LEXUS LS400 (1998)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 812 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
83%
Total Tests (2024)
812
Avg Mileage
153,118 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 1998 LEXUS LS400 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the LEXUS brand average of 87%.
At 26 years old, 83% of LEXUS LS400s from 1998 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 812 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 153,118 miles.
How does the 1998 LEXUS LS400 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1998 LEXUS LS400 has 153,118 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 192,400 miles for a 26-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a LEXUS LS400?
The most reliable year is the 1991 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 1993 model has the lowest at 79%. The 1998 sits between the two at 83%.
How much does a 1998 LEXUS LS400 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
LEXUS LS400 by Year
Checking a specific LEXUS LS400?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1998 LEXUS LS400
The 1998 LEXUS LS400 is a premium performance with a 3969cc petrol engine. 812 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 20% of all 1998 cars for reliability.
With an average of 153,118 miles at 26 years old, LEXUS LS400 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1998 LEXUS LS400 Fuel Costs
The 3969cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1998 LEXUS LS400?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 83% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
LEXUS LS400 Reliability Trend
Older LEXUS LS400s tend to have better MOT pass rates than newer ones, with an average decline of 3 percentage points across model years.
Buying a Used 1998 LEXUS LS400
At 26 years old, the LEXUS LS400 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 1991 model has the highest pass rate at 91%.
Alternatives to the 1998 LEXUS LS400
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- JAGUAR XK8 (1997) 81% pass rate (-2%) from 3,443 tests
- PORSCHE 911 (1998) 85% pass rate (+2%) from 3,337 tests
- JAGUAR XJ (1998) 77% pass rate (-6%) from 2,154 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER (1999) 79% pass rate (-4%) from 2,067 tests