My check engine light is on. Is it safe to drive?

Basic rule that holds true with any vehicle, if the check engine light is on steady, and the vehicle is running ok with good oil pressure and not overheating, then it should be safe to drive until you can have the vehicle checked by your shop. If however the check engine light is flashing, and or you detect a performance problem, then it’s not recommended to drive the vehicle any distance.

My battery light is on in the dash. Is it safe to drive?

Normally when the battery light is on, that indicates a possible issue with the alternator. If indeed the alternator isn’t recharging the battery, you run the risk of being stranded if driven as the battery voltage will become depleted.

When should I have maintenance items like spark plugs, driveline fluids, timing belt, filters, etc?

By far the easiest way to keep up with all the maintenance items on your vehicle is to stay close to the Manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Remember all vehicles may not have the same service intervals for a certain item. So It’s always best to check the owner's manual for your specific vehicle.

We are driving on a long trip soon, but my car isn’t due for any maintenance yet. Should I have the vehicle looked over before leaving?

Absolutely 100% you should have the vehicle checked over before driving on any long trips. Things like spare tire pressure, quick visual inspection of tires for nails/cuts and pressures. Visual inspection under the hood to assure no leaks and all fluid levels are good. These things take maybe 15 minutes and are totally worth the piece of mind while traveling long distances.

There is a warning light on in my dash. What should I do? It seems to be running ok.

Every warning light on the instrument panel has a purpose. Warning lights are there to alert us that a computer/module has detected an abnormality in one of the systems on your vehicle. If you’re not sure what the light indicates, there is a section in your owner's manual that will give detailed information related to the light in question.

I have noticed a fluid leak under my car when parking ?

Any fluid leak should be inspected by your shop to verify the source. Trying to identify fluid on your driveway or parking lot can be a bit tricky. Coolant while water based, can have an oily feel on your fingers and may lead you to think it’s engine oil. Engine oil and transmission fluid are similar, but transmission fluid if not too spent, will have a red look unless it’s a CVT transmission. Engine oil could be darker looking, or clear if you just had the oil changed recently. Brake fluid is usually clear, but oily feeling much like engine oil. Checking the under hood fluid levels many times can lead you in the right direction.

How often should I change my engine oil?

I don’t think any 2 vehicle manufacturers are the same. At Creech Import Repair, we recommend every 5,000 miles to change the oil and filter. Many mfg’s recommend longer intervals, but if they extend past 5k we highly recommend checking the engine oil level every 1,000 miles. By nature of design, any internal combustion engine is going to use or consume some amount of oil. Also detergent in oil is designed to suspend by-products of combustion, which is what eventually turns the engine oil dark. At some point the detergent content will become loaded and can’t store anymore. This is the point when the engine can start to gum up inside with deposits and can be harmful to your engine and shorten its life.

Lexus LS Repair in Raleigh

Expert Maintenance & Repairs for Lexus’s Flagship Luxury Sedan

Since its groundbreaking debut in 1989, the Lexus LS has redefined the luxury sedan market with a blend of Japanese craftsmanship, smooth performance, and benchmark-setting reliability. Designed as Lexus’s flagship, the LS was engineered to challenge German luxury brands while offering refinement and dependability rarely matched in its segment. From the original LS 400 that stunned critics with its build quality, to today’s LS 500h with twin-turbocharged power and advanced driver-assist technologies, the LS has continuously evolved while maintaining its reputation for comfort and longevity.

At Creech Import Repair in Raleigh, we’ve serviced Lexus LS sedans from every generation. Our ASE-certified team understands the unique mechanical and electronic needs of these premium sedans—whether it’s addressing oil leaks in older V8s, recalibrating advanced safety systems in the latest models, or simply keeping your LS running smoothly for hundreds of thousands of miles.

Common Lexus LS Problems by Generation

1990–1994 Lexus LS 400 (First Generation)

Power Steering Pump Leaks – Early LS 400 models frequently suffered leaks that could damage the alternator below.
Fix:Replace power steering pump, inspect hoses, and clean alternator.
Starter Motor Wear – Hard starts due to worn contacts.
Fix:Replace starter contacts or complete unit.
Dashboard & Climate Control Display Failures –Dim or unreadable screens.
Fix:Replace backlight components or display units.

1995–2000 Lexus LS 400 (Second Generation)

Timing Belt Maintenance – Requires replacement every 90,000 miles.
Fix: Replace belt, water pump, tensioners, and seals together.
Suspension Bushing Wear – Causes clunks or wandering steering.
Fix: Replace bushings, control arms, or shocks as needed.
Instrument Cluster Problems – Flickering needles or dead gauges.
Fix: Rebuild or replace cluster components.

2001–2006 Lexus LS 430 (Third Generation)

Air Suspension Failures – Leaking struts or compressor issues.
Fix: Replace air struts, compressor, or convert to coil springs.
Navigation & Audio System Malfunctions – Screen freezes, CD changer jams.
Fix: Software updates or component replacement.
Valve Cover Gasket Leaks – Oil seepage onto hot engine surfaces.
Fix: Replace valve cover gaskets.

2007–2017 Lexus LS 460 / LS 600h (Fourth Generation)

Valve Spring Recall (2007–2008) – Faulty springs could cause stalling.
Fix: Replacement under recall or service repair.
Carbon Build-Up (Direct Injection Engines) – Causes rough idle and reduced power.
Fix: Walnut blasting or intake cleaning.
Transmission Hesitation – 8-speed automatic may feel jerky.
Fix: ECU reprogramming or fluid service.
Hybrid Battery Wear (LS 600h) – Reduced performance with age.
Fix: Reconditioning or battery replacement.

2018–Present Lexus LS 500 / LS 500h (Fifth Generation)

Twin-Turbo V6 Oil Leaks – Gasket issues in some early models.
Fix: Inspect and replace seals promptly.
Infotainment System Glitches – Touchpad interface lag and software bugs.
Fix: Software updates or unit replacement.
Ride Quality Complaints – Some models feel harsher than expected.
Fix: Suspension recalibration or replacement of adaptive dampers.
Hybrid Cooling Issues – LS 500h systems require proper maintenance of hybrid cooling ducts.
Fix: Inspect and clean cooling components regularly.

Issues Seen Across All Lexus LS Generations

Oil Leaks (Valve Covers, Cam Seals) – Frequent in aging V8 engines.
Electrical System Quirks – Climate control screens, power seats, and window switches may fail.
Suspension Wear – Bushings, ball joints, and struts often need attention on heavier sedans.
Brake Actuator Failures – Especially on hybrid and electronically controlled brake systems.

Services We Offer for Lexus LS Owners

Our shop is equipped to handle all the usual Corolla concerns, as well as routine services that keep your car running efficiently.

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Engine & Driveability

Spark plug and ignition coil replacement
Valve cover gasket repair
Fuel injector cleaning
Idle air control and VVT solenoid service
Engine diagnostics and check engine light analysis
Oil leak repair

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Heating & Cooling

A/C system inspection and recharging
Compressor and condenser replacement
Radiator and water pump repair
Cabin filter changes
Blower motor diagnostics

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Suspension & Braking

Brake pad and rotor replacement
Brake fluid flush
Suspension inspections and strut/shock replacement
Control arm and sway bar link repair
ABS light diagnosis and wheel speed sensor service

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Electrical & Interior

Battery testing and alternator diagnostics
TPMS sensor replacement and calibration
Window and door lock actuator service
Infotainment screen troubleshooting
Sensor recalibration for safety systems

Recommended Maintenance for Lexus Ls

Service	Interval	Benefit
Oil & Filter Change	5,000–7,500 miles	Extends engine life
Timing Belt (older V8 models)	90,000 miles	Prevents engine damage
Spark Plug	120,000 miles (iridium)	Maintains performance
Brake Fluid Flush	Every 2 years	Ensures safe braking
Coolant Flush	60,000 miles	Prevents overheating
Hybrid System Inspection (if equipped)	Every 30,000 miles	Protects hybrid components

Signs Your Lexus LS Needs Service

Warning lights (Check Engine, VSC, Hybrid System)
Jerky shifting or hesitation during acceleration
Oil spots under the car (leaks)
Clunking over bumps or sagging suspension
Unresponsive infotainment or safety features
Rough idle or reduced fuel economy

Book Your Lexus LS Repair in Raleigh

If your Lexus LS is showing signs of trouble—or if you just want to stay ahead of costly repairs—schedule service with Creech Import Repair. From luxury interior fixes to advanced hybrid diagnostics, we’ll keep your flagship sedan performing at its best.

📍 Visit Us: Creech Import Repair – Raleigh, NC
📞 Call: (919) [872-1999]
🌐 Book Online: Schedule an Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions – Lexus LS

Yes. The LS is one of the most reliable luxury sedans, with many LS 400s and LS 430s exceeding 300,000 miles when properly maintained.

Oil changes every 5,000–7,500 miles, coolant flushes every 60,000 miles, brake fluid flushes every 2 years, and timing belt service every 90,000 miles (on older V8s).

Yes, we service and replace LS air suspension struts, compressors, and sensors, and can perform coil spring conversions if desired.

Absolutely. We handle hybrid battery diagnostics, inverter repairs, and hybrid cooling system maintenance.

Worn suspension components such as bushings, ball joints, or struts are common culprits in higher-mileage LS sedans.

Contact us today

For an estimate with the most trusted auto repair shop in Wake County, Creech Import Repair!

Shop Location

1818 St. Albans Dr #106
Raleigh, NC 27609

Monday - Friday

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Call us 919-872-1999

Our Commitment to You

At Creech Import Repair, our philosophy is simple: Treat customers with kindness, respect, and honesty, and success will follow. Contact us for any and all of your automotive repair needs.

Please Note

Online bookings are not considered confirmed appointments until verified by a member of our Service Team.
We take your privacy very seriously. Learn more about how we protect your information by reading our Privacy Policy.

Schedule An Appointment

What Our Customers Are Saying

Robert W., Raleigh

"My LS 460 had a suspension issue that the dealership quoted at double the cost. Creech Import Repair fixed it honestly and it drives like new."

Karen T., Durham

"They’ve helped me maintain my classic LS 400 well past 300,000 miles. Great shop with real Lexus expertise."

Lexus LS Repair in Raleigh, NC

Expert Maintenance & Repairs for Lexus’s Flagship Luxury Sedan