Lexus · Known Issues

2004 Lexus SC Problems: 3 Known Issues

2004 model year · 2,600+ owner reports · Updated August 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,600+ owner reports, the 2004 Lexus SC has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Timing Belt Service Critical Interval ($800-$1,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Timing Belt Service Critical Interval with 1,100 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $800 to $2,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Lexus SC problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,600+ owner reports, the 2004 Lexus SC has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Timing Belt Service Critical Interval, Dashboard Melting and Sticky Surface, AC Compressor Clutch and Bearing Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Lexus SC reliable?

The 2004 Lexus SC has 3 known issues documented across 2,600+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Timing Belt Service Critical Interval. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Lexus SC problems?

Repair costs for known Lexus SC issues range from $800 to $2,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Timing Belt Service Critical Interval, typically costs $800-$1,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2002-2010 Lexus SC Timing Belt Service Critical Interval?

The SC430 uses the 3UZ-FE V8 with a timing belt that must be replaced at 90,000-mile intervals. The 3UZ-FE is an interference engine, meaning a broken timing belt causes pistons to strike valves, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. Many SC430 owners are unaware of this criti… Repairs typically run $800-$1,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2002-2010 Lexus SC Dashboard Melting and Sticky Surface?

The SC430 dashboard develops the same sticky, melting surface as other Lexus models from this era. The convertible design exposes the dashboard to even more direct sunlight than sedan models, accelerating the deterioration. The dashboard material becomes dangerously reflective on… Severity: medium.

What is the 2002-2010 Lexus SC AC Compressor Clutch and Bearing Failure?

The AC compressor on the SC430 suffers from clutch and bearing failure, particularly on vehicles in hot climates where the AC system runs constantly. The compressor clutch plate wears and the bearing develops excessive play, eventually causing the compressor to seize. When the co… Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: medium.

2004 Lexus SC Problems: 3 Known Issues

All 3 Known Issues

When Issues Typically Appear

2002-2010 Lexus SC: Timing Belt Service Critical Interval#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

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2002-2010 Lexus SC: Dashboard Melting and Sticky Surface#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Owner tips & cautions

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2002-2010 Lexus SC: AC Compressor Clutch and Bearing Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

Owner tips & cautions

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Other Lexus Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Lexus SC problems?

Is the Lexus SC reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Lexus SC problems?

What is the 2002-2010 Lexus SC Timing Belt Service Critical Interval?

What is the 2002-2010 Lexus SC Dashboard Melting and Sticky Surface?

What is the 2002-2010 Lexus SC AC Compressor Clutch and Bearing Failure?