🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Lexus Model: LS400 Year: 1998 Engine Code: 1UZ-FE Generation Generation: Third Generation (XF30 - although this refers to the 1998 model which is the end of the second generation) Codes Vin Prefix: JTF 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: The Lexus LS400 was positioned as a flagship luxury sedan, directly competing with established European brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW. It emphasized refined comfort, quiet operation, and exceptional build quality. Competitive Analysis Competitive Analysis: Competed against the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Jaguar XJ. The LS400 distinguished itself with Japanese reliability and a focus on owner satisfaction, often surpassing its German rivals in build quality and perceived durability. Key Features Key Features: V8 engine, premium interior materials, advanced features for its time (e.g., optional navigation, adaptive air suspension), exceptionally quiet ride, and legendary Lexus reliability. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Areas: Comprehensive: Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Chassis, Emissions, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Repair Procedures, Specifications, Wiring Diagrams. Page Count Page Count: Approximately 2000+ pages (estimated for complete factory service manual equivalent) Manual Type Manual Type: Official Factory Service Manual (Digital Software) Language Language: English Format Format: Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer accessible via CD-ROM/download) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Systems Covered: Engine Mechanical, Engine Control (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic), Driveline, Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, Traction Control), Wheels & Tires, Body & Frame, HVAC System, Electrical Distribution, Lighting, Audio System, SRS (Airbag) System, Security System, Diagnostics & On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II). Procedures Included Procedures Included: Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Removal & Installation, Reassembly, Adjustment Procedures, Repair Techniques, Torque Specifications, Electrical System Diagnosis, Wiring Harness Repair, HVAC System Service, Body Panel Repair, Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI), Final Assembly Checks. Technical Depth Technical Depth: In-depth: Covers everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electronic diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Includes detailed schematics and wiring diagrams. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Proprietary software or PDF (searchable and printable) Print Quality Print Quality: N/A (Digital Format) Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Primary Engine: 4.0L DOHC 32-Valve V8 Performance Horsepower: 260 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Fuel System Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Engine Displacement Engine Displacement: 3969 cc Engine Bore Stroke Engine Bore Stroke: 87.5 mm x 111 mm Compression Ratio Compression Ratio: 9.5:1 Timing System Timing System: Timing Belt Driven Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) Oil Capacity Oil Capacity: 5.7 US Quarts (5.4 Liters) with filter change Recommended Oil Recommended Oil: SAE 5W-30 API Service Category SG or SH (check manual for specific Toyota/Lexus certified oils) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT-i) Optional Transmission Optional: N/A (Only automatic offered) Features Transmission Features: ECT-i (Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence) providing adaptive shift logic, Power/Normal modes. Transmission Fluid Transmission Fluid: Toyota Genuine ATF Type T-III or equivalent (check manual for exact specification) Transmission Fluid Capacity Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approximately 3.7 US Quarts (3.5 Liters) for refill after drain and fill. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 196.7 inches (4996 mm) Width: 71.7 inches (1821 mm) Height: 55.5 inches (1410 mm) Wheelbase: 112.2 inches (2850 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3,700 - 3,850 lbs (1678 - 1746 kg), depending on options. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approximately 4,600 lbs (2087 kg) Interior Front Headroom: 39.0 inches (991 mm) Front Legroom: 43.7 inches (1110 mm) Rear Headroom: 37.5 inches (953 mm) Rear Legroom: 38.1 inches (968 mm) Cargo Trunk Volume: Approximately 15.2 cubic feet (430 liters) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver: 4-Star (for 1998 model year, where tested) NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger: 4-Star (for 1998 model year, where tested) Active Features Active Features: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TRAC). Passive Features Passive Features: Driver and front passenger airbags, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cabin, seatbelt pretensioners. Brakes Front Brakes: Ventilated Discs Rear Brakes: Ventilated Discs Wheels Tires Standard Wheel Size: 16-inch alloy Standard Tire Size: 215/60R16 Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3mm (5x4.5 inches) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Premium audio system (often Nakamichi or Pioneer branded), cassette player, optional CD player, optional navigation system (early generation). Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Traction Control (TRAC), optional Adaptive Variable Air Suspension (AVS) allowing for adjustable ride height and firmness. Connectivity Connectivity Options: Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on integrated audio and climate controls. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Check manual for severe conditions. Engine Air Filter Replacement: Approximately every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection. Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Approximately every 15,000-30,000...
Third Generation (XF30 - although this refers to the 1998 model which is the end of the second generation)
Codes
Vin Prefix:
JTF
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Market Position:
The Lexus LS400 was positioned as a flagship luxury sedan, directly competing with established European brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW. It emphasized refined comfort, quiet operation, and exceptional build quality.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Jaguar XJ. The LS400 distinguished itself with Japanese reliability and a focus on owner satisfaction, often surpassing its German rivals in build quality and perceived durability.
Key Features
Key Features:
V8 engine, premium interior materials, advanced features for its time (e.g., optional navigation, adaptive air suspension), exceptionally quiet ride, and legendary Lexus reliability.
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Removal & Installation, Reassembly, Adjustment Procedures, Repair Techniques, Torque Specifications, Electrical System Diagnosis, Wiring Harness Repair, HVAC System Service, Body Panel Repair, Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI), Final Assembly Checks.
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
In-depth: Covers everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electronic diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Includes detailed schematics and wiring diagrams.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
Proprietary software or PDF (searchable and printable)
Print Quality
Print Quality:
N/A (Digital Format)
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Primary Engine:
4.0L DOHC 32-Valve V8
Performance
Horsepower:
260 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
270 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Displacement
Engine Displacement:
3969 cc
Engine Bore Stroke
Engine Bore Stroke:
87.5 mm x 111 mm
Compression Ratio
Compression Ratio:
9.5:1
Timing System
Timing System:
Timing Belt Driven Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC)
Oil Capacity
Oil Capacity:
5.7 US Quarts (5.4 Liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil
Recommended Oil:
SAE 5W-30 API Service Category SG or SH (check manual for specific Toyota/Lexus certified oils)
Toyota Genuine ATF Type T-III or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
Transmission Fluid Capacity
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 3.7 US Quarts (3.5 Liters) for refill after drain and fill.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
196.7 inches (4996 mm)
Width:
71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Height:
55.5 inches (1410 mm)
Wheelbase:
112.2 inches (2850 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,700 - 3,850 lbs (1678 - 1746 kg), depending on options.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4,600 lbs (2087 kg)
Interior
Front Headroom:
39.0 inches (991 mm)
Front Legroom:
43.7 inches (1110 mm)
Rear Headroom:
37.5 inches (953 mm)
Rear Legroom:
38.1 inches (968 mm)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 15.2 cubic feet (430 liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-Star (for 1998 model year, where tested)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-Star (for 1998 model year, where tested)
Active Features
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TRAC).
Passive Features
Passive Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cabin, seatbelt pretensioners.
Brakes
Front Brakes:
Ventilated Discs
Rear Brakes:
Ventilated Discs
Wheels Tires
Standard Wheel Size:
16-inch alloy
Standard Tire Size:
215/60R16
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3mm (5x4.5 inches)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Premium audio system (often Nakamichi or Pioneer branded), cassette player, optional CD player, optional navigation system (early generation).
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Traction Control (TRAC), optional Adaptive Variable Air Suspension (AVS) allowing for adjustable ride height and firmness.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on integrated audio and climate controls.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Check manual for severe conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually (if equipped).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs typically last around 60,000-100,000 miles. Refer to manual for specific type and interval.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Recommended every 90,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Fluid Specifications
Coolant:
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water). Check manual for specific type and color.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check cap or manual for confirmation)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent (check manual)
Known Issues
Known Issues:
Common issues can include sagging headliner, occasional starter motor issues, and potential radiator leaks or hose degradation over time. Some early models may have experienced VVT-i sensor issues, though less common on the 1UZ-FE in this year. Suspension components and catalytic converters can also require attention with age and mileage.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Lexus was established by Toyota in 1989 with the goal of creating a premium global luxury brand. The LS400 was its inaugural model, designed to compete directly with the best luxury sedans worldwide.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The 1998 LS400 represents the culmination of the second generation (XF20). It featured a significant facelift from the first generation, including updated styling, a more powerful engine, and improved technology. This model laid the groundwork for the redesigned third generation introduced in 1999.
Production
Production Years:
1989-1994 (1st Gen), 1994-1997 (2nd Gen - facelift model in 1995), 1997-2000 (Final 2nd Gen facelift model - 1998 model year is within this range).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
Consistently praised for its build quality, reliability, and quiet operation by automotive journalists and consumer surveys of its era. Often cited as a benchmark for luxury sedan refinement.
Ratings
Ratings:
High consumer satisfaction ratings for reliability and durability throughout its production run.