Thinking about buying a used Lexus LS (2000–2023) in New Zealand? We've documented 8 known faults for this model spanning engine, suspension, transmission, and fluid leaks. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated major. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
8
Documented faults
Major
Most serious
$900–$4,500
Typical repair
5
Systems covered
Known Lexus LS faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
The V35A-FTS 3.5L twin-turbocharged V6 shared with Land Cruiser 300 and Crown Sedan exhibits a documented cold-start timing chain rattle on some units. Hydraulic tensioners do not retain full oil pressure during extended cold soaks, allowing chain slack for several seconds until the oil system pressurises. The pattern has been reported on LS500 and cross-platform on the V35A family. Extended oil drain intervals and use of incorrect viscosity oil worsen frequency.
Symptoms to notice
Cold-start timing chain rattle from engine front, lasting 3–15 seconds
Worse after overnight soak in cold conditions
VVTI or camshaft correlation codes in some cases
No symptoms once fully warmed up
What to check
Insist on a cold start — do not allow engine to be warmed before inspection. Listen immediately at engine startup for metallic rattling at the front of the engine. Verify correct oil grade (0W-20 specified) and check service history for adherence to 10,000 km or 12-month intervals.
Where to look: Primary and secondary timing chains at front of V35A-FTS engine block
Ask the seller
“Does it make any rattle at all on a cold morning start?”
“What oil grade and change interval has been used?”
“Has any timing or engine work been done?”
023UZ-FE valve stem seal oil smoke on cold start
MinorCommonEngine $800–$2,500 to fix
The XF30 LS430's 3UZ-FE 4.3 V8 develops hardened valve stem seals that let oil seep past overnight, giving a puff of blue smoke on cold start-up. Common with age; requires seal replacement to cure.
Symptoms to notice
Blue smoke puff on cold start
Smoke after long idle then revving
Slight oil consumption
Oily plugs over time
What to check
Watch the exhaust for a blue puff on a genuine cold start and after the car has idled and is revved; check plug condition.
Where to look: Cylinder head valve stem seals
Ask the seller
“Any blue smoke on cold start?”
“Have the valve stem seals been replaced?”
“How much oil does it use?”
EngineMajor
SuspensionMajor
SuspensionMajor
TransmissionMajor
Fluid LeaksMajor
ElectricalMinor
6 more documented faults on the Lexus LS
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 8 documented faults for the Lexus LS, the recurring problem areas are engine, suspension, and transmission. A Lexus LS with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Lexus LS?
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We've catalogued 8 known faults for the Lexus LS, covering engine, suspension, and transmission. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Lexus LS?
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Most single repairs on the Lexus LS fall between $900–$4,500 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 8 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Lexus LS?
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Yes. A Lexus LS inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.