2002-2008 Lexus SC 430: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2002-2008 Lexus SC 430 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Build quality
- Handling
- Quietness
- Acceleration
- Ride (regular tires)
- Interior materials
Cons
- Cargo room
- Rear-seat entry/exit
- Rear-seat room
Vehicle Highlights
For the first time, Toyota's luxury division launched a convertible. Not an ordinary soft-top, the all-new SC 430 had a power-retractable metal roof. A small rear seat was intended for occasional use, mainly by youngsters, so it was really a two-seater. With the rear-drive SC 430, Lexus competed against the BMW Z8 roadster, Jaguar XK8, and Mercedes-Benz CLK and SL500. Lexus took the SC's V8 engine and five-speed automatic transmission from the company's top-line LS 430 sedan. Standard features included front side airbags, antilock four-wheel disc brakes with full-power emergency-stop assist, an antiskid/traction system, and tire-pressure monitor. Alloy wheels held 18-inch tires. Inside, the two occupants enjoyed leather/wood cabin trim and a premium Mark Levinson audio system. Options were limited to a rear spoiler, navigation system, and run-flat tires.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Lexus SC 430 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 7 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 1 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 2 | |
| Total Score: | 50 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2002-2008 Lexus SC 430. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2002-2008 Lexus SC 430.
Year to Year Changes
2003 Lexus SC:
This upper-crust convertible added optional Lexus Link service as its sole change for 2003. Also available for the LS 430, Lexus Link was basically GM's OnStar system, with similar emergency assistance and concierge services, but monitored by a separate Lexus-only staff of operators.
2004 Lexus SC:
A limited-production Pebble Beach Edition debuted for 2004. Only about 400 were to be built. Each featured Azure Pearl paint, Ecru leather upholstery, a rear spoiler, run-flat tires, special badging--and even a leather golf bag.
2005 Lexus SC:
SC 430 lost its Lexus Link assistance system, but otherwise saw only detail changes this year. For 2005, the SC 430 got revised shock absorbers and a navigation system with more-detailed screen graphics and a larger DVD database.
2006 Lexus SC:
A 6-speed automatic transmission and cosmetic touch-ups marked this upper-crust convertible for 2006.
2007 Lexus SC:
The addition of standard front-knee airbags marked 2007 for Lexus' convertible.
2008 Lexus SC:
The 2008 Lexus SC 430 carried over unchanged.
Our road test for the 2002-2008 Lexus SC 430 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2002-2008 Lexus SC 430 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2002-2008 Lexus SC 430 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
A relaxed cruiser, the SC 430 performs capably. The V8's "drive-by-wire" throttle makes takeoffs seem lazy, but the SC gathers speed rapidly. A test car accelerated from 0-60 mph in just 6.2 seconds. The silken transmission is generally responsive, but will hesitate to downshift in certain situations. Fuel economy could be better, and premium fuel is required. A test model averaged 16.6 mpg, which is on par with the rival Jaguar XK8. Another one logged 18.5 mpg despite performance tests. Although the SC 430 is essentially an easy rider, 18-inch performance tires produce hard-edge jitters on patchy pavement, as well as some wander along grooved surfaces. Optional run-flats with stiff sidewalls make the ride even harsher. The body shows minor top-down quiver on rough roads, but an SC is closed-coupe solid with the top up. Despite slightly numb steering, the SC is agile for a luxury tourer. The traction/antiskid system is a safety plus. So are the brakes. One test SC wandered slightly in a "panic" stop, but distances were short and nosedive minimal. With its top up, the SC matches or beats most luxury coupes for quiet refinement, despite some low but audible wind rustle and coarse-pavement tire thrum. Top-down wind buffeting is the lowest among convertibles we've tested. Instruments and controls are largely trouble-free. The navigation-system screen angles to suit ambient light, but can still wash out. Steering-wheel audio volume buttons are a bit obscured. Lexus's sumptuous, beautifully crafted cabin features real wood, soft leather, and discreet brightwork. The retracting top works smoothly and swiftly, up and down. Comfortable 10-way power seats are low-set, hampering entry/exit. Some drivers may also complain about visibility. Seats are also too flat for good lateral positioning in fast cornering. Leg space is ample, but top-up head room is just adequate for six-footers. Don't even think about the token back "seat," which is suitable only for small parcels and pets. Cargo space is nearly nonexistent with the top stowed. Even with the top up, the trunk holds barely enough for two on a long weekend, provided you pack carefully. The run-flat option omits the spare tire, to add a minimal 0.6 cubic feet--a poor trade for its harsher ride.
Value for the Money
The SC 430 is a posh, pleasant semi-sporting convertible with the extra security and convenience of a power metal roof. You also get Lexus's brand of workmanship and reliability. No, this one isn't cheap, but some rivals with similar power and features cost even more. Demand has exceeded supply, which tends to keep secondhand prices high.
The SC 430 is a posh, pleasant semi-sporting convertible with the extra security and convenience of a power metal roof. You also get Lexus's brand of workmanship and reliability. No, this one isn't cheap, but some rivals with similar power and features cost even more. Demand has exceeded supply, which tends to keep secondhand prices high.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Lexus SC 430 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 7 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 1 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 2 | |
| Total Score: | 50 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Lexus SC includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Lexus SC .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
The shifter may not always move out of park, even with the brakes applied, due to a rubber anti-rattle pad malfunction, requiring the installation of a revised pad. (2001-02)
Engine noise:
A chirping or squealing noise may come from under the hood when the engine is started due to a slipping serpentine belt and an improved part has been made available. (2002-04)
Trunk latch:
If the trunk is opened while the convertible top is opening or closing, the top must be manually opened or closed then the trunk must be shut. (2002)
Vehicle shake:
Engine vibrates at idle due to worn engine mount stabilizer and/or engine mount. (2002-04)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $880 |
| Alternator | $570 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $2,995 |
| Brakes | $450 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $3,440 |
| Exhaust System | $670 |
| Radiator | $710 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $2,940 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $905 |
Our price chart for this generation Lexus SC details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2008 | |||
| SC 430 | $55,300-58,000 | $52,500-55,100 | $41,500-43,500 |
| 2007 | |||
| SC 430 | $47,200-49,800 | $44,400-46,800 | $34,900-36,900 |
| 2006 | |||
| SC 430 | $40,000-42,500 | $37,200-39,500 | $28,800-30,600 |
| 2005 | |||
| SC 430 | $33,500-35,500 | $31,200-33,000 | $23,800-25,200 |
| 2004 | |||
| SC 430 | $28,500-30,500 | $26,500-28,400 | $19,400-20,700 |
| 2003 | |||
| SC 430 | $24,000-25,700 | $22,300-23,900 | $15,600-16,700 |
| 2002 | |||
| SC 430 | $20,800-22,300 | $19,100-20,500 | $13,500-14,500 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Lexus SC include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 103.1 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 177.8 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.0 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 53.1 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3840 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 8.8 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 19.8 | |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.2 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.6 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 33.9 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 27.1 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Each SC 430 held a 300-horsepower, 4.3-liter V8 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V8 | 4.3 / 262 | 300 | 325 | 5-speed automatic: 18/23 | 5-speed automatic: 16.6 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Japan
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Lexus SC include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
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