LS shopping. Need help.

[shift_it]

Hello,

I am considering becoming an new owner of LS 00-02 (v8).

I am thinking about getting rid of my 04 wrx for one. Two main reasons I want a LS is b/c of its looks and hear allot of great comments about the comfortable ride level.
-But I have to ask what are some bad/un-resolved issues about the 0-02 LS's.


I found out that some are causing mis-fire and valve leaks are these really the only main issues or are there more??

I am not sure if it would be wise to get rid of my wrx for one since mine has been very reliable, but size and long distance driving kind of kicks my but due to the race seats it has on them. Sometimes I need the extra room since my 2 kids like to ride w/ me in the car too.

If anyone here can share your thoughts about the LS's that would be great!!

Thanks all for any help.

 

[shift_it]

 

[hess38511]

its a great car just get the covers checked they can cause some big problems.. dual ac has a tsb about it. check power windows for sounds when in use and the rear defrost and the head lights for leaks.

 

[lexmarkz00]

Why would you want to trade an '04 model car for something 2 or 4 years older than it? Who does that...

 

[shift_it]

Why would you want to trade an '04 model car for something 2 or 4 years older than it? Who does that...

$$$$$$$$$

 

[lexmarkz00]

sucks

 

[Dutch]

Look it over carefully before you buy. I had an '00 LS V8, and it was a great car (when it worked). The interior is a good size but not huge or anything. My LS was great cruising between here and L.A. with my family.

I guess after my experience I'd advise against it, or at least suggest avoiding the 2000 model year.

 

[Beamer]

Definately go w/ an '02 if you can, some of the problems have gotten worked out by then, chances are it may have less mileage aswell. Personally I'd just save abit more and wait and get a newer model just cause you well be stepping down in year and more than likely going way up in miles unless you drive all the time not to mention if you owe a good amount on the wrx you could possibly go unside down and going w/ something older doesn't work out well payment-wise but if you have paid it down a good bit than cool. If it were me I'd stay w/ the wrx unless I really did not like it or it was costing me too much. If you want you can buy mine, asking what I owe which is alittle high but its in great shape, decent mileage(38K) and well maintained but like I said, I owe just over 20K.

 

[steagle]

i have an 00 and am dealing with some of the common electrical issues right now, it was definitely the worst year for the LS, but even still i couldn't say no to such a beautiful car. with the right amount of care and maintenance, it can run as good as a 02-03 model, but just be willing to spend the extra $$ to accomplish that. either way, you are going to spend a good amount of money to own and drive an LS, whether its a new one with low mileage or an older one with the higher possibility for electrical & mechanical problems. i'd also stick with the WRX if possible...... but i know EXACTLY how you feel about wanting an LS, i was there for a couple years myself.

 

[Beamer]

Or you could go w/ the lil' 3.0 v6 if power is not too much of an issue, may(not sure) save ya some gas, trouble and insurance. Just get a loaded up one . In a way I wish I would of went w/ the v6 but when there is a v8 available mind as well right not to mention the LS is a heavy car and the v8 just seems better to handle the weight.

 

[Qbrozen]

i would say definitely go with the '03. Since a ReX is about $24k new and an '03 LS V8 can be had for under $20k, it seems to me you should have no problem affording it.

 

[shift_it]

thanks 4 all the feedback. WRX is great, but to small man. At least for the family to tow around town. Plus I dunno how many integras, civics and mustangs want to race. hell I have my family in it. I nod my head and let them be. I just dont want to be around that scene. I am more laid back and just want to get from point A to B , but still look classy while doing it. Not speed freak classy if you know what I mean. I do admit that I enjoy the AWD though.

Thanks and I am still searching

 

[Hawk03]

Here is a 2002 LSE at the dealership I go to. This has been a good dealership to go to and my parents have also bought thier Explorer there also. Good service if you lived close but nonetheless good to deal with.

http://www.lynchford-mtvernon.com/p....asp?orgid=1877&vin=1LNHM87A62Y711352&photo=6

 

[damcost]

Shopping/Problems

In 2003 I bought a 2000 LS V6 w/ 5 speed manaul. Awesome fun to drive. When got it I was suckered into the extended warranty. Lucky I got it though. W/ in a year and 7500 miles I needed the right ABS sensor replaced, all window reguators replaced except for the driver's, the front pasenger's speaker and the rear view mirror which no longer autodimmed; just stayed partly dim in the center. (very annoying). Believe it or not the most expensive part to replace was the rearveiw mirror. Apperently it takes a bit more time to replace. Just after I had it for a year I needed the sway bar bushings replaced. All of this was covered by the warranty.
Since then the ABS sensor went bad again and the same speaker is blown. Overall I am satisfied with the car I came from driving a Lexus IS 300 auto. The fit and finish was mach better but the LS inspires more confidence when driving aggressively. Part wheight distro and part width. Plus at speed it just feels like it hunkers down and glues to the road.

If you get an LS you will find some small details on the interior that will bug you like lack of storage and a small rear seat for it's size but for a car of this size it handles great.