Lincoln LS

cdnpinhead

The automatic windshield wipers are an option, if you go as far down the food chain as I did for my LS.

I don't remember the name of the package, but I didn't order it, and as a result I didn't get the auto wipers, dual-setting mirrors, seats and what-have-you, among other things. It's not as if I have it and won't use it. I chose not to get it.

OTOH, an option that is 100% electronic and would appear to cost the manufacturer absolutely nothing extra, like the message centre, is useful to me, with very little downside. As we've discussed in the past, Ford made a choice to stiff the V6 possessors by not offering the message centre display. I'm quite confident all the hardware is in place.

It's not entirely accidental that our family's most recent vehicle purchase was of a vehicle not made by Ford, or any other American manufacturer. Yes, I know about content, and this one is 95%+ not in North America.

desertguy

Well c'mon. Don't keep us in suspense. What is your new purchase? I guess Mexico is considered North America so that lets out most VWs.

akirby

That would be the convenience option. I fully support not being forced to buy stuff you don't want.

And the hardware does not exist to add the message center to the V6s. The wiring harness is not there. It could be, but they chose to take it out. I suppose it saves a couple of bucks. I agree it seems silly not to have it on the V6 when you can get it on cars costing half as much but that's marketing for you.

cdnpinhead

Allen: Thanks for the heads-up. I didn't realize the wiring harness wasn't installed. My guess is that it costs more to book-keep not putting it in than to put it in but as always, I'm open to real data.

Jerry: I jumped on the minivan bandwagon before it existed; we bought an '86 Voyager (two years after the concept was introduced), and replaced it in '94 with a Caravan. With 140K miles (and well-publicized transmission "issues") on it, it deserves its retirement.

Since it's my wife's car, she absolutely gets to pick & chose to go with . . . (drum roll) . . . an SUV. Did I jump right up and go for an Explorer? Uh, no.

We bought a Pathfinder, from the company that built my 240Z that I backed off the showroom floor with 6 miles on it, and drove 223K miles. It's got a fair amount of the stuff that makes me worry, but I'm fairly confident that it'll still be working long after it might have been, given another source.

akirby

I looked and looked but couldn't find a Pathfinder with a manual tranny, so you must have a dreaded slushbox.

I feel sorry for your wife the first time that auto acts up......

(just poking fun - don't get offended)

div2

I had a 1993 PF I ran up to 136K miles. The 1st. Gen. models did have a problem with the A/T; the integral trans cooler had a tendency to clog with the result that the A/T would overheat and cook the internal seals. By 1993 the PF had an "A/T Temp" light which served as an early warning of the problem. I had no A/T troubles, largely due to the fact I had a high capacity radiator installed(the one positive result of my wife whacking a tree with the PF in the middle of an ice storm:p)and I always ran Mobil 1 ATF. I sold it because I needed to keep the TJ for job related reasons(plus the Jeep is a bit more fun to drive) but they are great vehicles. IMHO, Jeep, the Japanese, and Land Rover are the only companies that still build true off-road ability into their SUVs. Well, there is the H1 and the overpriced Tahoe-in-drag H2...

cdnpinhead

of trying to buy a vehicle with a manual transmission, as most of you know, is pretty discouraging. My better half doesn't care one way or the other, but can drive a manual -- she'd just rather not.

We looked at Xterras also, which can be had with a manual, but (like the LS) if you really want one with 4WD and other options, it's a special order. Besides which, the engine makes 60 (count 'em) fewer horsepower and gets the same fuel mileage. That 3.5 litre Nissan motor looks like a winner to me, which was also part of the equation.

Either way, we've got it, and I'll have a shot at selling the ol' minivan for a couple large sometime in the next few months. Other than the slushbox, it was a pretty damn stout vehicle. We definitely got good value. . .but for that $2K transmission rebuild. . .and the follow-up $600 reseal. . .and it's leaking as we speak.

And to Buckwheat (another blast from the past on this board), thanks for the link. It said pretty much what several of us have been preaching here and other places for awhile. Rather than paste a bunch of the quotes, I'll just go with the subtitle: "Needed: Products, styling, identity" Other than that, though, everything's just fine.

Given the retrospective season, hello to Ray, who's apparently considering another LS. Given his well-documented desire for power and recent experience with a car from a company I've grown enamored of over the past couple of years (at least for rentals in Europe), I'll be very interested in how it all turns out. Keep us posted, Ray.

Take care, guys.

johnsmoke

I replaced the AC Cabin filter on my 2000 LSV8 when the computer message came up (42K and was it filthy!). But I can't get the computer (via Status/Reset buttons) to reset to 100%. I'm following the operator's manual, but it is not clear. Any ideas?

akirby

I forget exactly but you're either pushing the button when you should be pushing it and holding it or vice versa. It can be confusing. I *think* when it displays the % remaining you first hit the reset button to indicate you want to change it, then HOLD the reset button for a couple of seconds and it will reset. Or something like that.

akirby

I did a test last night. It was 36 degrees and the car was cold. Once the engine warmed up I set it on 80 and noted the fan speed. It was high but not maximum. Moved the temp between 80 and 85 - no change. But when I moved it from 85 to 90 the fan speec went to maximum which is what the Owner's manual says it should do. The same should happen when cooling the car using 60 degrees. The fan speed does increase so the car would heat or cool faster using 90 or 60 respectively than using 85 or 65 because the fan speed is at maximum. You can also manually adjust the fan setting to maximum and the rest of the system will continue to work in auto mode.

rfdevil1

Or is it automatic temp control? Anyway,since this being discussed, I will say that I don't always leave it set on auto. Thanks to you all, I have been doing it more often and hey, it works great. Set it and forget it. However, my question is around the defogger/defroster. I got in my car this morning and the outside temp was 16 degrees F and my window was frosty. ATC was set on auto I stared at the frost while nothing happened. I had to set it on defrost to get anything to happen. I know that it does no good until the car temp exceeds the freezing point but
but if you have fog / frost the auto setting doesn't appear to be the best option. I guess that the exception?

v8lincolnguy

The only time my ATC has been out of the "auto" mode is when I've needed a rapid defog or defrost. The system will not automatically select that mode. Typically if the weather is warmer and the windows are fogging up, I can leave it in auto and just turn the A/C switch on as the A/C typically dehumidifies the air enough to eliminate fog.

Akirby, I've never tested with the heat, but can confirm that after sitting in the hot sun with the ATC at set at 68, the A/C came on at full speed when I started the car last summer.

nvbanker

Auto works for most circumstances, and will compensate for temperature, humidity, sun load automatically and quite well. But rain, snow, freezing windshields do occasionally require an override button to be pushed.

the_necroscope

My wife refuses to accept the notion that setting the blower speed to high when the engine temp is 4*F just blows 4* air on her. Every time I get in my LS after she has driven it, the auto setting have been disabled. Drives me crazy.

The auto setting will cool the car MUCH faster when the temp setting is dropped to 60. This will force the blower to maximum and open the recirculation door. I've tryed it. It works.

nvbanker

But it does that anyway, if the interior of the car is hot enough, until it starts to cool off, then it begins to moderate.

lobsenza

I find that 65 works fine. Then as the car gets closer to temperature, the fan slows down. I live in TX where it gets very hot.

sniemietz

My buddies at Pavilion LM in Austin are up to their old tricks. I made a appt. to get the oil changed, radiator flushed, brakes checked and 4 new tires for my 2000 LS non-sport w/42K miles. I called them ahead of time to make sure they had the Michelin Pilot XGT V4's on hand. The parts guys informed me that Michelin does not make a Pilot in this tire. I told him I was pretty sure they did and I would get back w/him on the issue. I checked out Michelin's website and printed the spec sheet out to give to them. I even went so far as to call the CS line to verify the info. Sure enough they make the tire in the Pilot series. I called the parts guy back and offered to fax him the spec sheet with the part number of the tire. He said he tried to get the tire from a local distributor and they can't even get the tire becasue Michelin doesn't make that tire so the part number is useless to him. I asked him if I should get the tires myself and bring them to him so he could see for himself. He response was whatever. Anyway Blake at tirerack is sending me 4 of them, be here Monday. $525 (includes shipping).

lobsenza

There are dealer alternatives to Pavillion in Austin. I have never been there because of their reputation. I bought from Johnson in Burnett and they are the best dealer I have ever dealt with. Mac Heik in Georgetown is good also. Drop me an email (see my profile), maybe we can get together sometime....

ANT14

"Every time I get in my LS after she has driven it, the auto setting have been disabled. Drives me crazy"

Does she have her own car she can use? I'm often driving for other friends and always make sure I place all settings as they were. Then again, different politics since it's friendship and you can't divorce them

lateralg

"Every time I get in my LS after she has driven it, the auto setting have been disabled. Drives me crazy"

Soundls like something that could be corrected by adding climate control setting to the user memory along with seat, steering wheel, mirror, pedal positions.

akirby

But it does that anyway, if the interior of the car is hot enough, until it starts to cool off, then it begins to moderate.

No, No, NO!!!!! I tried this on the heat setting (have to assume it would work the same for cooling). When the temp is on 85 the fan is about 3/4 speed. Moving it from 80 - 85 didn't change it. When you move it to 90 it goes to maximum and it's very obvious. It will not go to maximum speed on anything other than 60 or 90.

the_necroscope

Gary, I could be wrong but I believe the CTS has that functionality...on the V6...

Sorry, had to say it. I'll go burn my eyes out with a glowing ember...

Allen, I'm with you. I've tried it as well. VERY noticable difference, especially when that recirc. door opens in the summer!

78nomad

Jag XJR Owner with the same problem. Following cold weather in Seattle this last week (not terrible and garaged all week) experienced this problem on way home last night -- probably same FORD supplier. Fortunately had Rags at the ready.

lateralg

Harry,

Could be; I don't follow them that closely.

Save the glowing ember for something serious.

rayainsw

Bought the last 2003 LS8 Sport in the area equipped as I wanted and in an acceptable color combo. (Autumn red over gray - looks very much like my Y2K!)

Thanks to all who contribute on this board!
- Ray
Enjoying the 'new ride', (dual) climate control, heated / cooled seats, and all . . .

lateralg

Ray,

Welcome back.

Nav. system?

I assume you're all set with X-plan ... right?

akirby

Autumn Red over grey? I thought heyjewel had the corner on that color combination.....

rayainsw

No nav. Though I can certainly see where it would have value in certain circumstances, where it is only available bundled with the sound system upgrade at $3K, I just do not encounter those circumstances often enough to warrant the additional expense. And, while there is no such thing (for me) as “too much power”, in the audio realm, the system standard in the Sport is fine for me.

Fine w/X-plan, thanks.

My Y2K was the same exterior color – and the interior trim color was similar.

Cheers,
- Ray
Who would have enjoyed Vivid Red, had it been available . . . Oh, well.

rayainsw

Are you still in Suwanee?
I am in Duluth.
Coffee some Saturday?
- Ray
Any excuse to drive the new car - but to get a pic of 2 autumn red 2003 LS-s . . .

akirby

Yep - still here but really busy right now. I saw the thread on the other board from kelleyo. I'll follow up over there.

But mine's a 2000.....

slunar

Welcome back, Ray.

Congrats on your new LS.

lsnewbie

Hello All,

I am currently in the market for 2002 LS8. I test drove 3 and they all had the same smell as the car warmed up (I live in Chicago, it's winter). It smelled like oil burning and it's strong. No smell under the hood but in the car. Could it be the heated seats and the leather heating up?

rpdrpd

I am sure this has been covered, so I appreciate your patience!!

I have narrrowed the choice down to an 01 LS8, sport model, with everything, including AdvanceTrak, with 35000 miles, certified pre-owned by LM dealer for $20000. The other car is an 00 I30t, CPO, 45000 miles, for $18500. Both are black on black. I like the historic reliability of the I30. I realize they are two different cars, and believe I could be happy in either one. I am leaning towards the LS, however, and would like a little convincing. Please walk me through the price comparisons, long term ownership (my current car is an 83 280z, I keep cars forever!), and anthing else you deem relevant. Thanks.

airwolf1000

Sounds like you have your answer. I am sure it agrees with all of us here. If you like your 280Z you definitely will like the LS8 Sport not the I30. If not look for any clubs related to the automobiles you are searching. I am sure you can get more information about owners likes and dislikes.

Better yet you could read through the thousands of discussions here, and the comparisons to 540. I30 just doesn't come close. Please read the posts. It will save all of us much time. I think you have the answers you need but if you need affirmation I am giving it to you. Buy the LS it winds hands down, style,performance,design, reliability (maybe onpar to I30 maybe not but quite good anyway). Best of Luck.

 

lobsenza

The LS will out handle an I30 hands down. They are also very reliable, the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I know several people with 100,000+ miles on them.

leadfoot4

Did you have the defroster on? I get a "unique" odor from the defroster of my 2000 LS from time to time...

travelbill

I've got an')) sport with 102,000 miles and it's one of the most trouble free cars I've ever owned, I've had BMW, Mercedes, GM,and Fords and this one has been more fun t drive than anything .You'll like the car even more the longer you keep it.

v8lincolnguy

Thats not a bad price for the LS. Do they extend the factory warranty under the CPO program? I bought an 01 LS V8 sport last September. Mine had 25K and I got it for a bit over 22K. Mine has all the features including Advancetrak. From what I've read(and remember) fully loaded LS V8s ran near 40K when new. Now they list over 45k athough that price includes equipment not available in 2001. If you like the I30, save some cash and find a loaded out 01 or 02 Maxima as the I is just a fancy Maxima. IMO, the LS and the I are in a different class of car. Thus far I have been impressed with the build quality of my LS. It is MUCH better than the Oldsmobile Intrigue which it replaced. Good luck.

v8lincolnguy

I've been noticing an occasional "hot" smell in my LS. I seem to notice it most when the weather is really cold(and thus the heater fan running at a higher speed) and after the engine has been running at a higher speed such as hard acceleration. I first thought it might be something with the heater fan or the car's electrical system, but I can smell it outside the car as well. In the LS owner's club discussion board, there are some posts about 00 and 01 LSs having leaky valve covers and that this will cause this condition. Lincoln is supposed to have a TSB for this. I plan to take the car in soon to have this checked.

nvbanker

That's exactly what it is.....

rpdrpd

The factory warranty will be extended to 6 years/75000 miles from the in service date. For this car that means another 40000 miles or until June 2007. The warranty is the Lincoln Premier Extended Warranty you can buy on your own. It seems very comprhensive. I am told the warranty retails for $1800 from the dealer, so for $20000 I will be getting the car plus warranty.

I agree the I30 is a much different car. As I drove it I wanted to be "wowed" by driving an Infiniti but it didn't really happen. I am not sure how to make a "practicality" decision, but I am clouded by Japanese reliability. The I30 looks good, especially black over black, but the excitement level just isn't there. I am annoyed that the I30, being a year older and with 10000 more miles is essentially the same price as the LS. And the LS stickered for about $10000 more than the infiniti when new. I could say that the LS is the better buy because it cost more, is newer, less miles. But why does the LS depreciate at a much faster rate than the Infiniti? Is that a reflection of the overall reputation of Japanese cars versus American cars, or is it a reflection of the LS itself, or the I30 itself?

I am not like some of the posters who claim to have owned and driven 15 or 20 cars over time. I buy one car and keep it forever. That's what makes a car buying decision for me so important.

lobsenza

The reason the LS costs less is because Lincoln has done a terrible job on marketing the car. It is amazing to mee how good the sales are with the current marketing that is taking place. The reason the sales are at the level they are is because it is a terriffic car and an even better value. Lincoln has chosen to put incentives on the new vehicles. This also hurts resale. But, the person that buys used is a big winner from this strategy. The person who buys new wins as well since the price paid is way below sticker.

I have a Word document with comments about the LS. If you want a copy email me at LobsenzA@Rose-Grp.com

slunar

The Lincoln LS warranty is 50,000 miles / 48 months. So a 75K / 72 mo warranty only adds 25K miles and 24 months.

Resale value has a lot to do with customer preception. I just read an article (don't remember where it was) that said customer perceptions of reliablilty is getting seriously out of line with what reliably really is.

Specifically the article said that most people percieve import brands to be more reliable than the really are. They also preceive Ford, GM & Chrysler to be less reliable than they really are.

The article singled out the Mercury brand as the one brand that has the greatest dispartity between perceived and actual reliablilty. That is, most people perceive Mercurys to be unreliable where warranty and repair claims say that the Mercury brand is very relaible. I think Lincoln suffers from a similar mis-perception. I had a 2000 LS V8 and had very few problems with it. In fact the only problems I really had with it were created by the dealer's service dept. when I had them do some of the upgrades to it (rear half shafts etc.)

akirby

Steve - he was saying that he had that much time left on warranty starting right now - not when the factory warranty expired.

v8lincolnguy

If it were a Q45 or even a G35 then you would probably be "wowed" by driving an Infiniti, but the I30 is nothing more than a fancy Maxima. FWD and a beam axle rear suspension and all. Truthfully, you would probably be more wowed if you found an 01 or 02 Maxima SE as it is the sportiest of the breed. The LS's resale seems to drop like a rock which is no fun for the person who bought one new(I know the feeling as I bought an Olds Intrigue brand new) but for those of us buying used, it is a great deal. The longer warranty that comes with the CPO program is an even better deal. If you plan on keeping the car for a long time, I'd seriously consider both and see which one you enjoy driving more day in and day out. And for the record, I'm not a die hard "blue oval" supporter either. The LS is my first ever Ford product and I've often been critical of some of their stuff, but this is one car they really seemed to have gotten right.

reneleblanc

I've been off the board for a couple months, so I missed the opportunity to respond to the statements about the automatic windshield wipers being removed in '04 models. That is a SHAME! They should AT LEAST make it an option. Yes, I live in the desert, but this is our traveling car, so we end up all over the map, and I have driven in a lot of rainy situations. The Automatic windshield wipers are the greatest innovation since electric starting. And yes, not being able to get automatic wipers again WOULD prevent me from buying the car. I don't want to go back to manually fiddling with the wiper controls to keep the wipers working at the correct speed for variable rain conditions.

nvbanker

I tend to agree, and to hell with the morons who "couldn't figure them out" is what I say. BMW still uses them!

Of course, I'm not sure I believe that story - it's probably just Ford "thrifting" them out, to save $10 per car.....

v8lincolnguy

Had a pretty good rainfall today and the rain sensing wipers worked flawlessly. I too wish Lincoln would have kept this feature. Heck, if you don't like it just put the wipers on manual mode. BMW, MB, Saab, as well as others have used this feature for years. Just another one of this "little things" that makes the car feel more special.

nvbanker

I totally agree. One of the reasons I have driven Cadillacs and Lincolns over the years, is they have had more doo dads on them than the foreign cars did. I'll never turn my own lights on again, or adjust a manual HVAC if I can help it.

lateralg

Good to hear from you again.

How many miles on your '00 Sport? How well is it now performing? Have you had any durability problems?

Gary