Lexus SC 430

w210 · May 2002

I like the idea of having two fake seats in the back, even if it's tiny space, at least they are there for emergency.

For me, even the SL has the storage area behind the front seats, since I often have the top up, I rather open the trunk for easier accessibility.

Hey practicality is always important to some. That's exactly why I pick a hardtop convertible over one of those noisy hard to maintain soft top convertibles.

tmt123 · May 2002

Wondering if anyone else is having problems with their SC. Two complaints here (I've owned the car since Jan. 8 '02):

1. Seat comfort - it's terrible. Really hurts my lower back. Yes, I've tried every conceivable setting on the seats, including lumbar. I'm 5' 10", 180 lbs.

2. Numerous rattles - Coming from the passenger seat, right rear roof support, center console, etc. These are hard to diagnose because they are intermittant and not very loud. However, they are really annoying, especially for all the talk about "quality" in Lexus cars.

Wondering if anyone else has a similar experience?

carnaught · May 2002

I find that if the car itself is cold and depending on the outside weather conditions, I may have an occasional rattle form the roof. I've had this with EVERY car I've owned so far(and I've had a lot). I find that this car is one of my quietest, overall.

squidd99 · May 2002

I've had the car for a year now, and find the seat comfort excellent. This includes several trips of 6-8 hours of driving time. I've had some cars (GM) in which the seats hurt my back after about 10 minutes (about the same amount of time the average customer sits in the car in the showroom). I think these seats are great; no complaints from the passenger, either. I think your back needs adjusting.

No rattles either, but every car is different. Some complaints have been registered here, but usually followed by reports that they were fixed by the dealer. I've had none myself, but I've only been driving it for a year. I agree with the above comment: this is one of the quietest cars I've ever had.

In fact, when I was given a SUV300 (or something, the smaller of the 2 Lexus SUV's) as a loaner, I liked the car a lot, but was surprised to hear a LOT of wind noise set in at about 50 mph. This was a first for me in a Lexus. I even checked to be sure the windows were all up. It wasn't my car, and I had never driven a SUV of any kind before, so I forgot about it. My point is that I was so used to having almost no wind or road noise at even 90 mph that this experience was quite memorable.

I've had neither of the problems you report.

devoke · May 2002

Has anyone purchased a phone for your SC430. We understood there was going to be one, but Lexus now tells me they are not planning to introduce one for the SC430. We had a Mercedes before and the only good thing (well not the only thing, but one of the few good things) about the car turned out to be the built in phone which worked through the Bose stereo. We are looking for a hands-free option because we think it is much safer. The brochure says it is "pre-wired for the optional phone." Anyone have any suggestions or know more than we do about this? Thanks,

squidd99 · May 2002

When I looked at the "concept car" (SC430) at the Chicago about 18 months before it went on sale, the Lexus rep told me that there would be a built in phone option. At that time, it was to be operated (and "dialed") from the touch screen that is now the nav system.

Since then, according to my dealer, that option got lost, probably because so few people get built in phones any more. I used to have one in my SC400, but after a few years it was obsolete, and was not even worth the money to take it out to reclaim the space. Like everyone else, I went with a hand held because they are so small now that you can take them everywhere, and only have to buy one phone (and one phone number).

The best deal is to get something with accessories that plug into a remote speaker/mic. For my use, I just use a headset, because I don't really use the phone in the car for much more than listening to messages on my voice mail.

I think the days of the built in phone are about over, mostly because the technology is changing faster than we switch cars. It's just too complicated to build one into the car to interface with the stereo system and maybe a video screen. As much fun and as cool as that would be, I, for one, just don't want to pay for all that stuff and be stuck with it for maybe 10 years, which is how long I kept my last Lexus.

devoke · May 2002

SQIDD99, thanks for the phone info. We had a phone in our Mercedes which interfaced with the radio (dial from the radio, hands free, remembered numbers, etc) and it was actually a motorola star-tac. It could be taken out of the car and used like any other cell phone or when installed in the car it had a full 3 watts of power and use of the car's installed antenna. It could be replaced with any new version of the star-tac or a motorola compatible as the need for upgrades occurred. Bose built the stereo, motorola built the phone. It was expensive though. I believe it was $1500 as an option. We really liked the hands-free option for the obvious reasons, but mostly it worked better than the after market products. The phone could be used in the hands-free mode even with the top down on the car. It's the only thing we miss about the Mercedes. Although, let me say, the Lexus more than makes up for the phone in every other category, especially build quality.

kdude · May 2002

I bought my SC430 back in March of 2001. It now has over 13,000 miles. Starting around 12,000 we noticed a clunking noise from the back wheels when driving over bumps. I recall seeing a message from someone else on this board reporting the same issue. I took it in for service. They changed the bushings to a newer model (I suppose this means they are aware of the issue with the early production cars), changed the rear breaks (they thought it was a little noisy. I had not noticed anything), and did a realignment; all at no charge and under warranty. They even gave me a brand new ES300 as a loaner while they were doing the work (nevermind the free cappuccino and bagles). Once again Lexus came through with its service and backing their products. I wish Mercedes was as good.

bpraxis · May 2002

Hello fellow car enthusiasts and I hope that you had a nice weekend.

Looking at J.D. Powers latest quality survey Mercedes is finishing in 10th place well behind Honda and Toyota more less Lexus which was in first place. Is this a result of higher volume production for Mercedes relative to the past?

While to my eye both cars are very attractive, the Lexus is by far the bolder styling statement. And why is Mercedes using the basic headlight style on its expensive cars that it uses on its entry level C class? Many of its cars are starting to look alike from the front. If I were going to spend $86,000 to $110,000 for a new luxury sports coupe I am interested in automotive art. And the Mercedes while very handsome seems to be an evolutionary design with the historical styling cues.

For even more exclusivity for the money why not consider the new Masserati Coupe for approximately $80,000 with 390 horsepower? And 20 different color combinations for the interior.

And then the new Infiniti coupe may be a consideration with very attractive styling arriving in October for approximately $28,000. Infiniti quality is also always ahead of Mercedes but does not have the badge prestige yet.

Isnt Capitalism wonderful?

verozahl · May 2002

Capitalism is wonderful. Now go make a statement and dump some money someplace. Hurry up, I wanna see some GDP growth.

I don't particularly like the SC430 styling (especially after following the gorgeous SC300/400), but at least it's distinctive. With Audi or Benz, I have to go around to the back to look at the car model numbers.

Benz can't do mass-production the way Toyota-Lexus can. It shouldn't try to chase Lexus, because it will only suffer where it matters, in quality. Benzes should go back to being exclusive, and not play with the RSX or whoever with the C-class hatchback.

I don't really think you will see Lexus or Maserati in the same post again. What were you thinking, bpraxis? They compare in money, but otherwise, two different worlds.

wolfpack1 · May 2002

I can't help but respond to the accolades I have read regarding Lexus's service. I will preface my remarks to state that all of my experience has been at one dealer (I will not name the dealer - but they are located in Doylestown, PA - hint, hint).

I have a '93 LS 400 and a '01 RX 300, frankly we were oh so close to purchasing the Mercedes SUV based solely on the service experience from our local dealer (the other dealers are too far away to be used practically). I will not bore you with the details, but complaints to Lexus HQ did nothing to resolve the problems. Fortunately, the issues were specific to the dealer and the car has been fine.

Just a note of caution when you read how good the service is at Lexus, it can be site specific.

jbradb · May 2002

I'm getting a convertible...that much I've decided. Almost got loaded 330cic this week. But, 54K driveout for a tiny BMW seemed crazy. So, for 12K more, I can get the SC430. Had a GS300 I just sold that was perfect and dealers treat me like a king. I've ruled-out any Mercedes Benz for this reason from what 6 friends have told me of their dealership experiences.

Questions:
1. how much do run-flat tires cost to replace?
2. how long to order one without run-flats?
3. which is best dealer in Houston, TX?

Thanks.

squidd99 · May 2002

I don't know how much the run flats cost to replace, since I am still on my original tires. Your dealer (any dealer) can tell you that. (How many Lexus dealers are there in Houston?) Same answers to the question about how long it would take to order.

My guess is that a dealer would swap them out for you on the spot, so there would be no wait. And from what I know, I would suggest that you have the dealer do it, because you can have problems with the tire pressure sensors if you do not do everything correctly.

Finally, if you get the new rear bushings in your new car, and I expect you would, you will not have so harsh a ride as on the original cars. I just had mine replaced (under warranty) and the improvement is great. And you get all the extra space in the trunk. I'd think twice about not getting the run flats.

mikeivan · May 2002

Talk to Mary Margaret McGowan at Westside Lexus, she is the best sales person I have ever dealt with: 281-584-2236. She took me on lots of SC430 test drives before I settled for an LS 430. I loved that little car but, for the same money...... The run flats ride more harshly than the Dunlops, IMHO. I saw a dark green SC 430 last weekend that looked great. Westside service department is fantastic to customers.

hvan3 · May 2002

<<I'm getting a convertible...that much I've decided. Almost got loaded 330cic this week. But, 54K driveout for a tiny BMW seemed crazy. So, for 12K more, I can get the SC430.>>

Well let see... For $12,000 savings,

1) you can buy a top of the line Mitsubishi 65" HDTV with top of the line home theater system for a total cost of $9,000. Throw in another $3k for a nice home entertainment wall unit.

2) buy a Presidential Rolex. That way you can drive in style with your 330ic.

3) Put $12000 in your childrens' college fund.

4) Put $12,000 down payment on a townhome and rent the unit to someone.

5) Load up on beaten down blue chip high tech stocks. Buy low, sell high.

6) And of course, if you are generous, donate $12,000 to a needy guy like myself.

7) Buy a nice Harley bike for $12,000

8) With $12,000 savings, money can be use to pay off 7 years of premium gasoline for your 330ic.

and the list goes on. Nice problem to have....

squidd99 · May 2002

Let's see; 54 plus 12 is about 66. Do they cost that much now? I sure am glad I got mine last year.

66? Really?

sphinx99 · May 2002

I'll take the $12,000.

jbradb · May 2002

thanks for your input. i'll let u know what happens.

yamahar6 · May 2002

Frankly, I think that calling a car ugly these days is almost a compliment.

Most cars are just bland. To call a car, "ugly" means that the designer has created a somewhat original design.

Certainly the Aztek qualifies, even though that was a "failure."

But does this? I personally like the design in the same way that I now like the design of the 7 series.

But I don't see how it is "truly" ugly. If anything, it is just bland, certainly the front end is, the front end of the 7 looks so much like a face that it too, is bland, of perhaps blandly handsome.

The back of both cars - again, they don't impact me enuff to use such a strong word as "ugly."

Cars are like people, most are just quite ordinary looking - either slightly below or above avg., there are a ltd. few that are stunning, and an EQUALLY LTD. few who are truly ugly.

The SC and 7 might bound the border b/w stunning and above avg. (if u r like me), or b/w ugly and below avg.
-Yammie

laurasdada · May 2002

Does anyone have any winter driving experience with the SC430? How bad is it in the snow?

Or am I insane to even ask such a question!?

habitat1 · May 2002

you were quoted an "out the door price" of $54k for a BMW 330cic? That's within a couple of grand of a new full MSRP 2002 M3 converible I briefly considered. I ended up getting a great deal on a new M5 instead. However, if you are seriously interested in a 330cic, I determined that a well equiped one can be had for about $40k new (n/i taxes, if you go the discounted European Delivery route. Check out www.eurobuyers.com and add about $1,500+/- to the ED invoice price.

The 330cic is a very different car than the SC430. My next door neighbor just took delivery of an SC430 which he bought at his wife's insistence (she couldn't drive his 6-speed Honda S2000 and threatened to run it over with their SUV). Now he's already asking to borrow my M5 to play around with. While I don't consider the 330cic a sports car, it's much more of a "drivers" car when equiped with a manual transmission and sport suspension. The SC430 is much more of a luxury convertible.

jbradb · May 2002

Squidd99: I drove one yesterday and could feel the road quite a bit...maybe not a deal-breaker, b/c i love the car otherwise. They TELL me that 100% are being produced with runflats and it's 4-5 months to order one w/o them. I didn't ask about replacing the tires on the spot.

But, is there some way one could tell if the rear bushings have been replaced with the current/better ones (besides asking the dealer)? Thanks for you time in answering these questions.

jbradb · May 2002

I pick it up after work! Very excited.

carnaught · May 2002

Please tell us color,etc. and share the love.....

squidd99 · May 2002

I think, from his heading, that is car is silver with the black interior, which, I understand, is the most common color combination. My dealer says silver, used in almost all the ads, is the most prevelant color by far, and few come with the white -- excuse me -- ecru interior.

I do have a friend who has a silver/white, and it looks very good indeed, but I may be biased because mine is black/white -- ooops I did it again -- ecru.

As the color choices pretty well exhaust the option list, I think we have a pretty good idea about the car, unless he is going to -- let's say it all together now -- get new wheels !!! That changes the car big time.

I'm still considering that.

brewsterfl · May 2002

I've got 7K miles on my black SC430 and I thought I would give readers an update on my experience.
I'll start by saying this is my 2nd SC -the first was a 95 SC300 with 5 speed. I didn't want to get rid of it but my son was drooling over the car so he got it.

Immediately after picking up the SC430 I started having troubles with the top. It would open sometimes and then it wouldn't. It would close sometimes and then it wouldn't. Sometimes it would function correctly for the dealer mechanic, sometimes it wouldn't. Yes it went into the shop- 4 times! Sometimes they would say they fixed it- (motherboard chip replaced), sometimes they would just shrug their shoulders. It worked fine from October to December and then it got the gremlins again.

Solution: They finally tore out the wiring harness- (Yes the whole thing) and then discovered a bent connecting pin. Yes they got all the parts back in and the top has gone up and down fine for the last three months.

For my trouble Lexus is giving me a free 10K service and sent me a check for 1 month of lease. I thank the service manager at the FT Myers Lexus dealer going the extra distance for me.

I recently picked up a nail in my front left tire. It was replaced at no charge. The sensor never came on, the run flat never went flat. I just noticed the nail head one day.

Posting # 259 mentioned bushing repair. My old SC300 need rear bushings at 60K. I noticed a squeak over speed bumps and that cost me a nice piece of change because it was no longer under warranty. I will keep an ear alerted to squeaks and will jump on it if I start to hear anything.

I seriously considered a MB 430 but I couldn't get 2 sets of golf clubs in the trunk. I couldn't even get 1 set of clubs in a traveling hardcase into the trunk. Yes its true the backseat is worthless (except for insurance discount).

Would I buy something else instead? Probably not. The SC430 is a lot of car for the money. To me it's every bit as nice as the new SL 500 and the pocket change paid for a trip to Italy.

wishnhigh1 · May 2002

that really is some exceptional service on part of your dealer...not only did they give you a free 10k service, but also 1 month lease payment. Im impressed. How long did it take to fix the top?

esse22 · May 2002

Has anyone read about any changes for the 2003 model which will be out in Oct.

lovemyclk · May 2002

I'm assuming you were refering to the CLK430 Cab. My question is: "where do you place the 2 sets of golf clubs in the SC that you couldn't in the CLK?" (There is less room in the SC than the CLK!) Believe that if the golf club test is a barometer for cabs, very few would pass. I find the SC to be much more of a personal driving experience... a terrific weekend droptop for the well-heeled, not something for a couple of guys to take to the golf course with their clubs.

The service experience proves that sometimes, it's not the fact that a defect is found, but how it is resolved that matters. Shows a classy respect for the consumer that just spent a tidy sum of money.

squidd99 · May 2002

I don't play golf, but I've had my SC430 for about a year and often read that sets of golf clubs is sometimes used as a measure of luggage capacity. For the 430, I think that a set would fit in the trunk with the top stored (and run flats), and you probably could get two sets in there with the top up.

One thing about that trunk, is that it is far taller than it first appears. With the top up, I can fit in plenty of luggage for 2 for a week at the beach, including 2 beach chairs, if we pack in canvass bags, and use a few small bags that fit into the corners. I was quite surprised.

I consider the back seat storage space, and on a vacation drive, when the top would be up all the way anyway, theres room for stuff there, as long as the leather is protected.

Now I saw a TV show this weekend which showed the MB 500SL, and I was disappointed with the trunk and top arrangement. Even the car is about the same size as the SC430, and has no back seat, and even though the top folds into 3 pieces (the rear window breaks loose from the top and folds inself into the space between the folding top panels), the top still takes up all the space, front to back, in the trunk. (Much like the SLK.) Now what they think is so clever is that you can press a button in the trunk and the folded top lifts up so you can store stuff UNDER the top. This is better than nothing, but what do you do with the groceries? I love the fact that I have that tall space between the folded top and the back bumper to put my groceries or other small purchases, maybe my briefcase or gym bag, or the kitty. The MB makes it a very big deal to get to that space, and makes the car a lot less useful for running errands about town.

And you guys didn't think the SC was practical.

lovemyclk · May 2002

The SC is a "style" statement, not a practicality statement! Having driven the SC... and it is a nice ride... it screams weekender to compliment the sedan. I live with a CLK right now and it swallows a fair amount of luggage, golf clubs, etc. - especially when the rear seats are folded down.

None of these cars will win a practicality contest... SC, SL, etc. Guess we should get back to the "fun" observations regarding this car and its competitors.

squidd99 · May 2002

When you one one car, especially one on the edge, there's nothing more fun than pointing out to your friends where other, and more expensive cars, don't measure up.

Same thing with women.

mike10 · May 2002

I disagree with "lovemyclk". I purchased the sc430 for a number of reasons and practicality was definitely one of those reasons. The sc is my daily communter and weekend car. I find the car to be quite comfortable and a pleasure to drive. The ability to drop the top on nice days for the drive home is a very nice added bonus. (Living in southern California there are far more nice days than not.) I have just over 17,000 miles on the car and do not see why a two seat hard top convertible would not be practical for quite a number of people.

As for being a style statement, I believe this is way over stated. No matter how nice a car may look to you, it has to meet your overall driving needs first.

squidd99 · May 2002

The car is practical in that it fits your needs (and mine, which is why I bought it).

It's not versitile, which is why it will be sold only to a few.

I don't think it's practical for most people, but if your needs are comfort and luxury on road trips for 1 or 2, and sporty, conspicuous zipping around town, then this is the car for you.

A Navigator is versitle, but I don't want one.

twaite2 · May 2002

Have had my 430 for 11 months and have had a very sporadic problem with the volume going to max when you simply touch the volume control on either the steering wheel or the stereo. The dealer replaced the original stereo last month but it still occasionally does it. Has anyone else experienced this?

lovemyclk · May 2002

I'd agree on the "practical" vs. "versatile" comment. It's very practical for the reasons cited, as most people who can afford these cars are not forced to drive a "one size fits all" solution. It's practical in that it satisfies the personal driving experience, not the "let's haul the family with luggage on vacation" experience.

Decision criteria at this level tend to lean either toward the luxury or sportiness quotient, then the intangibles play a role... which are unique for each buyer.

The SC is definitely a "statement" car, as is the SL and others in this price range and up. I don't look at an SC driver and say "damn, bet he can't take that to Home Depot to pick up lumber!"

kdude · May 2002

I too had the same problem. The dealer changed the amp and all has been fine since (over 4 months since the repair). Others had also complained about this with some of the early production cars. Note: They may keep the car overnight! Something about the audio system finding the new amp, or the otherway!! I never got a good explanation. The result was what was important to me.

jbradb · June 2002

I adore this car! Yes, it is silver with black interior, exactly like the '00 GS300 I got rid of. Only thing I added was tinted windows. Both my old GS3 and this one are flawless cars. I don't have a problem with the wheels. No demons so far!

davidgroup · June 2002

THERE IS AN SC430 FOR SALE IN NJ. IT HAS 9500 MILES ON IT. THE DEALER IS ASKING $59K. He says the price is justified because he added a "$3000 radar system", it has never been titled, a car cover, and most importantly, the car is in hot demand. Is this a good deal. Am I missing something here? I am in desperate need of FEEDBACK

jbradb · June 2002

That car has already adapted to that driver's driving style and heaven knows how it was treated. Plus, between the 3 dealers I checked with in the Houston, Texas area, there were a total of no less than 15 NEW SC430s available in a variety of colors (not to mention many used ones). I'd opt for a new one, if I were you.

carnaught · June 2002

....for a car with lower mileage. The car may have been beaten up. As for the "$3000 radar system", I don't believe it and I'd pass on it. It shouldn't be too hard to get a low mileage pristine car, in the same price range and save taxes over the new car.

squidd99 · June 2002

. . . and besides, there is no such thing as a $3,000.00 "radar system." If you want the best radar detector out there, get a valentine. I've had one for years (it's been updated twice) and I don't leave home without it.

And it's not 3 grand.

davidgroup · June 2002

Great feedback. I feel better knowing that I wasn't missing anything. It seemed a bit over priced. But when your shopping and you really want the car.... lets just say all rational thinking sometimes goes out of the window. With that said..... If I did decide to purchase the car what would be a reasonable price to offer. Edmunds does not have it priced yet.

squidd99 · June 2002

I'd suggest you pick out a color combo (that's really the only option around) and tell the dealer you want that car and will pay the sticker price. That seems to be what most people have paid for the first year of sales. I've read here that Lexus will not let a dealer sell a NEW one for more than sticker (which is probably why you are getting screwed on this used one -- a $3,000 radar "system" my [non-permissible content removed]).

I agree that you should get a new one, as the used market for this car is all over the place, and you are really not saving much money, if any.

If you want extras, radar detectors and car covers are readily available, as are spiffy wheels and anything else you want to add.

Take your time, as you will probably have the car for quite a while.

I waited patiently for 18 months and got the colors of my choice, and have had no troubles of any kind. I expect to keep this car for at least as long as I had my SC400, which was about 10 years.

Plan B: try another dealer.

karklin · June 2002

Could anybody tell me how many miles I can get out of my run flat tires on my SC-430
Thanks Leo-K

mike10 · June 2002

I am at just over 18,000 and the tires look fine. Will measure the actual tread depth this weekend and let you know.

dh50 · June 2002

I have 19100 miles and the the threads look fine also. However, the tires seem to be getting noisier and the ride rougher. Also, I have noticed a bubble or knot in the sidewall of my front right tire. Be sure to check your tires for this condition. I was told that this might be caused if a curve or pothole is hit. I have ordered new tires for fear of a potential blowout. By the way, check you tires at several different rotational positions. I can't see the knot when the threads at that part of the tire is touching the ground

karklin · June 2002

Thank you all for the info on th run flat tires it was greatly appreciated Leo-K
lk5727@aol.com

karklin · June 2002

I own a C-320 and nothing but a pain in the neck.
I purchased it new in March 2001 and I counted 6 different problems.Water in the fog lights water in the trunk mulfunction in the fuel gage tail light problem, problem with belts,frozen front wheel.Some of the promblems they did not want to fix.I owned Acuras 2 no problems. I also own a 2002 lexus SC-430 not a single problem.
I think Benz is going to hell.Later on this year this bundle of problems is going to be traded.
Leo-K

habitat1 · June 2002

I have become convinced that Lexus just doesn't want to compete for the "driving" enthusiast.

I finally got an opportunity to drive a friend's two month old SC430. Although I haven't yet driven the new SL, the Lexus interior has to be right up there in terms of quality/luxury. But, IMHO, the car doesn't handle or feel nearly as precise as the BMW 530i that I am considering for this fall. And I don't think a "sport package" is going to help that much. The entire vehicle dynamics, weight, etc. were more in line with a luxury sedan than a sport coupe. Even my friend acknowledged that the SC430 wasn't much different to drive than the E430 he traded.

Lexus has certainly given Mercedes a run for it's money in the luxury segment. I just don't see any evidence that they want to take on BMW for prospective buyers like me. And perhaps there is nothing wrong with that. Amoung my mid-40's peer group, I am the only one I know that cannot bring myself to buy an automatic - even on a family sedan or SUV. So I'm the "niche" not the "masses".

Lexus SC 430

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