1998 Lexus GS400 from North America - Comments

The rear tires wear out much quicker then the front because the lack of traction is present.

Water pump started to leak at around 64,000 miles.

The catalytic converter completely rotted away at 41,000 miles.

Both taillights let in air and water during the winter.

The transmission stalled from Reverse to Drive transition.

A couple of fuses burnt out after a battery change at around 50,000 miles.

This car is incredibly smooth both during city and highway driving.

The power range is incredible, and it almost leaps out of the road when on full throttle.

Fit and finish is great.

Very roomy and ergonamic interior.

Although rear legroom is somewhat limited.

I have a 98 GS400 Lexus. It only has 67,000 mile's. The problem is that when I start my car in the morning with out it being warmed up and I take off it seems the tranny slip's and the car has a hard shift to it. I want to know if this happens to anybody else.

My GS400 is draining battery power when I use the remote to set the alarm. After 8 hours from work and as I am trying to start the car, there is no ignition.

I would hear a clicking type of sound from the hood when I step out of the car. I followed the sound and came up to the fuse box where the horn/relay fuse is located. When I remove the fuse, the noise would be heard on the lower left side of the hood.

I am not sure what the problem is, but if anyone have any idea of what is wrong please advise. I am currently driving without the horn/relay fuse attach. It seems to not drain the battery power when the fuse was remove.

This is in response to the previous comment about the trans slipping when the car is not warmed up. I purchased a 98 GS400 about a month ago, with approx 86,000 miles. It is my first Lexus and I have really enjoyed it so far. But I have experienced exactly the same thing with the trans on several occasions. In addition, I have also experienced some slight hesitation in the acceleration if I've been coasting for a few seconds and then hit the gas again. I plan on taking it in soon for a checkup, but it's somewhat comforting to know that it may be characteristic of the car and not just a problem with mine. Comments from anyone else on their similar experiences would be welcome. Thanks.

I have a 1998 GS400. I buy and sell cars. If your reading this to buy one listen to me. I believe this is the best car in its class and the best car I ever owned. It will beat any benz, BMW and Cadillac with its performance. The ride is very smooth and the A/C is Alaska Cold. I have 20 inch rims installed and it gets lots of attention. It drives very smooth even with 20 inch rims. The seats are comfortable. The radio and speakers sounds clean. I don't think I will ever buy any other car unless it's another GS. It's sporty and luxury. I was reading some commons about transmission slipping or, etc... I don't have this issue at all. The minute I start the car it ready to go. The A/C comes cold right away. If your looking for your next car, this is it.

I have a GS400 with about 133k, and when I try to burn rubber at cold start it will not do it. I believe this is really normal. When then reach 1\4 ways up the fun begins LOL. And yes it is a performer.

The reason for the hesitation in acceleration when the car is cold is that the vehicle starts in third gear until it warms up. If you have the manual option, you can see for yourself that the car won't settle into first gear until after fives miles or so of driving.