When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Looking to purchase an 04 SC430. Found a nice example on a used lot. Everything wonderful with the auto except.... The top won't go down. Dealer is aware and has it priced accordingly. Two things came to mind... The under dash trunk release would not work, but key fob would release trunk. The top switch flashed red while I held the brake down, in ln park. I held it for some time. I heard no mechanical noises either which prompted me to wonder if the signal for top down was being blocked. I read on the forum that sometimes the valet switch can become activated in the glovebox and cause these issues. Are there any other things the valet switch would prevent besides the trunk release and top down?
Thank you, but I am not really worried about the top so much. For the price, and overall condition this vehicle is a great value. I'm handy enough to work my way through repairing it if need be. I was unaware of the valet switch today as I was looking at the vehicle. I may go back to look at it a bit more to determine the cause. It's hard troubleshooting a car on a car lot.
These cars are relatively bulletproof just be sure the suspension is in good working order, and maintenance like timing belt/water pump is up to date. Those things can get expensive. Doesn't hurt to have it checked out at the Lexus dealer, either, for a second opinion.
These cars are relatively bulletproof just be sure the suspension is in good working order, and maintenance like timing belt/water pump is up to date. Those things can get expensive. Doesn't hurt to have it checked out at the Lexus dealer, either, for a second opinion.
Brilliant and thank you for the link. Said vehicle has 85k miles on it. It's been taken care of. Privacy shade was checked as well. Great idea on checking with Lexus. I may call with the VIN.
With only 85k you should be in good shape. The dealer can pinpoint which area of the top is causing the issue (for example, it could be off track). Go out to LexusDrivers.com and register (anyone can do this). Put in the VIN and then click on Service History. That will not give you all of the history, but at least what is recorded from the Lexus dealer.
Besides Mercedes SL there is no other V8 engine hardtop convertible on the market. And if you want to put a golf bag in the trunk with the top down SC430 is it. But without the convertible top the car is just a dime in a dozen.
Chad, you need to get the free carfax/autocheck from the dealer and log in to Lexus site with a vin to check the car history. The top normally does not stop working due to age, its typically malfunctioning after an accident.
Chad, you need to get the free carfax/autocheck from the dealer and log in to Lexus site with a vin to check the car history. The top normally does not stop working due to age, its typically malfunctioning after an accident.
Thank you, I have the Carfax and no sign of an accident in person either. I have a bit of experience as a service manager and a keen eye. The paintwork appears original. I was unaware that the valet switch could prevent the top from retracting and the trunk from opening. Until I got home today after examining the car and did a thorough forum search. The vehicle has been a slow seller for them, and after examining underhood the battery was just replace this month also judging from the date code on it( Most likely from sitting. ). The valet switch may be on, or it may need the battery disconnected and reconnected. I will probably head back and look some more. They are asking 10k for an 85k mile car. It has brand new Continentals on it as well
$10k for a clean history no accident 2004 SC w/ only 85k miles, new tires, new battery etc is a deal! All you need is to find out if top works or not since that could easily be a five grand problem. I guess the used car market is indeed tanking like they are saying in the news.
Thank you, but I am not really worried about the top so much. For the price, and overall condition this vehicle is a great value. I'm handy enough to work my way through repairing it if need be. I was unaware of the valet switch today as I was looking at the vehicle. I may go back to look at it a bit more to determine the cause. It's hard troubleshooting a car on a car lot.
Check if this car was (probably) rear ended on the right side
The top switch flashed red while I held the brake down, in ln park. I held it for some time. I heard no mechanical noises either which prompted me to wonder if the signal for top down was being blocked.
I was thinking more on this and it's probably your valet switch (flashing red and top doesn't move). In the case of the SC430 I passed on, the top would open a few inches and then stop...certainly if it does that there is more involved...like a cable off track. But no movement might actually be a good sign.
Like others have mentioned a 2004 SC with 85k for $10k is a steal! I'm in NC and ship mine all the way from Florida to get mine. Around here SC430s in good condition are in short supply.
05-03-17, 01:37 PM
SC 430 shopping, top inop
. All our son needs to fit is his football pads and book bag. It would be a fun car for him.
