SC430 - 2nd Gen (2001-2010)

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Old 07-01-12, 03:07 PM
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jaltuner
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Proud owner of a 2004 SC, 48,000 miles, photos attached. Acquired the car at the beginning of this year and have been racking up miles since. Absolutely ecstatic to be motoring in this vehicle. Went through a Chevy Cavalier (10 years), then a Ford Escort (14 years), and now I’m here – could be heaven. Some change, huh?

I haven’t been able to ascertain the exact color, though. I was told by the dealer that the car is Pearl White; the Lexus shop told me it was actually Sapphire Pearl White. According to resources provided by Scdroptop (many thanks for all those posts, btw – highly useful for a 1st timer), Lexus did not use Pearl White on its SC’s in 2004. Based on that resource, I’m guessing the car is White Gold Crystal.

Saddle interior and equipped with Potenza Run-Flats. Have found the guidance on run flats and tires, in general, on this site to be very helpful. Am already considering, when the time comes, switching to other tires, possibly Pirelli’s... And, it looks like I’m going to need a speaker change – all of a sudden am hearing mild distortion on the higher end (driver’s side tweeter, most likely) which speaks to the veracity of many of the posts I’ve read herein regarding the Levinson Sound system’s shortcomings – however, the sound, when the system is up and running, is incredible. Nothing like being able to hear subtleties in music with the top down. Am considering having the dealer replace. Although haven’t done all the research… might go with an after-market specialist.

Am currently researching detailing do’s and don’ts, mostly don’ts as I am very familiar with the usual detailing drill. But like a proud, new, worried father, wanting to make sure I do things right, I’m reading up on all the helpful tips.

If anybody has any guidance on any of the above, particularly with regard to color, I‘d appreciate it. This site is extremely helpful so I’m sure I’ll eventually navigate to what’s useful.

Can’t seem to enjoy driving enough these days. Hope to see you out on the roads! And thanks to all for such great posts – very informative.
Attached Thumbnails New To CL-lexussc430.jpg   New To CL-interior.jpg  
Old 07-01-12, 03:26 PM
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husker741
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Welcome! What a huge leap you took from those other cars. I'm sure you won't be disappointed. Everyone on here is so nice and quick to help, so don't hesitate to ask. Some speakers can be fixed with kits bought online and new speakers can be bought from Sewell with a discount for being a member here. Going off of this site, (http://www.toyotareference.com/lexussc#SC) I would say it is the White Gold Crystal.
Old 07-01-12, 03:42 PM
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jaltuner
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Thanks Husker 741... very helpful. I see from toyotareference.com it is probably White Gold Crystal.

I guess it's easily confused with Starfire Pearl. Appreciate the feedback.
Old 07-01-12, 03:48 PM
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VVTiBob
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Yep I agree White Gold Crystal. Regarding the detailing ....run you palm and fingers over the sheet metal. You shouldn't feel anything. If you feel any grit, bumps, road debris or any roughness at all it's time for a clay barring. Followed by detail and wax. Did mine and the car feels as smooth as a newborn's bottom. Same with the leather, unless you know the history it probably needs a thorough cleaning and conditioning to return moisture evaporated with all that time under the sun...
Old 07-01-12, 04:19 PM
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SC400slide
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Welcome
nice looking leather!
Old 07-01-12, 09:18 PM
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76210Guy
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Welcome! Love that Saddle interior. Beautiful ride.
Old 07-01-12, 09:36 PM
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73446
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Great looking sled! What made you jump to the SC 430? Seems kind of improbable...

If you want to visit my journey on speakers and ML, see this thread:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc-...n-success.html

Cheers!

Mike
Old 07-01-12, 11:36 PM
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johnsfe
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Welcome Jaltuner....

beautiful SC430...I have the exact same color..pearl white (?) and saddle leather. Very nice.
Old 07-02-12, 11:52 AM
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jaltuner
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73446, Thanks for the link.. very helpful. A friend of mine just equipped his '02 430 with bluetooth. It fit right into the ashtray compartment - looks great.
Old 07-02-12, 11:53 AM
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WIL44
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Welcome to CL jaltuner

Great looking car and fabulous interior.
I just love white SC's.

Being a Brit, I am not sure if your Ford Escorts are the same as here, but if they are the same then that is a massive leap. No wonder you are loving the SC.

Best regards
Steve
Old 07-02-12, 11:55 AM
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jaltuner
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As for why I jumped to the SC 430 from a Ford Escrot, well, I just had to do it. I was hoping to make the jump to a Lexusbased on recommendations and the overall value and reliability of the brand. Then I got a good deal on the car, couldn't say 'no,' and I thought it was just time to "end the pain..."
Old 07-02-12, 11:58 AM
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jaltuner
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Thanks WTiBob, appreciate the feedback. Am working on cleaning the leather throughly - found some great guidance on this site. Am trying to find a good leather conditioner for the final touches.
Old 07-02-12, 12:19 PM
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mandyfig
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Welcome Jaltuner. I have a WGC as well. But Ecru interior.
Old 07-02-12, 06:46 PM
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jaltuner
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That is one sweet looking ride, WIL44. Beautiful color.
Old 07-02-12, 06:54 PM
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jaltuner
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Thanks, 76210Guy. Enjoyed your website, btw. Great interior design photos at: www.dressedupbuttoneddown.com


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