martay_guy

I own a 2002 ES 300 that currently has 173K miles on it and am looking for some guidance.

The vehicle is in great shape and has been well maintained. It has had oil changes every 5-6K miles, a transmission service at 120K miles, along with the other maintenance items such as brakes, tires, etc.

The only issues I have had was a short in the electrical system a few months ago that fried the starter and weakened the battery ($650 total for labor, new starter, new battery, and repair the wiring), a broken spring in the fuel tank release (hasn't been repaired yet, but will cost me $190), and a few small cosmetic dents and dings (which I plan to get "dent doctored" if I decide to keep the vehicle.)

The car had the 90K service at around 91K. I am now at 173K and approaching 180K and want to hear about the experiences of others with 2002-03 ES 300s with 180-200K miles on them, especially with regard to this service.

I would like to keep the car as long as possible.

Just a few questions:

-How costly is the 90K service, and can it be done anywhere else cheaper (ie-Toyota dealer)? I live in the metro Pittsburgh, PA area.

-What other mechanical issues have folks had with 2002-03 ES 300s with 175K+ miles on them? I would like to anitcipate some things. For example, the suspension is original, etc.

-Does the car at any point need a tune-up?

I am trying to decide whether to get the 90K service, in which case I would keep the vehicle until 270K+ miles barring a blown engine or transmission.

The thoughts/insights of 2002-03 ES 300 owners in similar situations would be appreciated!

jag1

just looking to get my '99 es serviced for the 90 K. dealer quaoted me $1,900!! I will edit the quote, but essentially stuff I can't do myself; i.e. windshield wipers, air filters, etc. timing belt, spark plugs, tranny/radiator flush. hope to keep it about $1,500.
good luck

yeldogt

The spark plugs get replaced every 100k - the brake fluid every three years - the coolant every five years. Some of the vehicles list the coolant as 150k before replacement. I do the trans fluid refresh every 50k.


At 175k your suspension struts must be getting close to the end. The 90k service can be anywhere from 600 to 1200 depending of the shop and what is done.


My 2000ES was in unbelievable shape when it hit 200k. I put new rotors/ pads and tires on it as well as doing the full service -- I figure this would take me out another 50k on these items and by that time it would be ready to go. Unfortunately the transmission failed at 220k -- but I still figured it was worth the $1700 to get it fixed. The car is now in the mid 230k and going strong -- still never uses any oil ........... And it is still worth at least 3-4K

mykidsdad

Jag1, they are ripping you off. I have an '05 ES 330 that I was quoted at $960.00 for the entire 90K mile maintenance at the Lexus dealership here in San Antonio. I was told that the service contains like 26 different things to be done. Luckily, one of the main technicians and my saleman friend are close. So I get it all done on the side for $250.00 cash.