🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Lexus Model: LS400 Year: 1999 Codes Chassis Code: UCF20/UCF21 Engine Code: 1UZ-FE 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: The 1999 Lexus LS400 (UCF20 generation) represented the pinnacle of Lexus's luxury sedan offerings for its era. It competed directly with established German luxury marques such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series, as well as American and British luxury sedans. Its positioning emphasized quietness, refinement, reliability, and a high level of standard features. Competitive Analysis Competitive Analysis: The LS400's primary competition in 1999 included the Mercedes-Benz W140 S-Class, BMW E38 7 Series, Jaguar XJ (X300), and Cadillac DeVille. The LS400 was generally lauded for its superior reliability, build quality, and lower maintenance costs compared to its European counterparts, while offering comparable or superior levels of luxury and performance. Key Features Key Features: The 1999 LS400 is characterized by its V8 engine, exceptionally quiet and smooth ride, luxurious interior appointments, advanced (for its time) safety features, and legendary Lexus reliability. This generation (UCF20) saw styling refinements and powertrain updates from the previous generation. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Areas: Complete Service and Repair Page Count Page Count: Over 1500 pages (estimated for comprehensive software) Manual Type Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Software (likely digital, searchable format like PDF or proprietary executable) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Systems Covered: Engine mechanical, Engine management (EFI), Transmission (automatic), Driveline, Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Fuel system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Electrical system (including charging, starting, lighting, ignition), Climate control, Body and frame, Interior systems, Body electrical, Exterior lighting, Diagnostic procedures, Troubleshooting charts, Wiring diagrams, Specifications and data Procedures Included Procedures Included: Routine maintenance, Scheduled maintenance, Inspection procedures, Diagnosis and troubleshooting of all systems, Engine repair (including overhaul, timing belt replacement, cylinder head service), Transmission overhaul and repair, Brake system repair (including ABS component replacement), Suspension component replacement, Steering system repair, Electrical component testing and replacement, HVAC system repair, Body panel repair and alignment, Interior trim removal and installation, Body electrical diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) interpretation and resolution Technical Depth Technical Depth: Comprehensive and detailed, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed component descriptions, disassembly/reassembly procedures, torque specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, and schematics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Digital Software (likely PDF, .exe, or similar searchable format). Expect high-resolution diagrams and text. Print Quality Print Quality: N/A (Software - intended for digital viewing, but printable sections are likely of high quality). Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Software - no physical binding). Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Software - no physical paper). ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated V8 Displacement: 4.0 Liters (3969 cc) Valvetrain: DOHC 32-valve (Four Camshafts) Bore X Stroke: 87.5 mm x 82.5 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Horsepower: 290 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended) Performance 0-60 Mph: Approx. 7.0-7.5 seconds Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection Engine Control Unit: Toyota Engine Control System (TECS) Throttle Body: Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) - Drive-by-Wire 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (ECT) Transmission Features: Snow Mode, Power Mode, Lock-up Torque Converter Optional Optional Transmission: N/A (Only Automatic Transmission was offered for 1999 LS400) Features Transmission Fluid Type: Dexron III/Mercon (or equivalent ATF) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 197.0 inches (4999 mm) Width: 71.7 inches (1821 mm) Height: 55.3 inches (1405 mm) Wheelbase: 112.2 inches (2850 mm) Front Track: 61.4 inches (1560 mm) Rear Track: 60.8 inches (1545 mm) Ground Clearance: Approx. 5.7 inches (145 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3,759 lbs (1705 kg) (depending on options) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 4,600 lbs (2087 kg) Towing Capacity: Not Recommended/Designed for towing 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 5-Star (Likely for driver and passenger in frontal crash) IIHS Side Impact: Good (Estimated based on contemporaneous testing and vehicle design) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Standard Traction Control System (TRAC) Electronic Brakeforce Distribution: Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) integrated with ABS Passive Features Airbags: Dual Front Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags Seatbelts: 3-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, 3-point rear seatbelts Body Structure: Reinforced safety cage construction, Crumple zones Other Features: Anti-theft alarm system with engine immobilizer 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Optional premium audio system with CD player and cassette tape deck. Some models may have an optional Nakamichi sound system. Display: Center console-mounted LCD display for climate control and audio information. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Cruise Control, Automatic Climate Control with pollen filter, Optional Navigation System (late models) Connectivity Connectivity Features: N/A (No modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity) - primarily analog systems. Other Technology Other Technology: HID Headlights (optional), Power adjustable steering column...
The 1999 Lexus LS400 (UCF20 generation) represented the pinnacle of Lexus's luxury sedan offerings for its era. It competed directly with established German luxury marques such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series, as well as American and British luxury sedans. Its positioning emphasized quietness, refinement, reliability, and a high level of standard features.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
The LS400's primary competition in 1999 included the Mercedes-Benz W140 S-Class, BMW E38 7 Series, Jaguar XJ (X300), and Cadillac DeVille. The LS400 was generally lauded for its superior reliability, build quality, and lower maintenance costs compared to its European counterparts, while offering comparable or superior levels of luxury and performance.
Key Features
Key Features:
The 1999 LS400 is characterized by its V8 engine, exceptionally quiet and smooth ride, luxurious interior appointments, advanced (for its time) safety features, and legendary Lexus reliability. This generation (UCF20) saw styling refinements and powertrain updates from the previous generation.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Areas:
Complete Service and Repair
Page Count
Page Count:
Over 1500 pages (estimated for comprehensive software)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Software (likely digital, searchable format like PDF or proprietary executable)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, Engine management (EFI), Transmission (automatic), Driveline, Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Fuel system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Electrical system (including charging, starting, lighting, ignition), Climate control, Body and frame, Interior systems, Body electrical, Exterior lighting, Diagnostic procedures, Troubleshooting charts, Wiring diagrams, Specifications and data
Procedures Included
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, Scheduled maintenance, Inspection procedures, Diagnosis and troubleshooting of all systems, Engine repair (including overhaul, timing belt replacement, cylinder head service), Transmission overhaul and repair, Brake system repair (including ABS component replacement), Suspension component replacement, Steering system repair, Electrical component testing and replacement, HVAC system repair, Body panel repair and alignment, Interior trim removal and installation, Body electrical diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) interpretation and resolution
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive and detailed, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed component descriptions, disassembly/reassembly procedures, torque specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, and schematics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF, .exe, or similar searchable format). Expect high-resolution diagrams and text.
Print Quality
Print Quality:
N/A (Software - intended for digital viewing, but printable sections are likely of high quality).
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Software - no physical binding).
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Software - no physical paper).
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
4.0 Liters (3969 cc)
Valvetrain:
DOHC 32-valve (Four Camshafts)
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 82.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
290 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Performance
0-60 Mph:
Approx. 7.0-7.5 seconds
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection
N/A (Only Automatic Transmission was offered for 1999 LS400)
Features
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III/Mercon (or equivalent ATF)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
197.0 inches (4999 mm)
Width:
71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Height:
55.3 inches (1405 mm)
Wheelbase:
112.2 inches (2850 mm)
Front Track:
61.4 inches (1560 mm)
Rear Track:
60.8 inches (1545 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.7 inches (145 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,759 lbs (1705 kg) (depending on options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,600 lbs (2087 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not Recommended/Designed for towing
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Likely for driver and passenger in frontal crash)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (Estimated based on contemporaneous testing and vehicle design)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TRAC)
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) integrated with ABS
Passive Features
Airbags:
Dual Front Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, 3-point rear seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage construction, Crumple zones
Other Features:
Anti-theft alarm system with engine immobilizer
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Optional premium audio system with CD player and cassette tape deck. Some models may have an optional Nakamichi sound system.
Display:
Center console-mounted LCD display for climate control and audio information.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Automatic Climate Control with pollen filter, Optional Navigation System (late models)
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity) - primarily analog systems.
Other Technology
Other Technology:
HID Headlights (optional), Power adjustable steering column with memory, Rain-sensing intermittent wipers (optional)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first, using synthetic oil)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped: Every 100,000 miles
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 miles or 9 years (Critical Component - consult manual for specific procedure)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (consult manual for specific procedure and fluid type)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher, ILSAC GF-2 or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.4 US quarts (6.1 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) - Pink
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 9.8 US quarts (9.3 liters)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon ATF or genuine Lexus Power Steering Fluid
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified for ABS components)
Known Issues
Known Issues:
Some common issues include: minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil cooler lines, potential failure of the mass air flow (MAF) sensor leading to rough idle or stalling, occasional issues with ABS/TRAC warning lights due to wheel speed sensor problems, and potential aging of suspension bushings leading to reduced ride comfort. The timing belt is a critical maintenance item and failure can be catastrophic.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, was established in 1989 with the introduction of the LS400, which quickly set new benchmarks for luxury, quality, and reliability in the automotive industry. This established Lexus as a major player in the global luxury market.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The 1999 LS400 is part of the second generation (UCF20) of the LS model, which debuted for the 1995 model year. This generation featured a more aerodynamic design, updated interior, and improvements to the powertrain and chassis. The 1999 model year received a significant facelift, including a power increase for the V8 engine, revised exterior styling, and enhanced interior features.
Production
Production Years:
Second Generation (UCF20/UCF21): 1995-2000
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
The LS400 (across its generations) consistently ranked high in customer satisfaction surveys, particularly from J.D. Power and Associates, for its reliability and build quality. It was often cited as a benchmark for luxury sedan refinement and dependability during its production run.
Ratings
Ratings:
Consistently received high ratings for dependability and initial quality in automotive publications and consumer surveys throughout the late 1990s.
Certifications
Certifications:
Certified by Lexus for meeting all required manufacturing and safety standards.
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