Lexus Certified vs Private Party Sale

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Nov 7, 2009 | 08:46 PM

Synergy

Thread Starter

Northern California Regional Officer

Joined: May 2001

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From: California

Lexus Certified vs Private Party Sale

As some of you know, I am in the market for a 2008 LS460 SWB and there seems to be more on the market everyday which is good for me

.

Recently I have seen some great deals on "private party" sales such as 2008 with 20K miles for $47K and a comparible certified car is in the mid to high 50's at a dealer.

Once the 2010's hit I would expect this to get even better for buyers who are looking for 2008 models.

What do you guys think? Should I only go for a certified car and pay between 6 - 10K more?

Thanks in advance!

Nov 7, 2009 | 10:03 PM

AceVA

Driver

Joined: Aug 2009

Posts: 162

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From: VA

I'm sure I could have gotten a better deal, even through another dealer, much less private party. Nonetheless, the vehicle was nearly pristine, was the color and option combination I wanted and had less than 15k miles - I went with the CPO in the mid 50's (also an 08 SWB - all options.) I don't like private party transactions personally - a few bad experiences (as both a seller and buyer) have turned me completely off from them. The Lexus backed peace of mind was worth it for me, but of course, YMMV.

Also note, not all CPO vehicles are created equal either. I've seen some dealers 'certify' vehicles that shouldn't have been certified. Still make sure you perform due diligence regardless if it's a private party or dealer transaction.

Good luck with your search!

Nov 7, 2009 | 11:29 PM

rominl

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From: Lovely OC

if you get a car with around 20k, that means you have roughly another 20k and 2 yr of warranty. with a cpo car, you get another extra warranty, so that's where the price difference go imho. if it's 10k difference then i don't think it's worth it, if it's within 5k margin then i guess it's debatable

Nov 7, 2009 | 11:41 PM

warminwisc

Pole Position

Joined: Oct 2008

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From: wi

I always buy private party and have done very well. The LS is an adult driven car and is usually taken care of. Alot of CPO cars come from the auction so what's the diff. MAke sure you are picky and get maint reciepts and even talk to the service department. They remember clients and can tell you if they have had regular service. Then enjoy the savings and get your own extended warranty yourself if you feel you need it.

Nov 8, 2009 | 02:53 PM

Synergy

Thread Starter

Northern California Regional Officer

Joined: May 2001

Posts: 830

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From: California

Good feedback, warrany is always good...I will continue my quest to find a charcoal grey 08 (not many around) and if I find one for a few K more that is CPO I will go for it!

Nov 8, 2009 | 03:15 PM

AceVA

Driver

Joined: Aug 2009

Posts: 162

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From: VA

That's a great color. I was torn between that and Truffle Mica. I ended up going with Truffle Mica.

Good luck on the search!

Nov 8, 2009 | 03:40 PM

sct03

Driver School Candidate

Joined: Oct 2009

Posts: 1

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From: NC

Certification

I bought my 460 from a private party and the dealership actually certified it for 1700 bucks. 2007 LS 460L with 49 k miles on it. It's worth a shot. I did the scheduled maintenance package for 1500 as well.

Thanks!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Synergy

As some of you know, I am in the market for a 2008 LS460 SWB and there seems to be more on the market everyday which is good for me