2006
New 2021
Used 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000

Lexus LS Change Vehicle

Unlock Ratings
The LS430 is one of the best-scoring luxury sedans we've tested. The cabin is very quiet and comfortable and the controls are intuitive to use. The powertrain is especially refined. The rear-seat area is roomy and very well equipped, especially compared to others in this class. Handling is sound. Overall, the LS430 exhibits a plush, luxurious driving experience, but lacks the exciting feel of a sports sedan -- which it is not.
Alerts
There is 1 recall on this vehicle. Learn More.
2006
New 2021
Used 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000

Lexus LS

Reliability
See All
Owner Satisfaction
See All
Crash and Rollover Tests
IIHS Front Moderate Overlap Good
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver NA
IIHS Side Crash NA
NHTSA Frontal-Crash, Driver NA
NHTSA Frontal-Crash, Passenger NA
See All

Road Test Results

Performance
Acceleration Acceleration Acceleration tests are conducted on a smooth, flat pavement straightaway at the track. Time, speed, and distance measurements are taken with a precise GPS-based device that’s hooked to a data-logging computer.
0 to 60 mph 0 to 60 mph (sec.) The time in seconds that a vehicle takes to reach 60 mph from a standstill with the engine idling.
Transmission Transmission Transmission performance is determined by shifting smoothness, response, shifter action, and clutch actuation for manual transmissions.
Fuel Economy Fuel Economy We perform our own fuel-economy tests, independent of the government's often-quoted EPA figures and the manufacturers' claims. Using a precise fuel-flow measuring device spliced into the fuel line, we run two separate circuits to represent city and highway consumption.
CR's Overall Mileage CR's Overall Mileage CR's overall mileage is a composite of measured fuel usage on a prescribed city course and highway cruising; and CR's 150-mile test trip of mixed driving, if tested. In recent road tests, we've discontinued the 150-mile trip test.
CR's City Mileage CR's City Mileage Measured fuel usage on a prescribed city course.
CR's Highway Mileage CR's Highway Mileage Measured fuel usage on a prescribed highway cruising.
Annual Fuel Cost Annual Fuel Cost The cost and amount of fuel used in 12,000 miles and is calculated from CR's overall mileage.
Braking Braking The braking rating is a composite of wet and dry stopping distances and pedal feel. Braking distance is from 60 mph, with no wheels locked.
Emergency Handling Emergency Handling Several factors go into the rating, including the avoidance maneuver speed and confidence, as well as how the vehicle behaves when pushed to its limit.
Comfort / Convenience
Ride Ride Our expert judgment of how well the suspension isolates and absorbs road imperfections and how steady it keeps the body on various road surfaces.
Noise Noise Our expert judgment of the vehicle's interior noise level in everyday driving.
Front Seat Comfort Front Seat Comfort Our judgment of how comfortable the front seat is for drivers of various heights.
Rear Seat Comfort Rear Seat Comfort Our judgment of how comfortable the rear seat is for two passengers to sit across.
Interior Fit and Finish Interior Fit and Finish An expert evaluation of the interior quality and craftsmanship.
Trunk/Cargo Area Trunk/Cargo Area Our rating is based on the amount of luggage or cargo space that a vehicle has in the trunk or cargo area.

Owner Reports

Worse Better
Reliability History Reliability History The reliability charts are based on responses on hundreds of thousands of vehicles from our latest Annual Auto Survey. Consumer Reports subscribers reported on any serious problems they had with their vehicles during the past 12 months that they considered serious because of cost, failure, safety, or downtime, in any of the trouble spots included in the table below. The results are presented relative to the average model that year. Extra weight is given to the more serious areas such as major engine or transmission problems. Based on this data and further analysis, we predict reliability for the latest year. N/A indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide data for a specific year. An X indicates that the vehicle was not manufactured for a specific year.
2000
NA
2001
NA
2002
NA
2003
NA
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
NA
2010
NA
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
NA
2020
NA
Reliability Trouble Spots
Engine Major Engine Major Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt.
NA
Engine Minor Engine Minor Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, oil leaks.
NA
Engine Cooling Engine Cooling Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating.
NA
Transmission Major Transmission Major Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, clutch replacement.
NA
View all Reliability
Owner Satisfaction Owner Satisfaction To learn about satisfaction, CR has collected survey data from our annual survey on more than half a million vehicles. Our subscribers provide great insights into their satisfaction by answering one simple question: If they had it to do all over again, would they definitely buy or lease the same model? In addition, respondents also rate their cars in six categories: driving experience, comfort, value, styling, audio, and climate systems. N/A indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide data for a specific year. An X indicates that the vehicle was not manufactured for a specific year.
2000
NA
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
NA
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
NA
Driving Experience Driving Experience Includes acceleration and handling
Comfort Comfort Includes seats, climate control, noise, and ride
Value Value Did you get what you wanted relative to the price you paid?
Styling Styling How it looks inside and out
View all Owner Satisfaction
Safety Equipment
ABS and side air bags standard. ESC standard from 2000. Head protection air bags standard from 2001. Rear side air bags available from 2007.
Road Test

The LS430 is one of the best-scoring luxury sedans we've tested. The cabin is very quiet and comfortable and the controls are intuitive to use. The powertrain is especially refined. The rear-seat area is roomy and very well equipped, especially compared to others in this class. Handling is sound. Overall, the LS430 exhibits a plush, luxurious driving experience, but lacks the exciting feel of a sports sedan -- which it is not.

Seating
2 front, 3 rear
Drive Wheels
Rear
Warranty

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties
Body Styles
sedan
Transmissions Available
  • 6-speed Automatic
Engines Available
  • 4.3-liter V8 (278 hp)

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2006 Lexus LS owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

Suspension

Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

What Owners Say

Alignment

"Alignment of rear wheels seem to be difficult for both Toyota and Sears to accomplish."

Anonymous, FL (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

"could not align rear wheels. Needed new control arm"

David A., VA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Electronic or air suspension

"Over $4000 to replace 2 rear air struts. one had a small leak"

Anonymous, ON (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Power steering pumps and hoses

"Lost power steering intermittently. Mechanic diagnosed rack smd pump issues. Replaced with aftermarket parts and everything's fine."

P O., FL (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)
Shocks or struts

"Left rear shock/strut failed."

Anonymous, FL (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

"Leaking in right front strut."

Anonymous, PA (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

"Front suspension and rear struts had to be replaced at a cost of over $6,000 - I don't feel Lexus dealership gave me any warning on this despite me bringing up issues 4 months prior"

Anonymous, SC (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

"Left rear shock failed (leaked). Replaced with new shock."

Anonymous, FL (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

"My Lexus has air shocks. After 165000 miles I expect that they would need to be replaced. However, I wasn't prepared for the cost. They were $2,000 each! So, the problem I have is the cost."

Michael R., CA (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

"Within the last couple months, I noticed a hydraulic fluid leak from the driver's side rear of the car and traced its origin to the strut. As well, I had heard a "clunk" from the right rear going over bumps. I had both struts replaced with my extended warranty covering the leaking one, and the other on my dime. Now that both are replaced, the car's strut problem is a thing of the past. I file this under routine maintenance for a car with 70,000-plus miles on it, and it completely resolved the leaking/clunking problems."

Anonymous, CA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

"Front air shocks needed to be replaced due to wear"

Michael R., CA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

"Replaced front shocks"

Anthony G., NM (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

"Because of the age of the vehicle the front struts had to be replaced which was done by me and get a alignment all this had to be done because all my 4 tires were feathering and I also replaced them before doing the struts but now it's going good . Right now on my daily driver I feel a vibration from my steering and I am suspecting it's the bushi gs"

Chetan K., CA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

"Right rear strut had to be replaced, even though it had been replaced 13K miles ago"

Anonymous, CA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Steering linkage (includes rack and pinion)

"Lost power steering intermittently. Mechanic diagnosed rack smd pump issues. Replaced with aftermarket parts and everything's fine."

P O., FL (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)
Steering wheel vibration

"Lower bushings in steering column failed"

Michael R., CA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Tire wear is uneven

"An alignment had to be performed after changing the front struts"

Chetan K., CA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Wheel bearings

"Left front wheel bearing"

Anonymous, CT (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
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In-car Electronics

CD or DVD players, radio, speakers, GPS, communication system (e.g., OnStar), display screen freezes or goes blank, phone pairing (e.g. Bluetooth), voice control commands, steering wheel controls, portable music device interface (e.g., iPod/MP3 player), backup or other camera/sensors.

What Owners Say

CD player

"CD PLAYER IS- PART OF THE MARK LEVINSON AUDIO SYSTEM. THE OTHER DAY I STARTED TO DRIVE AND TURNED ON THE SYSTEM, SELECTING THE CD PLAYER BUT ID DID NOT FUNCTION. A NOTICE ON THE SCREEN COMES ON STATING, CD PLAYER ERROR, I HAVE NOT HAD TIME TO TROUBLESHOOT THE PROBLEM,"

Jepd S., TX (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

"one disk jammed in cd player"

Anonymous, CA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

"Eject mechanism on the CD player does not function problem and no one seems to be able to repair. Dealership recommendation is to replace the entire navigation system"

John H., OK (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Display screen difficult to see

"The contrast is not good nor bright, it was replaced and it still does not good"

Anonymous, NE (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Display screen goes blank

"only works in cold weather also nav system kaput"

Terry L., MD (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)
In-dash navigation system (GPS)

"Doesn't work"

Terry L., MD (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

"System froze and could not be touch operated. Entire unit had to be replaced"

Anonymous, CA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Phone pairing (e.g., Bluetooth)

"unable to connect smart phone to blue tooth"

Anonymous, CA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

"unable to connect phone to vrhicle"

Ted K., CA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Radio

"Radio does not always turn on."

Anonymous, OR (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)
Steering wheel controls

"all controls on the steering kaput"

Terry L., MD (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

"Don't work"

Terry L., MD (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
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Electric System

Alternator, starter, hybrid battery and related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, distributor or rotor failure, spark plugs and wires failure.

What Owners Say

12V power plug

"The center console ashtray lighter power plug fuse has blown need to be replaced"

Sean L., MD (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)
Body control module

"Computer shorted during rain causing instrument panel, tail lights and interior lights to not operate properly."

Michael R., CA (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)
Headlights

"headlights got moisture inside. They replaced them no charge"

Thomas R., WA (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)
Interior lights

"Lights do not always work"

Anonymous, HI (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Keyless entry

"Formerly I could start the car w/o placing the key fob into the ignition switch and I could open the locked car by placing my hand on outside handle. Now I must open the car by pressing a button on the key bob and I must insert the key into the ignition switch. Ihen reset the code in the key fob with the car's computer. There must be a cheaper and simpler fix by reprogramming the key fob."

Anonymous, MO (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

"Just stopped working. Had to use key for everything"

Irwin B., NY (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Tire pressure monitor

"Tire pressure confirmed via pressure gauge while low tire pressure alarm continues to show on dash"

Gary B., TX (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Warning lights

"Warning lights come on after being reset. problem is the lights not the auto functon"

Dan O., MO (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
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Body Integrity

Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, loose or cracked seals and/or weather-stripping, air and water leaks.

What Owners Say

Air or water leaks

"same problem stemming from air conditioner problem"

Anonymous, NC (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

"Water pump leaking had to replace at a cost of $900"

John H., OK (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Seals and/or weather-stripping

"Seals that keep water out of the trunk failed and both inner quarter panels filled with water and the computer that controls the navigation system, back- up cameras and radio/cd/Bluetooth were covered in water and ruined."

Anonymous, MS (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

"doors seals creak over time. applying rubber protection every few months eliminates the creaks"

Joseph M., MA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Squeaks or rattles

"Plastic components flex and rattle (stereo surrounding, dashboard speaker grill)"

Joseph M., MA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Wind noise

"Annoying"

Anonymous, AZ (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
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Paint/Trim

Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling), loose interior and exterior trim or moldings, rust.

What Owners Say

Loose exterior trim or moldings

"LF wheel well trim came loose and got into tire, had to replace trim"

Anonymous, TX (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling)

"Rear bumper has spots where the sealant is peeling away, also the headlight covers are completely cloudy....car is not protected in the garage. I am now in the process of looking to buy a new Lexus"

Anonymous, CA (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

"Several spots of rust dispute being garaged."

Anonymous, CO (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Rust

"It's in a seaside parking lot 6 months a year in Florida. No wonder it rusted! The new Highlander is in a garage in another state. I'm bi-coastal..."

Anonymous, WA (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

"Very disappointed in quality of paint. The car is garaged and I still have several rust spots. Also had to replace all wheels which corroded and would not hold air."

Anonymous, CO (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

"A common problem based on what I see on other LS cars I see. Front drivers and passenger doors have rust in almost the exact same spot mid high on the door. Because it is on so many cars I surmise something rubs the door skin from the inside"

Jack T., IL (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
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Brakes

Antilock system (ABS), parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pulsation or vibration, squeaking, brake failure or wear.

What Owners Say

Master cylinder

"Stopped functioning"

Anonymous, FL (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Normal routine brake wear

"The cost of brakes, caliper and rotors was exorbitant- 750 dollars for 4 wheels"

Anonymous, NY (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

"Routine dealership service."

Anonymous, CA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Premature brake wear

"The rotors on this car wear out every 20,000 miles. I think they are not designed for winter city driving"

Jack T., IL (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
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Body Hardware

Power or manual windows, locks and latches, tailgate, hatch or trunk, doors or sliding doors, mirrors, seat controls, safety belts, sunroof, convertible top.

What Owners Say

Locks and latches

"passenger electric lock assembly had to be replaced"

Anonymous, VA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

"Driver's side front door---the lock fell out of the handle. This was actual part where into which a key could be inserted"

Jane D., GA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Mirrors

"Both outside mirror controls failed. Had to replace the entire module. Individual repair parts are not available"

Anonymous, CA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Sunroof

"Sunroof is not used regularly and it locked in to the tilt open position, after several attempts I was able to engage the motor and it closed. Motor is probably beginning to fail."

Anonymous, CA (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)
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Engine Cooling

Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating.

What Owners Say

Water pump

"Mechanic installed aftermarket waterpump with limited lifetime warranty, replaced waterpump three times in seven months. Replaced with OEM waterpump on last installation"

Anonymous, TX (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

"Had to be replaced. Very expensive, taking engine out or some such. They replaced the timing belt at same time, a bit earlier than scheduled but saved $$ vs doing it when scheduled, as involves some of same steps"

Anonymous, GA (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

Climate System

Blower (fan) motor, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate control, refrigerant leakage, electrical failure.

What Owners Say

A/C compressor

"ceased functioning and required replacement"

Anonymous, IL (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)
Refrigerant leaks

"mat under drivers foot area wet from clogged air conditioner"

Anonymous, NC (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

Engine Major

Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt.

What Owners Say

Head gasket

"Basically, when my car got 200,000 miles on it everything started to fall apart. I had to replace the starter, three wheel bearings, some of the seals that keep water from getting in the trunk- water already ruined the computer in my trunk that controls the radio, the back up cameras and cruise control - but I didn't replace the computer due to cost. Than the engine started to go so sold the car."

Anonymous, MS (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

Power Equipment

Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, remote engine start, alarm or security system

What Owners Say

Starter

"Started failed and it had to be replaced. It was a MAJOR repair since the engine intake had to be removed"

Richard H., TX (2006 Lexus LS 430 4.3-L V8)

Exhaust

Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, leaks.

What Owners Say

Exhaust leaks

"cracked at a weld joint"

Terry L., MD (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

Engine Minor

Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, oil leaks.

What Owners Say

Oil leaks

"very small valve cover gasket leak"

Anonymous, FL (2006 Lexus LS 430.0 4.3-L V8)

Drive System

Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, 4WD/AWD components, driveline vibration, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), electrical failure.

Transmission Minor

Gear selector or linkage, leaks, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission.

Fuel System

Check engine light, sensors (includes O2 or oxygen sensor), emission control devices (includes EGR), engine computer, engine computer, fuel cap, fuel gauge/sender, fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel leaks, stalling or hesitation.

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