Navigating the world of car part sourcing can be complex, especially when considering international options. Many car owners are turning to Japan for high-quality components, and surprisingly, for some parts like ECUs (Engine Control Units), import duties may not apply. This opens up significant cost-saving opportunities for those in the know.
Like many others seeking reliable and cost-effective solutions, I’ve personally sourced Lexus parts directly from Amaya in Japan and have consistently avoided import duty charges. This experience is particularly relevant given my recent dealings with Lexus UK regarding a serious power steering issue on my Lexus LS460L.
Lexus LS460 Power Steering Problems: A Deeper Dive into VGRS Issues
My 2006 Lexus LS460L, with 61,000 miles, recently presented a concerning “exceeding full lock” warning. This was followed by a noticeable 45-degree offset in the steering wheel and a DTC C15A9 diagnostic code. Further investigation revealed a potential issue rooted in the Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) system, a known vulnerability in early LS460 models.
Digging deeper, I uncovered information about a voluntary safety recall issued in 2010 for power steering ECUs in 2008/09 manufactured Lexus vehicles in the UK. While only 44 cars were officially recalled, an internal Lexus Technical Service Bulletin from October 10, 2008, paints a clearer picture. This bulletin reveals that Lexus was aware of a design flaw in the original VGRS system. Consequently, modifications were made to the lock holder components within the steering link assembly to prevent unwanted movement, and the VGRS software in the ECU was updated. These production changes were implemented in October 2007, a mere 15 months after the LS460 and LS600h models were launched in June 2006.
It appears the 2010 recall might have been aimed at replacing the updated power steering ECUs from 2007/8 production onwards, addressing a recurring issue similar to that experienced in the initial production models. Interestingly, information from the USA suggests that some 2006/7 vehicles that had their power steering ECUs replaced under initial warranty, required a second replacement under the 2010 recall.
Further anecdotal evidence from the Lexus Owners Club (LOC) forums, specifically a member from Ayrshire, UK, who experienced the same power steering problem, suggests that Lexus addressed this issue under warranty even slightly after the warranty period had expired in 2010.
The Question of Product Recall and Fair Repair Costs
It seems Lexus has largely managed to keep this VGRS issue discreet, perhaps hoping it would eventually fade away. However, the argument remains that Lexus sold a premium vehicle in 2006/7 with inherent design weaknesses that arguably warrant a broader product recall. Owners fortunate enough to experience the problem within the initial 3-year warranty period were covered. However, for those of us encountering this issue later, what was a potentially £5000 repair in 2010 has now escalated to a staggering £8800 for parts alone from Lexus UK, excluding labor costs (estimated at one day).
Sourcing Car Parts from Japan: A Cost-Effective Alternative
Fortunately, there are alternative solutions. Japanese OEM parts suppliers like Megazip offer the same parts for significantly less – in my case, around £3031. Even if import duty were applied, it would likely only be on the steering link assembly, if at all. This stark price difference raises serious questions about Lexus UK’s pricing strategy and parts procurement efficiency. Are Lexus UK prices excessively inflated, or is there a significant inefficiency in their parts supply chain?
In conclusion, importing Car Parts From Japan, particularly for brands like Lexus, can offer substantial savings, especially when considering duty-free eligible components. Furthermore, understanding potential reliability issues, like the VGRS problem in early Lexus LS460 models, and exploring alternative sourcing options can empower car owners to maintain their vehicles effectively and economically.
