and Danielson: This is a great car. I would remove and replace the Radiator. Cheap. A/C must be discharged and recharged. REPLACE the front wheel bearings with Japanese made wheel bearings. Replace front shocks with Bilstein, when U do the Bearings. Needs new brake hoses. Service the brake pins. New rubber seals. Install Amsoil correct differential fluid. Transmission. Install new filter and Amsoil Trans Fluid, Signature series. Does it need a new Computer??? Rebuilt is maybe around $500. Check the cam sprockets. Are the gears kinda worn??? New tensioner and idler and water pump, etc. all NEW. Plugs use the platinum, like the originals. What about the two ingiters? Use the very best plug wires....they are thin. Check the bushings in rear, where the complex parts attach....sometimes these fail....can be a bit hard to detect....wiggle each part and pry, etc. SOMETIMES THE RADIO is sensitive to the (believe it on not) the FUSES, at kick panel on drivers side, and under the hood in the fuse box. Change them and see if the radio display works, again, like magic. The door inside the a/c heater resets, when the battery is disconnected. Replace the alternator and the battery. Check the grounds connections under the engine area, as related to the alternator. Remove and clean and re-connect. Get alignment, IF the tires make noises, upon full wheel chocking....Crank and cam position sensors, and engine coolant sensor....Replace them. This car will then be ready for another 150k miles, and another 150K miles, if they bring it in for CORRECT upadtes. This is one of the best cars ever made. They can not pay you guys enough to make it great, again. Check with the local upholstery experts.....the front seats should be taken care of....by real experts. It will be well worth it. Can you guys find a newer, better steering wheel. This car, when you finish, will roll all day and night at 90mph, better than any sedan they sell today. You guys are the BEST! The owner is very lucky to have this in your shop!!

[@christopherkraft1327]

Hey Mrs Wizard, I never ever skip your interior reviews!!! I actually enjoy them!!! 👍👍🙂

[@georgeperkins4171]

🤚um guilty Mrs wizard. But not always. It's cool you acknowledge that. I'll not ff anymore.

[@rastomasstanford7708]

Hear hear

[@jimharrington7532]

Very much appreciate your nod for Toyota/ Lexus/ Honda as your audience has benefitted by having your endorsement and many miles of trouble-free ownership. Your show is the best automotive show on KZbin.

[@TheCobruhAlienat0r]

I wish Wizard would have put the prices with labor on the screen as he was going over it. I'd of been curious just how much all that was.

[@umarfarooq5436]

He stated previously he charges $125 an hour. Extortion if u ask me

[@mitchhedberg4415]

I was thinking about $4k

[@mitchhedberg4415]

@@umarfarooq5436 You do not know the definition of extortion, so I will not ask.

[@DavidSmith-fr1uz]

I love my 97 with 305K. She's getting old now, bleeds out here and there, but she still runs great. if it weren't for the difficulty finding body parts, I'd fix her up. She's been a good ole girl.

[@Brararaf101]

Ever change the transmission fluid or still original

[@JimmyJump813]

eBay, Offer up, Facebook market place. Parts are not hard to find

[@vyrnmn]

Mrs Wizard's interior reviews are always good

[@cbruno12180]

This is awesome original timing belt!! Goes to show u after 25 years still going This is not really bad just needs replacement and it will run another 250k with a blink of an eye

[@jimklapperich]

I'm the 3rd owner of a well kept 2003 LS430. Picked it up 7/19 with 185k miles. Took it from San Diego to Seattle. San Diego to Chicago. San diego to Seattle to Chicago and back. It is a blast to drive through Denver. It's never seen salt and hopefully never will. I figure this is the last car i will ever own. I change the oil at 4 to 5k and it is still on the full dot of the dipstick. Timing belt and waterpump and radiator at 200k. Currently has 220k mies

[@md2k8]

This, 1997 Lexus LS 400 has been an excellent vehicle since brand new, but it has never been maintained recently. Always have your vehicle checked out and maintained by a mechanic shop or the current vehicular dealer service department, when it is the correct time to do it. It is the same thing with all other kinds and types of vehicles. Thank you very much and have a great weekend.

[@andrewash9318]

I’ve heard you say many times that no one listens to you when you tell them which cars to buy and which ones not to buy. That’s so interesting! You couldn’t be any more clear in your communication. Why do you think it is that most people ignore your advice, despite your being so clear and direct?

[@JohnSmith-yv6eq]

Money and opportunity. A good Toyota may not be readily available in your locality when you have the money or the need for one? You may not have the money? A friend offers a really cheap car...seemingly a real bargain...but not a Toyota...

[@KuruptViet]

The 95-97 LS400 is easily one of the best years they made. Last year they made it with glass headlights, the 4-speed A340E trans before they switched to the weaker A650E, and switching over from the non interference 1UZFE to the interference VVTI 1UZFE.

[@m3chan1zr]

I believe only the 90-94 were non-interference. The 95-97 had slightly higher compression. I had a 97 SC400 with the 4 speed and now a 98 LS with the 5 speed. I don’t feel any real benefit of the 5 speed. It actually feels slower since it has the shift from gear 1-2 that happens at pretty low speeds.

[@MauiWauiPineappleExpress]

@@m3chan1zr Correct, 89-94 is non-interference 95-up are Interference.

[@lordzeuscannon6400]

nope. 1990-1993 best years non interference engines so they won't blow up

[@MauiWauiPineappleExpress]

@@lordzeuscannon6400 89-94

[@KuruptViet]

Thanks for the correction. I was under the impression that they kept the same engine and transmission till 97.

[@robbyrob8349]

I had a 1996 Toyota Corolla when I was in high school. It was the best car I've ever had. It never broke down on me. When I sold it, it had over 500,000 miles on it, was still running strong.

[@jeejkee6471]

I have a ls400 from 2000. Today stearing wheel had a hick up. First faillure in years and I was schocked 😊

[@rosscullen531]

Aren't they the best?!

[@emeyer6963]

Power tilt?

[@zakmoon7065]

Proud Lexus owner here! and I can say that nothing beats the quality build and long term performance of my 2005 ES330!!! Amazing car

[@jon_e96]

build quality and performance on my 335i is way better than ur appliance on wheels

[@hiwind58]

Japanese all the way.

[@jon_e96]

@@hiwind58 only if it's an rx 8 or s15

[@JoeWilger]

I have a 1999 ES300 that I bought at 288K miles. Had some "deferred maintenance". I've gone through suspension parts (sway links / bushings). Made it to 350K miles on transmission. Put a rebuilt transmission in, and now we are at 430K miles. Was in an auto accident (rear quarter panel) - hit and run truck in a glancing blow. Car was able to drive out of the ditch, and I had a mechanic check for broken parts. No safety issues. Still driving today. Built like a tank, and keeps running. My personal challenge is to hit 500K, and if possible 1M - that might take us a few years to rack up that many miles.

[@benjaminlusskin3211]

@@jon_e96 HaHaHaha! Thanks I needed a good laugh.A 335i will never make it to 250k miles with no maintenance!!! Ill take the appliance every day!

[@DustyPearl-13]

I Loooooove watching Wizard talking thousands of dollars in repairs....Love it!

[@pablorosado535]

You said it perfectly: We can't go and buy another Toyota (car) for what it costs to do this ( repairs) . I did it with my 2005 Corolla at 199,000 in the year 2021, just when the dealers re- opened after the lockdown. I saw a new 2022 Toyota Corolla SE 6 speed manual transmission no CVT, and just like now the over MSRP price increase made it impossible. I had excellent maintenance records of my Toyota but the body and paint was the expense. But just like your client it was worth it. Now I am close to 270, 000 miles just paid for the recommended 4 tie rods repairs all o.e.m Toyota parts. Thanks for this video.

[@martinrowland2593]

I enjoy seeing the interior and how there holding up. After all that's where you spend all off your driving time

[@yma10]

The 1uz platform offers relatively affordable parts, with the timing belt kit typically costing under $200 and fluid-related expenses being minimal. Additionally, fluid flushing can be completed quickly. When I restored my right-hand drive LS400, I spent less than $5,000 on parts, which included removing the engine and transmission, dropping the subframe, resealing everything, and full assembly. Though the parts were cost-effective, the labor was quite intensive. It took me nearly a year to conduct the necessary research for parts and repair manuals. One challenge I encountered was the brittle wiring harness on these older LS models. I invested hours in rewiring everything, including the main engine wiring harness. While a full restoration might be feasible for a DIY enthusiast, the labor costs for someone else to undertake the project could result in a five-digit bill, making it less attractive for those seeking a daily driver. Nevertheless, this remains one of the most outstanding Lexus projects available, showcasing the pinnacle of Lexus engineering.

[@blackrifle6736]

*Respect your dedication and perseverance. Cheers!*

[@rpkett]

Just an excellent example of Japanese engineering. Hey Wizard, please do a mid-90s Land Cruiser. Those are the SUV version of the LS400, as far as being tanks and super reliable.

[@m3chan1zr]

The 98-2005 LX 470 too. 2UZ-FE engine that’s similar to the 1UZ in the LS. Not a lot of horsepower but it is reliable power to this day.

[@golferpro1241]

I listened. I have a 2004 Lexus RX330 AWD with 41,400 on the clock. Great SUV. Got it 2 years ago with 22,500 on it!

[@chipdiamond2628]

Amazing cars, that shows the quality of the parts they made back in the day.

[@jsun3117]

People fantasize about these cars and they are great up to a point. The plug wires are like linguini when not changed after so many thousands of heat and cold cycles. The Q45 of this era was more responsive and fun to drive.

[@GiovanniPicardo]

Keep pushin it Wizard, we love Toyotas!

[@bngr_bngr]

My sisters Ford Escort had 250,000 miles with zero maintenance. Got 50 mpg. She sold it. A few owners down the road it is closing in on 500k miles.

[@dtna]

That LS400 was probably the best Lexus LS400 made. Assembled at Toyota's Tahara plant in Japan. Built to compete with MB's S class and the Infinity Q45. The paint on every car was "wet sanded" at the factory. But the LEDs in the dash may go out on some cars. I've heard that there are places that can replace/rebuild them. Plus, if your Nakamichi audio goes out, Nak is no longer in business.

[@lordzeuscannon6400]

and Cadillac/GM. they said they couldn't make a car as good as the ls400

[@blackrifle6736]

@@lordzeuscannon6400 *...they never did. Cheers!*

[@blackrifle6736]

*Correct. Made in Japan LS400s have always been more prized and have better resale than ones made at TMMC in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada. Ontario ones are superb build quality, just not at the same level as Tahara-made. Yes, there are specialist shops that will replace the LEDs. Ain't cheap but worth it. Might be more difficult to find someone to repair the Nakamichi. Betcha' someone with the competence can be found here or in Japan. Cheers!*

[@dtna]

​@@blackrifle6736 Yes. These days, It should be easier to connect an audio system with bluetooth using your phone, bluetooth and a DAC.

[@blackrifle6736]

@@dtna *Agreed. Lots of smart electronics folks could integrate pair of TRS ports for a 12V Logitech BT box into any car radio. This guy comes to mind* www.youtube.com/@NorthridgeFix *Cheers!*

[@johndiaz7240]

That food looks great, Mrs Wizard has a beautiful home. No we don’t skip the interior segment. We have been owning Toyota’s since the 70’s currently own three.

[@TheMich36]

I always watch the interior review Mrs. Wizard.

[@rogerpritchard]

I have had my lexus now for 9 years. Quite simply an extremely smooth, quiet and reliable car. I speak from experience. Negatives are its not that economical on fuel compared to newer cars. But it still drives and feels like new. Great video. I didnt fast forward mrs wizard bytheway!

[@newfie-dean5803]

I had a 2001 Mustang that had 262,000 miles when a joyriding teen crashed into it and wrecked it. It literally looked like a car with under 100K on it. The interior, exterior and engine bay were in significantly better condition than this. This car was obviously not taken care of and the fact that it had no maintenance proves that. My car had oil change, tires, brakes, alternator, battery and a few minor items but nothing significant. If you take care of stuff it lasts.

[@777jones]

Sorry to hear about your car. You’re right that any good car will last 300k unless it has major design flaws. IF maintained. How many cars get maintained properly, 25% at best.

[@mitchhedberg4415]

@@777jones Nah, a Nissan CVT or lots of Hyundai/Chrysler/GM engines will be lucky to see 120k miles.

[@lucidrain9469]

I always enjoy Mrs. Wizard's interior reviews!👍

[@wotrulke5868]

Who would skip past Mrs Wizard interior bit 🤷🏼‍♂️ sometimes it’s the best part of the video 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼lol 😂

[@bmartin7828]

1:16 WOW! Nice kitchen Mr and Mrs Wizard, I like seeing your beautiful home behind the scenes. Love you guys and the Omega crew.

[@dakotakline461]

I have a 96. I was in a similar situation where there was not maintenance done in awhile, perhaps since new. I had all the plugs and wires replaced, shocks, struts, timing belt and water pump kit, distributors and rotors, valve cover gaskets, radiator, serpentine belt, all fluids, all hoses. 6k in work all together and then I had the ECU rebuilt and replaced both coils (2). Cost me another $700 or so. But solid now, rides smooth. I love it. But very similar situation. Also, I believe the 95-00 1uz’s are interference. Especially 98-00, those ones have VVTI on the LS400’s.

[@b-rad578]

I should've kept my 92 ls400 years ago. Loved it

[@alexisstarsmith1477]

My cherry! I'd buy for $800, spend $3K & still get another 300kmi forget the cheese like seats n such

[@maddog8148]

Wizard I listened!!! I got a Lexus GX 470!! I love it!!!

[@dabombinablemi6188]

I've got a timing belt replacement to look forward to, as my 1994 Magna was being serviced by its warranty/service book and has the timing belt as a 200,000KM item. And it isn't far over 193,000KM. The only broken thing is the AC as the compressor (despite being serviced by its own separate service book) as it is completely seized. Luckily parts are a lot cheaper for it than my grandmother's 2001 Camry or my friends 1996 Landcruiser.

[@gtr1952]

I have a kind of funny term I use in a case like this, it's called a "yabut". LOL 250k miles, never maintained, big bill to make it right. "Yabut", a brand new one, today, would be over $100,000! So lets say you buy the car for $5,000. You give the Car Wizz a $20,000 budget to make everything right under it and in the engine compartment. Including all replaceable wear parts on the engine, suspension, exhaust etc. Then give a body shop $5000 for a cut/buff and touch up. Last, on to the upholstery shop, $10,000 for new leather seats and interior. Now, you have an LS400 with all wear/replaceable parts replaced, including a like factory new suspension, and an all new leather interior, that except for the wear on the engine internals, is like new. For $40,000, 60,000 less than a 2023 factory new, you have a next to new car. That should go for another 250k miles. Just my way of looking at the big bill at the Car Wizz. For my $$ it's even a better car!!

[@camshaft5863]

90's cars are still better than the cars today. Simple to use, you don't have to go through the infotainment system to switch the AC on.

[@dangerousninjax9475]

Thank you for the interior reviews Misses Wizard. Every time you go thru the interiors it always amazes me how far technology and fabrics have come.

[@beausw]

Had the same vintage camry with the same mileage and the same maintenance. It was perfect. The cockroach of cars. They will be here long after we are.

[@TheCobruhAlienat0r]

My grandmother managed to kill a 2001 Corolla at 160k miles and barely 10 years old. She bought it certified used and shortly after it had a check engine light that the dealer and other mechanics said they couldn't figure out what was wrong with it. The car drove fine so she just kept driving it but only put the bare minimum into its maintenance because she figured it was going to crap out at any moment because of the check engine light. I think she just did one conventional oil change per year and she put on 12-15k miles a year. She'd only change the brakes and tires when she absolutely had to as well. She finally got rid of it when I insisted that she fix it or trade it in after I drove it and realized how unsafe it was because at random it would lose all power and you would try to take off from a stop and nothing would happen. I tried pulling out onto a busy road and when I was half way pulled out onto the road it just wouldn't accelerate. The engine was still running but nothing happened when I pressed the gas. I almost got hit multiple times on both sides as cars slammed on their brakes and swerved around me. A mechanic said it had zero compression on 2 of the 4 cylinders and quoted a new engine. She got $700 trade in value for it surprisingly.

[@bigmountain7561]

Back in the 80’s and 90’s when I was a Tow Truck Driver people would always ask me what is the best car to own, Toyota Camry or Toyota Corolla. Remember it’s all in the details which Detroit never had until recently. Oops except for Marmon or Duesenberg!!!

[@moriwaki1105]

MKII LS 400 Easily the Best car I ever owned.....had many Luxury cars since....NOTHING comes close to the reliability....and sheer driving pleasure of an LS400. Quietest....smoothest....best built.....most reliable......most enjoyable car ......they simply will never be anything like it again....the sound system is truly incredible too...30 mpg easily....I bought the 460 and it was a terrible drive compared to the 400.....had 400 7 years.....460 six months...enough said.....Far too complicated for no reason....buy the best 400 you can find...repair with genuine parts only....and have the Best Car EVER made.

[@jeffsheets9389]

I like Mrs Wizards interior review good job as always 👍👍

[@adamhusain4004]

Are you kidding me?! Mrs. Wizards interior reviews are my favorite part of these inspection videos!

[@alanbradford3130]

I kind of disagree that the car wasn't maintained, it obviously got oil changes and transmission fluid changes. BUT, yea, the belts should have been changed. I had a timing belt changed on my daughter's 2003 Toyota Avalon, it cost over $1000. Sometimes, people just don't have that kind of money, so it doesn't get done.

[@Tennesseestorm76]

I have a 1997 LS400 as well... 265k miles, but thankfully was a 1-owner and well maintained/garaged. They are tanks for sure.

[@markkrispin6944]

WOW...Over 250,000 miles and never serviced! Amazing.

[@T25de]

19:53 missed the radiator and hoses thermostat Likely vacuum hoses will break during the valve cover off. That girl will be good for another 100k miles soon!

[@AlexSoduk]

If that was bought right, even with the cost of parts+labor, you can't find anything better for the money. I would also suggest finding a more modern stereo with today's tech as it will likely cost about the same as trying to fix that old display.

[@djjerryspringer4840]

I’m a auto technician and I see so many Toyota that comes in and I see the neglect that these customers just neglect these cars and when I do write up the inspection they say it’s a scam it’s so sad smh

[@Brararaf101]

Toyota don't need those stupid flushes u guys recomend the car will rust before anything major goes wrong talking northeast

[@QALibrary]

well done on the sponsorship - you are real KZbinrs now!

[@whoknows8678]

It just means they finally sold out...

[@cutehumor]

Mrs wizard i listened to your interior review. I did fast forward the built in ad from car wizard 😂

[@macbook802]

I changed an Ls430 transmission fluid and filter. 120k miles. Lexus told me they do not change the filter, they only flush. I changed it anyways and it was spotless new. The fluid was spotless.

[@hugostiglitz8465]

Yeah, never do a flush..it only screws up the tranny.

[@macbook802]

@@hugostiglitz8465 no Lexus said to only do a flush. There's a drain plug on the trans. I think it only drains 4 quarts. Drain it and refill it. Filter does not need to be changed

[@hugostiglitz8465]

@@macbook802- A flush is when they attach a machine that puts new tranny fluid in while removing the old. I agree with the drain and fill.

[@macbook802]

@@hugostiglitz8465 no a flush is gravity powered. When you have a machine it's called a suck and fill

[@KekeeBlack]

I had a friend in high school whose father got her an old Lexus with a V8. I didn’t know or care much for brands back then but knew V8s were fast. As I have gotten into my late 20s I’ve realized her dad was right in everything he said or did. I never disagreed with him, just hadn’t formed an opinion yet. She had really good parents.

[@oveidasinclair982]

That starter location is the EXACT reason I was not considering a Lexus LS 400 V-8 engine car. You do have a point about it costing more money to purchase another car than to repair this one, we own two Toyota's, a 13 RAV4 and an 07 Camry, excellent machines.

[@nyccollin]

You missed out. My starter on my LS400 didn’t need replacement until 275k miles. Mechanic replaced it in my driveway in 3 hours.

[@eddiethetruhead]

You can’t compare the sublime driving experience of an LS400 to that of a Camry or RAV4. Shouldn’t let the inevitability of a starter repair rob you of owning one of the greatest cars ever made. 1UZ for life.☝️

[@oveidasinclair982]

@@eddiethetruhead Want a bet, I just put on 4 new Michelin's on the Camry, I test driven Lexus ES350's, Toyota Avalon's and the ride on that Carmy is every bit as comfortable as all the other cars I was looking at earlier this year.

[@eddiethetruhead]

@@oveidasinclair982 I said driving experience not ride quality. V8 rear wheel drive is a totally different driving experience than a front wheel drive v6. But if you just want a reliable soft ride then enjoy your Camry or ES350.

[@nyccollin]

@@eddiethetruhead lol right? I paid like $200 to have my starter replaced when the car was nearing 300k miles 😂

[@johnkendrick7304]

Just tell Mrs wizard knows I think that her portion of every video is the best part

[@Dsmpunk59]

The car care nut and Scotty Kilmer aren’t surprised

[@muppetpaster]

I had a Ford Escort 1.6 Diesel with over 550K Km on only one oil change since 40K Km and 1 fifth gear repair....Car is from '87 and still runs...Sold it in 1994 with 550K Km...

[@danielgradinaru7061]

Keep pushing the Toyota/Lexus button please. Good advice is always welcome car wizard.

[@Eric-ut5ld]

My girlfriend's mom has one of these. The radio and one of the door handle linkages have broken, but everything else is working. Absolutely stunning, smooth and reliable car.

[@laurat1129]

Nice kitchen there, Wizard family! Oh, and that Lexus is pretty amazing, but rest assured, if all this work gets done, it'll go another 250k as you said. (My '99 Saab, though not a Toyota, is proof of this.) So low-maintence luxurious, these cars barely require any comment either. Just literally goes (and goes and goes...) w/o saying.😂 Mrs. W, keep up the interior reviews b/c for most of us, this is the closest we'll get to sitting in some of these cars. It gives us an idea of the life of this car and the family who enjoyed it for >20 yrs prior. After the kids grew up, it probably got passed on to teen drivers maybe. As for the naysayers, if they're so mechanically disinclined they can't use the forward scroll (but can leave a negative comment?), pity them for being beyond help.🤷‍♀️

[@pauli6043]

Gas hood struts still work! That says it all

[@privateer0561]

If ever there were a car to put thousands into, it would be that one. I have a '97 (161,000 miles) and it's basically been trouble-free. It will need some love in the body department soon and a timing belt service (why bother with the plugs, etc. if it runs perfectly?) Probably should look at the rear end gear oil, but the trans fluid is full, doesn't leak, and it practically clear red. Keeper for life.

[@petesmitt]

Worn plugs stress the coils; always change plugs on schedule.

[@benjaminlusskin3211]

@@petesmitt So true and as they get worn-out the computer is compensating for them until it cant and then they foul out and you get misfires that can damage other things cheap ins to keep the engine running well for the long haul.

[@braveladder1682]

Many family and friends drive 90s and early 2000s lexuses with over 200,000. Besides MPG everyone is happy.

[@Fony_turgeson]

actually pre 2007 taurus are very reliable and strong

[@md2k8]

Agreed

[@Thenakedpeanutfarmer]

Yep! They ARE! I had a 1997 Emerald Green one! It was an all around really great car! Ran like a charm! I got rid of it when it had about 170,000 miles on it and it was still running well! 😎✌️

[@NenadTrajkovic]

Yesterday I saw a Fiat 2001 Punto mk2 (188), with 195k km on the clock, which had never been serviced... unbelievable! And that's a small, budget city car...

[@BerraLJ]

Will likely be a steep bill but then the car is likely going to give the new owner many more miles.

[@pscurti350]

A Pontiac Grand Prix with a 3.8 at 250,000 miles is just getting broken in.