🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Lexus Model: LS400 Year: 1997 Codes Chassis Code: UCF20 (long wheelbase - LWB), UCF21 (standard wheelbase) Engine Code: 1UZ-FE 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The 1997 Lexus LS400 represented the pinnacle of Japanese luxury sedans, offering exceptional refinement, advanced technology for its era, and legendary reliability. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed directly with luxury stalwarts like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Jaguar XJ. Key Features Features: Whisper-quiet V8 engine, sophisticated suspension, opulent interior, advanced safety features, and meticulous build quality. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: Comprehensive service and repair for the 1997 Lexus LS400. Page Count Estimated Pages: Approximately 1500+ pages (typical for official dealer service manuals) Manual Type Type: Official Factory Service Manual (Software) Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system. Drivetrain: Transmission (automatic), driveshafts, differentials, axles. Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires. Electrical: Engine control (ECM), transmission control (TCM), lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, audio system, SRS (airbag) system, climate control electronics. Body: Body panel repair, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, locks, bumpers, exterior trim. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections. Diagnosis: Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics. Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems. Overhaul: Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including component specifications and tolerances. Wiring Diagrams: Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems. Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level technical information, covering diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Compatibility: Requires specific software installation, compatibility with Windows OS typically. Print Quality Printability: Printable pages for physical reference. Binding Type Binding: Not Applicable (Software) Paper Type Paper: Not Applicable (Software) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: 4.0L DOHC 32-valve V8 (1UZ-FE) Displacement: 3969 cc Performance Horsepower: 260 hp @ 5400 rpm Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Fuel System Induction: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher) Cooling System Coolant Type: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water) Lubrication System Oil Capacity: 6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) with filter Recommended Oil Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (ECT) Transmission Fluid Type: Toyota ATF Type T-IV (or equivalent as specified in manual) Features Features: Normal, Power, and Snow modes. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 197.2 inches (UCF21) / 200.6 inches (UCF20 LWB) Width: 71.7 inches Height: 55.3 inches Wheelbase: 112.2 inches (UCF21) / 115.7 inches (UCF20 LWB) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3836 lbs (UCF21) / 3913 lbs (UCF20 LWB) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approximately 4800 lbs 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Front Impact: 4-star NHTSA Passenger Front Impact: 4-star Active Features Traction Control: Yes (TRAC - Traction Control System) ABS: Yes (Anti-lock Braking System) Electronic Brake Force Distribution: Yes (Integrated with ABS) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System) Seatbelts: Front pretensioner seatbelts, rear 3-point seatbelts. Child Seat Anchors: Rear lower anchors and tethers for children (LATCH) system not standard, but provisions may exist. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Optional Nakamichi premium audio system with cassette and CD player, typically 7-9 speakers. Navigation: Optional GPS navigation system available on some models, typically with a CRT screen. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard Adaptive Cruise Control (Dynamic Cruise Control) was an option on some models. Parking Assist: Rear parking assist sensors optional on some models. Climate Control System Type: Automatic climate control with dual-zone capability and pollen filter. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Transmission Fluid Change Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 36 months (recommended). Engine Air Filter Replacement: Every 30,000 miles or 36 months. Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles or 18 months (if equipped). Spark Plug Replacement: Iridium spark plugs: 100,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Power Steering Fluid Type: ATF Dexron II (or equivalent as specified in manual) Known Issues Common Problems: Eccentric shaft sensor failure (causing no-start condition), fuel pump failure, dashboard cracks (UV exposure), suspension component wear (ball joints, bushings), window regulator issues, coolant leaks from plastic components. Timing Belt Vs Chain: The 1UZ-FE engine uses a timing belt, requiring replacement typically every 90,000 miles or 9 years. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Heritage: Lexus was established by Toyota Motor Corporation in 1989 with the goal of creating a luxury brand that rivaled established European marques. Model Evolution Generation: Second generation (XF20), introduced for the 1995 model year. The 1997 model is a mid-cycle refresh with minor updates. Production Manufacturing Location: Tahara Plant, Aichi Prefecture, Japan...
The 1997 Lexus LS400 represented the pinnacle of Japanese luxury sedans, offering exceptional refinement, advanced technology for its era, and legendary reliability.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed directly with luxury stalwarts like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Jaguar XJ.
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Engine control (ECM), transmission control (TCM), lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, audio system, SRS (airbag) system, climate control electronics.