🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Lexus Model: SC300 Year: 1998 Body Style: Coupe 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Positioning: Luxury Grand Tourer, targeting discerning buyers seeking performance, comfort, and reliability Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Mazda RX-7 (FD), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, Porsche 944/968 Key Features Platform: Shared platform with the Toyota Supra (A80), focusing on RWD dynamics and robust engineering Design Philosophy: Elegant, timeless styling with a focus on driver comfort and a refined driving experience Target Audience: Individuals appreciating Japanese engineering, luxury appointments, and a smooth yet powerful driving experience 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive service and repair for all vehicle systems Page Count Estimated Page Count: Over 1500 pages (typical for a full factory service manual) Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Software Format: Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: 2JZ-GE (3.0L Naturally Aspirated Inline-6) Engine Management: ECU, EFI, ignition system, emissions control (OBD-II diagnostics) Fuel System: Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP) Transmission: A340E 4-speed Automatic Transmission Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive, differential, axles, driveshaft Suspension: Front double wishbone, rear multi-link, shock absorbers, springs, bushings Steering: Power-assisted rack and pinion, steering column, components Brakes: Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, horn, power accessories HVAC: Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control system Body Interior: Interior trim, seating, dashboard, door panels, convertible top (if applicable) Body Exterior: Body panels, bumpers, glass, seals, latches, hinges Body Chassis: Frame, unibody structure, mounting points Safety Systems: Airbags, seat belts, ABS Procedures Included Diagnostics: Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul Engine Rebuild: Complete engine overhaul procedures, including specifications and clearances Transmission Overhaul: Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the automatic transmission Brake Service: Disc brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, brake caliper service, ABS bleeding Electrical Repair: Wiring diagrams, component testing, fault tracing for all electrical systems Suspension Alignment: Wheel alignment specifications and procedures Airbag Service: Safety precautions and procedures for handling airbag components Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format Details: Searchable text within PDFs, potential for interactive diagrams and schematics Print Quality Print Quality Suitability: High-resolution for clear printing of diagrams, illustrations, and text Binding Type Binding Type N/A: N/A (Software format) Paper Type Paper Type N/A: N/A (Software format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 2JZ-GE Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder Displacement: 3.0 Liters (2997 cc) Bore X Stroke: 86.0 mm x 86.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Valve Train: DOHC, 24 Valves (4 valves per cylinder), VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) introduced in 1997+ Performance Horsepower: 225 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate, US spec) Torque: 210 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (approximate, US spec) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended) Engine Oil Capacity: 5.7 US Quarts (5.4 Liters) with filter change Recommended Oil Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: A340E 4-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission Optional Optional Transmission: 5-speed Manual Transmission (V160/V161 Getrag gearbox for some models, especially later ones with 2JZ-GTE option, but this manual specifies SC300) Features Transmission Fluid Type: Dexron II or Dexron III (Check manual for exact specification) Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approximately 4.0 US Quarts (3.8 Liters) for pan drop and fill 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 191.1 inches (4854 mm) Width: 70.5 inches (1791 mm) Height: 52.6 inches (1336 mm) Wheelbase: 109.4 inches (2779 mm) Front Track: 60.6 inches (1539 mm) Rear Track: 60.2 inches (1529 mm) Weights Curb Weight: 3560 - 3630 lbs (1615 - 1647 kg) depending on options Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (Gvwr): Approximately 4400 lbs (1996 kg) Towing Capacity: Not Recommended Cargo Cargo Volume: Approximately 8.7 cubic feet (246 liters) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not extensively rated by modern standards, but built to high safety standards of its era. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Optional Traction Control System (TCS) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags Seat Belts: 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters, rear 3-point seat belts Body Structure: Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Premium Nakamichi sound system with CD changer capability (optional) or cassette/AM/FM radio. Climate Control: Automatic Climate Control with digital display. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control. Connectivity Telematics: No advanced telematics or smartphone integration typical of modern vehicles. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or...
5-speed Manual Transmission (V160/V161 Getrag gearbox for some models, especially later ones with 2JZ-GTE option, but this manual specifies SC300)
Features
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron II or Dexron III (Check manual for exact specification)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 US Quarts (3.8 Liters) for pan drop and fill
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
191.1 inches (4854 mm)
Width:
70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
52.6 inches (1336 mm)
Wheelbase:
109.4 inches (2779 mm)
Front Track:
60.6 inches (1539 mm)
Rear Track:
60.2 inches (1529 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
3560 - 3630 lbs (1615 - 1647 kg) depending on options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (Gvwr):
Approximately 4400 lbs (1996 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not Recommended
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
Approximately 8.7 cubic feet (246 liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not extensively rated by modern standards, but built to high safety standards of its era.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters, rear 3-point seat belts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Premium Nakamichi sound system with CD changer capability (optional) or cassette/AM/FM radio.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control with digital display.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Connectivity
Telematics:
No advanced telematics or smartphone integration typical of modern vehicles.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically 30,000 miles / 48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect/replace annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs recommended replacement around 100,000 miles (160,000 km). Check manual for specific type.
Timing Belt:
This engine uses a timing belt. Interval is typically 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 7 years. Critical to replace.
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent silicate-free, pink/red ethylene glycol coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Check manual for precise specification)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or III ATF
Known Issues
Common Issues:
Minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and front/rear main seals. ABS actuator issues (common on many older Lexus/Toyota models). Plastic components degrading over time (e.g., headlight actuators, interior trim). Fuel pump and injector issues can arise with age. Timing belt replacement is crucial for engine longevity.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Lexus Founding:
Founded in 1989 by Toyota Motor Corporation as a luxury marque.
Model Evolution
Sc Series Debut:
The SC series debuted in 1991 (as a 1992 model) with the SC400 (V8) and SC300 (inline-6), based on the platform of the Z30 Soarer.
First Generation Production:
1991-2000
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Motomachi Plant, Toyota City, Japan
Production Numbers Approx:
Total first-gen production: ~70,000 units. SC300/SC400 split varied by year.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Annual 10Best:
While the SC300/SC400 were not explicitly named to Car and Driver's 10Best, they were highly regarded for their luxury, performance, and build quality, often appearing in comparison tests favorably against competitors.