Bocatrip

noted. but still loses fluid over time. Poor design? All LS430s have stains over the top and sides of the reservoir showing coolant loss? Dah.

jayclapp

Mhy apologies. I realized I have no business commenting on this thread. I have driven my 04 for 10 years. Purchased it as a CPO at 20,000 miles and now have 128,700 miles. All service and needed repairs (except batterys and tires) have been done rigorously at my Lexus dealer. The engine temperature gage has never moved after warm up during that time under any driven condition. This, in spite of the extreme temperature seen in the Phoeniz area. Never had a reason to even look at the reservoir level.

So..... I just went out, removed the engine inlet airflow cover, and took a look at it. No stains or other stuff seen on the reservoir or radiator. I did add about 2 oz of water to bring the level up to the lower level mark (in spite of the manual instructing not to add water but only 50& anti-freeze mixture).

Not all LS430s have a coolant problem. Having said that, I run the risk of having an unexpected radiator failure tomorrow!!! I know it will eventually fail if I keep it long enough. Everything eventually "dies".

Is it possible that operation in areas that have extreme cold weather causes a much greater thermal expansion of the metal coolant system as it has to go from near zero to 200F, and this causes cyclical fatigue to occur earlier?

Bocatrip

You may be indeed on of the lucky ones! Be thankful. Regardless, toping up the radiator every few months is not the end of the world to keep this barge going!