Complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | vs. typical* | Recalls | Top problem | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 12 | −38% | — | Acceleration | Average |
| 1999 | 22 | typical | — | Acceleration | Average |
| 1998 | 45 | 2.4× | — | Acceleration | Avoid |
| 1997 | 13 | −31% | 1 | Brake | Average |
| 1996 | 19 | typical | 1 | Brake | Average |
| 1995 | 39 | 1.4× | 1 | Electrical | Average |
* Complaints compared with the median LS400 year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.
Most common Lexus LS400 problems
Latest Lexus LS400 recalls
Electrical system › Starter assembly
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. Due to improper assembly of the terminal for the starter motor magnetic switch, an electrical short circuit can occur if electrically-conductive liquid, such as road splash with deicing salt, enters this area.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the magnetic switch.
Frequently asked questions
What years of the Lexus LS400 should you avoid?
1998 — this year has the most complaints relative to other LS400 years at the same age, led by speed control & acceleration problems in the 1998.
What is the best year for the Lexus LS400?
2000 has the fewest complaints compared with other LS400 years at the same age, followed by 1997. Newer years can look better simply because fewer complaints have come in yet, so we compare like with like.
What are the most common Lexus LS400 problems?
Across all years, owners report the most problems with the speed control & acceleration (37), electrical system (33) and brakes (14). Acceleration complaints peak in the 1998 model year.
How many recalls has the Lexus LS400 had?
1 recall across 1995–2000. The model year with the most is 1995.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.