I want to say a few things. First, I have an LS400 and have owned it for almost 2 years now. Its not slammed or even lowered at all. If you want to buy this car because of the fact that it is an amazing car that rides good, has power, and looks great. Then buy it! No one ever said you have to slam it to the group and VIP the damn car. JUST ENJOY IT, ITS A GREAT CAR. :) Second, I average 21 - 22MPG ALL THE TIME. I don't know why the hell your getting 16mpg in this car. Are you flooring it all over the place? Bad fuel filter or injectors or plugs?? Third, The fenders don't need to be rolled so I feel like this shouldn't be a negative. Stop rolling fenders and you wont have this issue lol. The last point is about how hard it is to find parts and how expensive it is. The is honestly a good thing if you ask me. If you have a car with everything you could ever want at the push of a button it kinda makes it less cool, The fact that you really need to work hard and take your time to build it just makes it that much better. Moral of this post is that the LS400 is a great classic car and you feel good driving it. It doesn't need to be slammed and bagged just to enjoy this car. Its an amazing daily!!!
Finally some one understand the beauty of owning one am driving it for 10 years now every day am loving it more❤ Drove it a couple of years stock then whent for vip Runs as good as new in 2020 One of the best cars ever built that gose with the 1uz-fe.. its engine 👑
Nefarious CJ well clearly this video wasn’t for the grandpas that just wanna drive a stock LS400 😂 it doesn’t take a genius to look at the damn thumbnail image and realise it has a slammed af, tilted wheel vip car...
@@ddjohnson9717 my friend am loving life with one.. all what you got to do is add a controller to the hydronic / air bag that comes stock, since mine is golden color i chose a golden tint on the window park the car with one click all 4 on the floor legit VIP right there buddy😉👌
@@LEPAutomotive well in this case you should've put it out there on the title. I got one VIP style its way better than the fule economy you got there.. i think you got a problem with your car.. And you were super dramatic about it by the way🤣 Over all good vedio👌
@@jesusmarquez9948 unnecessary modifications that only creates a disadvantage in ride comfort, try going over a speed bump with that. Overall it really looks ugly if it was stock then yeah, I'm taking it
I bought my LS 400 new in August 1992. Still driving it with pleasure almost 30 years later. Didn't watch the video,--didn't need it to know this is far and away the best car I've ever owned. Hope to drive it til I die.
I have an LS400 with 376k miles on it, I got it around 100k miles 10+ years ago. These cars go to a million miles, and that's not the exception, that's the standard. I've driven this car like an asshole and gone 140 MPH on the highway and have accelerated fast etc. I never got worse than 19 mpg city doing all of that. My recent tank averages are 26 mpg. I have averaged 31 mpg a handful of times coasting on slight inclines on highways. This car is awesome, idk why you ruined it spending all this unnecessary money trying to tokoyo drift everywhere. Clearly 16 mpg is your fault from what you did to it. These aren't valid reasons not to buy the car. This is like buying a Toyota Tundra and saying you shouldn't buy it because it can't tow over 10,000 pounds. It's not a semi, and this isn't meant to be a street car. But they can both be reliable and cheap alternatives.
LS400 is A wonderful car it Got Me And My Homie Thru 8 Summers Especially After He Put Those 22s on it....Dam near 340.000 Original miles Dam Good Car....
Look for the older people and be willing to travel, got a 96 with brand new rack and pinion, vacuum lines, water pump, timing belt and pulleys replaced, starter, power steering pump for $2900 all it needed was a thermal fan clutch and the coolant to be redone. Her son used it when he came home from college to get around town and she had no use for it anymore ! You’ll get one they’re amazing :)
PB&J Racing • 13 years ago i recommend facebook marketplace and offerup, craigslist never really has anything nowadays besides car dealerships selling on the website and using false tags to get views. Gotta always have the setting to newest listing first on those apps i said aswell, thats how you find good deals.
For the 94 im looking at stock, im not looking at modding it away from stock, just replacing parts keeping it clean. Giving it a little lift for clearence issues and staying with an unmolested build :)
These cars are great, but you are right that these take time. Something as simple as finding that 2 tone trim piece. But with some coilovers, some Oem wheels from a different car that are cheap and some extra difficult bushing replacements these things are a blast to drive. And will sit really great.
I don't know what he is talking about, parts are available everywhere, he may live where no parts for his car are available, but we find them everywhere in Orange County CA. I love mine and runs beautifully and worth a lot more then he mentions.
Really because I’m “SERIOUSLY” considering one but, I was scared of parts being scarce for the car. Where can I get an abundance of parts for the car??
Totaled my old 04’ Jeep Liberty on an extremely undermarked and dangerous dirt road... planning on getting an LS400, preferably a 98-00 model. Can’t wait to get my hands on this beauty of a car.
I feel this spiritually. I've had my ls400 for more than a year, and I've only been able to do coilovers. Granted I'm broke as shit, but the market is straight ass, and some of the forums are 5-10+ years old and are really hard to find support. Still I love my lexus.
I have to agree with the "what's he talking about"...Have owned my LS400 for over 20 years & with ANY car things happen, more with poorly built cars.Gas mi. is great for a V8 engine & I don't know what he was doing with his Lexus but 16 MPG?? even city no less than 20mpg in mines lifetime. see ya at half a million.
Soooo many good points not just with a Ls but just in general with the newer generation wanting instant gratification over doing stupid quick shit to a car that has a thousand parts for it in stock already. Just keep doing what your doing man because you’ve been killing it. But I definitely enjoyed this video!!
I’m planning on buying one on Sunday and I’m in it for the long run I have started to look for certain things and he isn’t wrong but everything come with time thank you for the warnings
You have the best looking LS400 imo. This car inspired me to get an LS400 and VIP it. And guess what im not even into air suspension and camber stancenation thing but this..i just cant say no to it. Keep up the good sht man! been lovin the videos and the car.
XanXiety Marketplace on Facebook, Craigslist or local listings. They are there, you can find them for under 5 grand if you search good enough. Well kept maintained ones are going 4k+ nowadays, these cars hold their value. Hope you find one soon my guy! Good time to do it now. Who knows in the next few years price may climb up.
My bro passed a month ago and left a ‘97 ls400 that is currently under construction. It looks good, getting there all in all fun car to drive. I didn’t roll my fenders I phone booked it
Just saying this is the best car ever I had one it went over 1mil miles and the engine is still fine! The engine is been used for a drift car now these cars are SO RELIABLE
Great video.. You nailed it, this is not a car or vip in general for "clout" or ig likes status.. These builds are for the enthusiast and true vipcar builds..
Based on my own LS build, I can vouch for this list. Very few parts were available in the US and most had to be sourced from Japan. Bottom line... there's no such thing as a budget VIP build on an LS 🤔
Real talk bruh!!! Loved it! This generation is a "Me First, ask questions later"...lazy shanks! Work 1st, play later, that's how it is and ALWAYS will be!!! Tell it like is Cuzz!
I still want one just because of the 1UZ itself. As for what I'd do to one, probably a slight drop in ride height and some wheels, if I can afford it after rust repairs.
Talking about fuel economy on a v8 is like looking for sportiness in a prius... it makes no sense. This is a great car and its gaining hype for a reason. Its still more reliable than most cars on the road, especially the engine. There is a guy here in the uk that built one of these to 700+hp and even in that form its reliable (obviously with the right upgrades to support it) so just proves how massively over engineered this car was when it came out. There is a reason it beat the shit out of mercedes back in the day.
So which one is better for a VIP build? LS400 or LS430? I found out that in my country the 430 is cheaper to insure, cheaper to buy and it has slightly better mileage than the 400 but i think the 400 looks better
I can completely agree!!! I have been a LS400 owner since 98 mainly ucf10. Incredible cars but they all started VIP but due to time they slide into drift mode with ease. That’s a solid looking ride. Solid 2¢ video!!!
VIP and Drift style... Why always the same with these LEXUS models? Some nice *period correct* chrome 19" or 20" wheels on it, and it's done! Keep it simple and classy like a LEXUS is supposed to be! ✌
I own a 1997 Lexus LS400 I bought at a car auction in 2000 for about $22,500. I have 371,000 miles on the car with the original engine and original transmission; I would say that is pretty good ! I use a Synthetic oil mixed in with Lucas Oil Stabilizer and change it regularly. I am still going to milk it, since the 400 in the LS400 stands for 400K miles !! I have never had a car last as long as this one ! My power steering went out and I found Scotty Kilmer's video on how to repair the issue (bad switch on the power steering reservoir - cost me $40) The paint is really starting to go, the blower motor for the climate control is going out, but I can fix that for about $38-$50. That's not too bad. I removed the valve cover, since it was leaking, and replaced the gasket for about $50. The inside was very very clean with no gunk at all ! The synthetic oil mixed in with the stabilizer is probably the reason. The valves are noisy but it runs well. There is a leak in the power steering; I poured in a bottle of Blue Devil stop leak and it has been working like that for about 3 weeks. I will probably have to replace a high pressure hose; that can't be too hard. All fun stuff and it is a very good car..... however, it does use gas and here in the Bay Area, with gas at $5.39 per gallon... ouch !! I need a good hybrid !!
I had a mint 2000 LS400 Platinum Edition with the black interior. Unfortunately, some speeding rear ended me while I was turning into my neighborhood. Car is total loss... It got me through beautiful trips and rides. The car is a tank!!
It's crazy, I think a good bit of older Lexus are like this. I managed to slam a 98 Es300, and let me tell you it's wayy harder to find parts for it rather than, say, an Infiniti G35 lol I had to do a lot of cutting, modifying coilovers springs, slotting coilovers mounts, rewiring and tucking harnesses, buying more coilovers because of lowering limits of other brands. No extended control arms, adjustable uppers and lowers, BCs dont go low enough, etc. .. I now have an Ls430 and am going through some of the same things, but not as bad lol
I'm excited. I'm getting a first gen LS400. I mainly wanna keep it stock. Maybe add a supercharger or turbo at some point in the future when I'm more financially stable. I just love toyota V8s. The main reason I want it. One day I'd love to own a RCF or LCF haha
Thank god i have a friend who specializes in LS400’s and always helps me build it and has hella parts cause he’s rebuilt 6 of them and got them all on the road
Had a 1992 ls400 for my first car and absolutely loved it! so nice to drive and so reliable. Sad lost it to a lady running a stop sign and ramming my passenger side but always dreamed of slamming it and putting wheels on it. Trying to get another one and like you said, Cant find squat for that car. Its sooo expensive
Love my UCF10 sitting on bbs with BC racing coil overs...planning on getting Cusco LSD and bullet car supercharger in the future ... Love your model...it’s still a timeless looking car.
I absolutely love my Ls400.... BUT, he is right, there are no aftermarket parts, and if you are lucky enough to find them they are expensive. Get used to custom work or diy. They're amazing cars but patience is needed. I've had mine for almost 5 years now and i finally found a nice set of headlights for $300...... Made in 1998 lol. But dont let it stop you from buying, they really are a pleasure. Happy Modding!
Good thing I bought it to just stage 0 and daily it lmao. Just found a 95' LS400 last week for $1400 @156k miles. No check engine and drives fine so far
If not LS400 (my favourite is the 1st version, the oldest without VVTi..) how about GS300 gen 2 with VVTi 2JZ? Thinking about leaving Honda game, not pleased anymore even my ’03 R does 0-60 in 6 seconds and easily goes 160 mph. Trying to find a reliable, less racey, daily cruising car..
What you just talked about is so true. I have a have owned my 91 for 10 years, kept stock but yes $$$$$. Still runs great but due to yes....parts & shotty mechanics have it serviced & maintained with Lexus again. And yes even they have to wait for parts from Japan but usually about 2 weeks & more $$$$$. Good honest video 😂!
You can also just buy it at $4000 and enjoy the softness of the OEM airsuspension, or the OEM dampers, avoid the whole VIP thing and have a really nice car which always starts... and you'll even stand out from the crowd cuz everyone bags and uses the road as a cargrater.
Okay so my opinion on the things ur saying: 1) I never saw someone irl driving one so its not a really common car where i live 2) It drives gas, the cheapest you can drive in my country 3) The fenders problem ill try to solve myself for a car with so much pros theres gotta be at least one con 4) I have a good connection with my dads garagist and he only does toyota and lexus stuff so he can get hes hands on some good parts 5) of course its gonna be expensive but thats a sacrifice im willing to make for such a car and it wont lose as much worth right?
It's a lie,I have an LS400 takes 20 gallons in the tank and gives me between 21 to 23 miles per gallon and runs better than an impala or a regular Mustang, It's very comfortable it's stable and to be a 90" car works better and has more luxuries than a ford or a Chevrolet, I dare compare it to Audi, Mercedes benz or a BMW and of course because it's a foreign(Imported)car is little harder and more expensive by the parts but it's worth it, mine has 400,000 miles and it's still strong
Wait untill you go looking for parts for a 18 crown athlete, next to nothing is available. I have been looking for parts for hours each day for the past year.
I have wanted one for a long time so I bought one first month I crashed it it’s been a month since then he is not lyin about the parts the only parts I need are bushings and oem have been discontinued but I love this car and this video shows me that this car is a break u or make u car too bad that I can’t abandon this car I love it too much😔
Even if you just want to be subtle. Maybe some lowering springs? Nope…better off buying stock moogs and “making” your own. I love this car though. Just bought a ‘99, and it’s definitely got it’s quirks. But I love it more every time I drive it
I have '97 ES or Toyota Windom for that matter. It costed $3500 with 400k miles on it initially but the engine's still running smooth. I'm planning to VIP it but yeah, it's costing just as much as the LS just at a smaller scale and it's already way more than the price I paid for and I'm not even halfway where I'd like it yet. Parts like bushings, steering rack and drive shaft and all those have to be ordered and replace the existing one since it's a 25 year old car. There's just a lot of stuffs to repair to make the ride smooth before getting into the cosmetic aspect. You spent $400 on the car fuel while I spend less than $200 monthly. That being said, I'm content with staying with my ES and not pursuing to get an LS after watching this video. Besides, not a lot of people tries to VIP their ES so I want to be different so there's that.
Bought mine 8 months ago for $2150 and I've definitely resented the parts availability scarcity, especially control arms. No way I'm doing a VIP build though, definitely want to keep it bone stock.
That’s how I am, I plan on eventually swapping my rims for nice chromes, but definitely not one of the VIP builds... imo the vips aren’t as cool or practical as the stock.
@@therevx5225 Agree! Some nice *period correct* chrome 19" or 20" wheels on it, and it's done! Keep it simple and classy like a LEXUS is supposed to be! ✌
Beautiful car bro, great video great editing keep it up I have a ls430 an 02 need to get her some tlc goin I think mine is a vip car it came with stock message seats that recline in the back the cooler box and a mark Levinson stereo system, new subscriber for sure keep em comin
I want one to keep it stock. Like, I'll work on it and it stuff but i only have a few years experience with cars ive only done one engine swap on my own (stock motor). Reason I want one is for the longevity, and I like big cars.
Probably going to buy one regardless... selling two vehicles out of four: 95 S14 and 72 F100 both going bye bye then buying one of these but I know a lot of car people so might be able to get ahold of parts but thank you for all the info don't know shit about these cars just started opening my eyes towards these
My previous car was an LS400 and if it was manual i would absolutely have never sold it, I actually still ride in it sometimes as I sold it to a friend, and I miss the hell out of it, it was on megan racing coilovers lowered about 2 inches of clearance and as far as drivability, i havent had a car thats easier to drive lowered meaning driveways and bumps, I never had a single mechanical issue either in the year and a half i owned it, keep in mind it had 135K I bought for 4000$
Losing my mind trying to replace the alternator. None of the videos available are quiete how my ls400 is set up. alternator won't fit through the top or bottom and there's a coolant or steering fluid pipe in every direction. That and I didnt realize that the power steering pulley sits in front of the alternator.
These are the reasons that make me appreciate them even more. The old saying "if it was easy everybody would do it" comes to mind. 👌
Exactly dude! Same reason for me, the negative connotation is just for entertainment!
exactly why ive got one sitting in the backyard slowly building up a long with the build of the daily 2GS.
your mom cuz you could buy a “million mile Lexus” n lay frame in everytime you go somewhere
your mom your mom
Why do you think you have to use the F___ word in you presentation 🥴
I want to say a few things.
First, I have an LS400 and have owned it for almost 2 years now. Its not slammed or even lowered at all. If you want to buy this car because of the fact that it is an amazing car that rides good, has power, and looks great. Then buy it! No one ever said you have to slam it to the group and VIP the damn car. JUST ENJOY IT, ITS A GREAT CAR. :)
Second, I average 21 - 22MPG ALL THE TIME. I don't know why the hell your getting 16mpg in this car. Are you flooring it all over the place? Bad fuel filter or injectors or plugs??
Third, The fenders don't need to be rolled so I feel like this shouldn't be a negative. Stop rolling fenders and you wont have this issue lol.
The last point is about how hard it is to find parts and how expensive it is. The is honestly a good thing if you ask me. If you have a car with everything you could ever want at the push of a button it kinda makes it less cool, The fact that you really need to work hard and take your time to build it just makes it that much better.
Moral of this post is that the LS400 is a great classic car and you feel good driving it. It doesn't need to be slammed and bagged just to enjoy this car. Its an amazing daily!!!
Finally some one understand the beauty of owning one am driving it for 10 years now every day am loving it more❤
Drove it a couple of years stock then whent for vip
Runs as good as new in 2020
One of the best cars ever built that gose with the 1uz-fe.. its engine 👑
I am thinking about getting a 06 07(?) LS430. More modern but still classic. NOT modding it because Im a broke ass lol
Nefarious CJ well clearly this video wasn’t for the grandpas that just wanna drive a stock LS400 😂 it doesn’t take a genius to look at the damn thumbnail image and realise it has a slammed af, tilted wheel vip car...
@@ddjohnson9717 my friend am loving life with one.. all what you got to do is add a controller to the hydronic / air bag that comes stock, since mine is golden color i chose a golden tint on the window park the car with one click all 4 on the floor legit VIP right there buddy😉👌
@@LEPAutomotive well in this case you should've put it out there on the title.
I got one VIP style its way better than the fule economy you got there.. i think you got a problem with your car..
And you were super dramatic about it by the way🤣
Over all good vedio👌
This vid: "Don't buy an LS400!"
*Shows a beautifully slammed LS400 with polished deep-dish rims*
Me: "I want it!"
It's ugly
@@vaz4043yeah the slammed one looks ugly af
same me too Owami Dlamini
vaz how?????
@@jesusmarquez9948 unnecessary modifications that only creates a disadvantage in ride comfort, try going over a speed bump with that. Overall it really looks ugly if it was stock then yeah, I'm taking it
All I want to do is lower it and buy some 3 piece wheels and daily it that’s it
exacly👍👍
And tint the windows, maybe?
samesies
BoomDaddySizzle With Junction produce curtains
Dont do it
I bought my LS 400 new in August 1992. Still driving it with pleasure almost 30 years later. Didn't watch the video,--didn't need it to know this is far and away the best car I've ever owned. Hope to drive it til I die.
That alone just convinced me to buy this as my first car at 16 years old thank you
@@quudee2238Did you get your lexus?
Now i really hope i can get a lexus soon
Bought mine at an auction for 500 bucks. It was beat to hell but me and my bro have slowly brought it along to semi presentable and runnable.
The more he talks the more fell in love with mine.. 10 years never failed me once!!
Running like a tank in 2020😎
I’m the fourth owner of mine and it runs amazing it’s a beautiful car
Bro same 😂
@@izayahhathaway9463 yo i'm thinking ab getting one. what's insurance like on it?
Just bought a ‘99 in the silver jade color. Love the fkn thing. 182k miles and super smooth
@@Still-Sitting welcome to the club 🥂
I have an LS400 with 376k miles on it, I got it around 100k miles 10+ years ago. These cars go to a million miles, and that's not the exception, that's the standard. I've driven this car like an asshole and gone 140 MPH on the highway and have accelerated fast etc. I never got worse than 19 mpg city doing all of that. My recent tank averages are 26 mpg. I have averaged 31 mpg a handful of times coasting on slight inclines on highways.
This car is awesome, idk why you ruined it spending all this unnecessary money trying to tokoyo drift everywhere. Clearly 16 mpg is your fault from what you did to it. These aren't valid reasons not to buy the car.
This is like buying a Toyota Tundra and saying you shouldn't buy it because it can't tow over 10,000 pounds. It's not a semi, and this isn't meant to be a street car. But they can both be reliable and cheap alternatives.
I personally think the way it’s personalized looks awesome and gives it a classy look
@@mikivliClassy? You must be joking?😮 Toyota should confiscate it.
LS400 is A wonderful car it Got Me And My Homie Thru 8 Summers Especially After He Put Those 22s on it....Dam near 340.000 Original miles Dam Good Car....
Reason not to buy the ls 400:
There needs to be enough on the market for me to afford.
Look for the older people and be willing to travel, got a 96 with brand new rack and pinion, vacuum lines, water pump, timing belt and pulleys replaced, starter, power steering pump for $2900 all it needed was a thermal fan clutch and the coolant to be redone. Her son used it when he came home from college to get around town and she had no use for it anymore ! You’ll get one they’re amazing :)
@@uzileopard6199 Wow thanks! I'll keep that in mind. I saw an LS 400 today, was reminded of how good it still looks!
@@uzileopard6199Where can I start looking? Any websites?
PB&J Racing • 13 years ago i recommend facebook marketplace and offerup, craigslist never really has anything nowadays besides car dealerships selling on the website and using false tags to get views. Gotta always have the setting to newest listing first on those apps i said aswell, thats how you find good deals.
@@uzileopard6199 Alright, thanks dude!
Quick question, how many miles does yours have?
For the 94 im looking at stock, im not looking at modding it away from stock, just replacing parts keeping it clean. Giving it a little lift for clearence issues and staying with an unmolested build :)
These cars are great, but you are right that these take time. Something as simple as finding that 2 tone trim piece. But with some coilovers, some Oem wheels from a different car that are cheap and some extra difficult bushing replacements these things are a blast to drive. And will sit really great.
I don't know what he is talking about, parts are available everywhere, he may live where no parts for his car are available, but we find them everywhere in Orange County CA. I love mine and runs beautifully and worth a lot more then he mentions.
Really because I’m “SERIOUSLY” considering one but, I was scared of parts being scarce for the car. Where can I get an abundance of parts for the car??
Totaled my old 04’ Jeep Liberty on an extremely undermarked and dangerous dirt road... planning on getting an LS400, preferably a 98-00 model. Can’t wait to get my hands on this beauty of a car.
Nice vid! Keep up the good work!
As if you had THE FITMENT INDUSTRIES comment on your vid!!
There are a ton of false statements in this video actually lol
@@Sharkstance fitment industries themselves made a video on ls400 😎
I feel this spiritually. I've had my ls400 for more than a year, and I've only been able to do coilovers. Granted I'm broke as shit, but the market is straight ass, and some of the forums are 5-10+ years old and are really hard to find support. Still I love my lexus.
This dude don’t know what he’s talkin about
I have to agree with the "what's he talking about"...Have owned my LS400 for over 20 years & with ANY car things happen, more with poorly built cars.Gas mi. is great for a V8 engine & I don't know what he was doing with his Lexus but 16 MPG?? even city no less than 20mpg in mines lifetime. see ya at half a million.
@@siddlanco1811 and does it really need premium thooo?
@@nikobuerk346 Yes. That part was true.
he literally owns the car, how does he not know??
I think everyone should watch this even if you don’t have or want an ls400
Soooo many good points not just with a Ls but just in general with the newer generation wanting instant gratification over doing stupid quick shit to a car that has a thousand parts for it in stock already. Just keep doing what your doing man because you’ve been killing it. But I definitely enjoyed this video!!
Dude.. do the VIP video too..
This one was great. I'm still getting one tho.. lol. love the channel.
Great video. I almost went ls400 but went Mercedes s500 for my build on my channel. So happy I did. Now have 5 Benz and my s500 is coming along well.
When you get an LS400 without realizing how much everyone wants one but you just need a car 😅
You are lucky my friend. Most Ls400’s in my area are high mileage and you know 150k of them were pedal to the floor.
@@xzak3660 mine is high mileage but was kept in great condition
I like that its not easy bc people see the quality in your work
I’m planning on buying one on Sunday and I’m in it for the long run I have started to look for certain things and he isn’t wrong but everything come with time thank you for the warnings
You have the best looking LS400 imo. This car inspired me to get an LS400 and VIP it. And guess what im not even into air suspension and camber stancenation thing but this..i just cant say no to it. Keep up the good sht man! been lovin the videos and the car.
Just put some nice *period correct* wheels on it, and it's done!
Keep it simple and classy, the way a LEXUS is supposed to be.
👍
I just bought a 98 ls400 yesterday, one owner vehicle and already planning so much for it so clicked on this video
Same here bro, got a 99 in Diamond White Pearl, got it off an elderly couple serviced at Westside Lexus forever. Can’t wait to start this build
Where should I search for one?
XanXiety Marketplace on Facebook, Craigslist or local listings. They are there, you can find them for under 5 grand if you search good enough. Well kept maintained ones are going 4k+ nowadays, these cars hold their value. Hope you find one soon my guy! Good time to do it now. Who knows in the next few years price may climb up.
Ur a very underrated youtuber
Fair play to you mate. I've seen a few about now and celsiors, people are jumping on the bandwagon
I just got a celsior a month ago... no regrets (as my first car)
I’m in for a “vip or not” video
Do it
Some nice *period correct* chrome 19" or 20" wheels on it, and it's done in my opinion.
Keep it simple and classy like a LEXUS is supposed to be!
✌
My bro passed a month ago and left a ‘97 ls400 that is currently under construction. It looks good, getting there all in all fun car to drive. I didn’t roll my fenders I phone booked it
Just saying this is the best car ever I had one it went over 1mil miles and the engine is still fine! The engine is been used for a drift car now these cars are SO RELIABLE
Had mine for 20 yrs and it’s still going strong
Great video.. You nailed it, this is not a car or vip in general for "clout" or ig likes status.. These builds are for the enthusiast and true vipcar builds..
I just bought it before 1 month and I am super happy so far
I found a 94 Lexus ls400 190k miles. Well taken care of should buy it for 1900?
Based on my own LS build, I can vouch for this list. Very few parts were available in the US and most had to be sourced from Japan. Bottom line... there's no such thing as a budget VIP build on an LS 🤔
building mine in japan because its dirt cheap to find parts. theyre junked everywhere. they arent "LS's" here though.
@@probablynot2day557 dam
Watch simple builds 💀 you’ll see otherwise
Real talk bruh!!! Loved it! This generation is a "Me First, ask questions later"...lazy shanks! Work 1st, play later, that's how it is and ALWAYS will be!!! Tell it like is Cuzz!
I still want one just because of the 1UZ itself. As for what I'd do to one, probably a slight drop in ride height and some wheels, if I can afford it after rust repairs.
Talking about fuel economy on a v8 is like looking for sportiness in a prius... it makes no sense. This is a great car and its gaining hype for a reason. Its still more reliable than most cars on the road, especially the engine. There is a guy here in the uk that built one of these to 700+hp and even in that form its reliable (obviously with the right upgrades to support it) so just proves how massively over engineered this car was when it came out. There is a reason it beat the shit out of mercedes back in the day.
"because if you have clout you don't torque anything" just made me die laughing!
Kept it as raw as ever, i appreciate it
My ls400 ucf20 is mint and fully vip equipped all custom parts 30k+ build so far and i had owned it from new 25 + years and still running strong
So which one is better for a VIP build? LS400 or LS430?
I found out that in my country the 430 is cheaper to insure, cheaper to buy and it has slightly better mileage than the 400 but i think the 400 looks better
i hate the 430s.
I can completely agree!!! I have been a LS400 owner since 98 mainly ucf10. Incredible cars but they all started VIP but due to time they slide into drift mode with ease. That’s a solid looking ride. Solid 2¢ video!!!
VIP and Drift style...
Why always the same with these LEXUS models?
Some nice *period correct* chrome 19" or 20" wheels on it, and it's done!
Keep it simple and classy like a LEXUS is supposed to be!
✌
We definitely need a video that defines a actual vip car !
Thanks for the groups too. Always need more places to find parts.
Lol i spent 1800 for mine and another 1800 spent in parts. No wheels yet
I spent 2400 and probably 600 on normal maintenance
I own a 1997 Lexus LS400 I bought at a car auction in 2000 for about $22,500. I have 371,000 miles on the car with the original engine and original transmission; I would say that is pretty good ! I use a Synthetic oil mixed in with Lucas Oil Stabilizer and change it regularly. I am still going to milk it, since the 400 in the LS400 stands for 400K miles !! I have never had a car last as long as this one ! My power steering went out and I found Scotty Kilmer's video on how to repair the issue (bad switch on the power steering reservoir - cost me $40) The paint is really starting to go, the blower motor for the climate control is going out, but I can fix that for about $38-$50. That's not too bad. I removed the valve cover, since it was leaking, and replaced the gasket for about $50. The inside was very very clean with no gunk at all ! The synthetic oil mixed in with the stabilizer is probably the reason. The valves are noisy but it runs well. There is a leak in the power steering; I poured in a bottle of Blue Devil stop leak and it has been working like that for about 3 weeks. I will probably have to replace a high pressure hose; that can't be too hard. All fun stuff and it is a very good car..... however, it does use gas and here in the Bay Area, with gas at $5.39 per gallon... ouch !! I need a good hybrid !!
Another heater! Wouldn't be mad at more videos like this!
Your car looks super clean man! Heading in the right direction!! Makes me miss my 93 LS
I had a mint 2000 LS400 Platinum Edition with the black interior. Unfortunately, some speeding rear ended me while I was turning into my neighborhood. Car is total loss... It got me through beautiful trips and rides. The car is a tank!!
Too bad it isn´t! You could have swung the turret around! 🙂
these cars are seriously underrated, gotta make em more known #makels400smoreknown
pls no, because if they get known, they will get more expensive
S T O N K S
I love my 91 and it stands out because its not "built" its clean af and restored to its former glory (about 10% of them out there now)
When I’ve been looking for one and saw this then went to go see other cars and still came back to this vid bc I’m in love w them 🥺
It's crazy, I think a good bit of older Lexus are like this. I managed to slam a 98 Es300, and let me tell you it's wayy harder to find parts for it rather than, say, an Infiniti G35 lol I had to do a lot of cutting, modifying coilovers springs, slotting coilovers mounts, rewiring and tucking harnesses, buying more coilovers because of lowering limits of other brands. No extended control arms, adjustable uppers and lowers, BCs dont go low enough, etc. .. I now have an Ls430 and am going through some of the same things, but not as bad lol
I'm excited. I'm getting a first gen LS400. I mainly wanna keep it stock. Maybe add a supercharger or turbo at some point in the future when I'm more financially stable. I just love toyota V8s. The main reason I want it. One day I'd love to own a RCF or LCF haha
Hows that been for u gang, looking to get an LS400 also
Had mine for 3 years now. Goin the drift route
with an auto?
@@tk-uq3kd yeh 2nd gear round some turns it does fine. I have a cd009 350z trans I'm gonna install once stock trans goes
Thank god i have a friend who specializes in LS400’s and always helps me build it and has hella parts cause he’s rebuilt 6 of them and got them all on the road
I love how the beat drops after he's says he spends 400 in gas a month
Had a 1992 ls400 for my first car and absolutely loved it! so nice to drive and so reliable. Sad lost it to a lady running a stop sign and ramming my passenger side but always dreamed of slamming it and putting wheels on it. Trying to get another one and like you said, Cant find squat for that car. Its sooo expensive
same i got my ls400 also as a first car april 2020 and loved it so much. some chevy ran thur a stop sign and tboned me.totaled
Ih yeah those dimples from the plastic almost tore up my es330 so it's on there too. It was challenging but 20's fit no rub. Ni c e video!
Magazine fender rolling will give you that supreme tucked roll.
Love my 97 ls400 doing a subwoofer wall with 2 18s currently
I have my 96 ls400 and its still amazing just doing soke small stuff to it aswell
Love my UCF10 sitting on bbs with BC racing coil overs...planning on getting Cusco LSD and bullet car supercharger in the future ...
Love your model...it’s still a timeless looking car.
I have mines garages still a project shits endless I will never sell it
What headlights bulb you have? I have the same headlights just needa buy the led bulbs
I bought mines for 1,000 dollars 1993 Lexus ls400. With 142xxx miles on it.
I absolutely love my Ls400.... BUT, he is right, there are no aftermarket parts, and if you are lucky enough to find them they are expensive. Get used to custom work or diy. They're amazing cars but patience is needed. I've had mine for almost 5 years now and i finally found a nice set of headlights for $300...... Made in 1998 lol. But dont let it stop you from buying, they really are a pleasure. Happy Modding!
Good thing I bought it to just stage 0 and daily it lmao. Just found a 95' LS400 last week for $1400 @156k miles. No check engine and drives fine so far
If not LS400 (my favourite is the 1st version, the oldest without VVTi..) how about GS300 gen 2 with VVTi 2JZ? Thinking about leaving Honda game, not pleased anymore even my ’03 R does 0-60 in 6 seconds and easily goes 160 mph. Trying to find a reliable, less racey, daily cruising car..
Is300 sportcross soo practical. My daily and a rare one too.
TL FIN GS300 surprisingly have a lot more aftermarket support!
What you just talked about is so true.
I have a have owned my 91 for 10 years, kept stock but yes $$$$$. Still runs great but due to yes....parts & shotty mechanics have it serviced & maintained with Lexus again.
And yes even they have to wait for parts from Japan but usually about 2 weeks & more $$$$$.
Good honest video 😂!
You can also just buy it at $4000 and enjoy the softness of the OEM airsuspension, or the OEM dampers, avoid the whole VIP thing and have a really nice car which always starts... and you'll even stand out from the crowd cuz everyone bags and uses the road as a cargrater.
man i was loosing faith but really thats all i want. mint and oem
Anyone know the kit on this ls? Gorgeous 2 me
If only i saw this 3 years and 4 ls400s ago 😳 but honestly dude pretty on point with the ownership life of these
OMG the front bumper look so good🔥🔥
Actually if you shop online in new zealand or Australia most parts can been found, we have a huge second hand japanese car market
Honda: The bolts it.... Literally it will build itself.
😁😆😃
Okay so my opinion on the things ur saying: 1) I never saw someone irl driving one so its not a really common car where i live 2) It drives gas, the cheapest you can drive in my country 3) The fenders problem ill try to solve myself for a car with so much pros theres gotta be at least one con 4) I have a good connection with my dads garagist and he only does toyota and lexus stuff so he can get hes hands on some good parts 5) of course its gonna be expensive but thats a sacrifice im willing to make for such a car and it wont lose as much worth right?
It's a lie,I have an LS400 takes 20 gallons in the tank and gives me between 21 to 23 miles per gallon and runs better than an impala or a regular Mustang, It's very comfortable it's stable and to be a 90" car works better and has more luxuries than a ford or a Chevrolet, I dare compare it to Audi, Mercedes benz or a BMW and of course because it's a foreign(Imported)car is little harder and more expensive by the parts but it's worth it, mine has 400,000 miles and it's still strong
Wait untill you go looking for parts for a 18 crown athlete, next to nothing is available. I have been looking for parts for hours each day for the past year.
I have wanted one for a long time so I bought one first month I crashed it it’s been a month since then he is not lyin about the parts the only parts I need are bushings and oem have been discontinued but I love this car and this video shows me that this car is a break u or make u car too bad that I can’t abandon this car I love it too much😔
I shall now buy two more.
Finding fenders for 400’s are hard af
Even if you just want to be subtle. Maybe some lowering springs? Nope…better off buying stock moogs and “making” your own. I love this car though. Just bought a ‘99, and it’s definitely got it’s quirks. But I love it more every time I drive it
amazing vid, i definitely hopped in and got one of these a little unprepared but the end goal gonna be insane
I have '97 ES or Toyota Windom for that matter. It costed $3500 with 400k miles on it initially but the engine's still running smooth. I'm planning to VIP it but yeah, it's costing just as much as the LS just at a smaller scale and it's already way more than the price I paid for and I'm not even halfway where I'd like it yet. Parts like bushings, steering rack and drive shaft and all those have to be ordered and replace the existing one since it's a 25 year old car. There's just a lot of stuffs to repair to make the ride smooth before getting into the cosmetic aspect. You spent $400 on the car fuel while I spend less than $200 monthly. That being said, I'm content with staying with my ES and not pursuing to get an LS after watching this video. Besides, not a lot of people tries to VIP their ES so I want to be different so there's that.
Bought mine 8 months ago for $2150 and I've definitely resented the parts availability scarcity, especially control arms. No way I'm doing a VIP build though, definitely want to keep it bone stock.
That’s how I am, I plan on eventually swapping my rims for nice chromes, but definitely not one of the VIP builds... imo the vips aren’t as cool or practical as the stock.
@@therevx5225 me too, nice set of 17s but definitely no coilover stuff.
Exactly. I would never do vip
@@therevx5225 Agree!
Some nice *period correct* chrome 19" or 20" wheels on it, and it's done!
Keep it simple and classy like a LEXUS is supposed to be!
✌
"in the middle of the covid-19 outbreak" If only May were in the middle of the pandemic...
This is a very quality video and brought up good points. Fact still stands I will own one, one day.
Beautiful car bro, great video great editing keep it up I have a ls430 an 02 need to get her some tlc goin I think mine is a vip car it came with stock message seats that recline in the back the cooler box and a mark Levinson stereo system, new subscriber for sure keep em comin
what’s the silver bottoms color code? I can’t tell if it’s a cool silver or a warm 😅
this is 3 years old and he stopped posting a year ago, you arent gonna get an answer. best you just look up all the color codes and compare
@@ethanacton408 thanks ive tried but some are so close but still different. found out different regions had different bottom colors
Owning a ucf20 I can't agree more with you
Yep, the UCF20R is the problem child of the Lexus family...I know I have two problem children (cars).
Should I buy a ls400 if I’m a 17 year old with mild car knowledge tho?
Good starter car
Go for it, the pros outweigh the cons BY A LONG SHOT. Literally one of the best daily drivers when fully sorted out.
Your so right man. You know how long I’ve been waiting to try and find a wald executive body kit... :(
I want one to keep it stock. Like, I'll work on it and it stuff but i only have a few years experience with cars ive only done one engine swap on my own (stock motor). Reason I want one is for the longevity, and I like big cars.
These cars are built extremely well, longevity will not be a problem...I've had mine for 22 years.
Probably going to buy one regardless... selling two vehicles out of four: 95 S14 and 72 F100 both going bye bye then buying one of these but I know a lot of car people so might be able to get ahold of parts but thank you for all the info don't know shit about these cars just started opening my eyes towards these
My previous car was an LS400 and if it was manual i would absolutely have never sold it, I actually still ride in it sometimes as I sold it to a friend, and I miss the hell out of it, it was on megan racing coilovers lowered about 2 inches of clearance and as far as drivability, i havent had a car thats easier to drive lowered meaning driveways and bumps, I never had a single mechanical issue either in the year and a half i owned it, keep in mind it had 135K I bought for 4000$
I get about 18-19 mpg out of mine. If your tire diameter is lower than factory that could throw off the count.
Losing my mind trying to replace the alternator. None of the videos available are quiete how my ls400 is set up. alternator won't fit through the top or bottom and there's a coolant or steering fluid pipe in every direction. That and I didnt realize that the power steering pulley sits in front of the alternator.