FitDesiGuy

Hello all,

Hopefully you all are doing well. About a few months ago I purchased a 2000 Lexus Es300 with 117k miles for $4500. Overall it is in pretty good condition. Based on the online service history, several things have been done. A Tranny flush was done at 100k, timing belt and water pump changed at 91k, struts in the rear changed at 75k, rear main seal was changed just before I bought it, and the valve cover gasket was replaced about a year ago. The battery was tested by my mechanic and he said it is basically brand new. Tires were done less than a year ago as well, and when I purchased it, I had new strut mounts and front struts done on it. I'm planning on taking this vehicle on a 2500 mile in total trip. I'm wondering if there is anything that would prevent this car from successfully completing the road trip?


Also, I'm wondering if you think this car will last another 8-9 years? I am going to go into med school and would like a car that will last me without any major problems. The car has 0 zero rust spots and is in very good condition.


Thank you!

Stereorob

these cars if looked after really will run forever. how far of a trip are we talking?

greg3852

You've had it for a couple of months, I would think anything catastrophic would have presented itself. Things can go wrong with a brand new car. Sounds like the service history is good, I personally wouldn't have an issue going anywhere with it.

Here is a $1500 Lexus LS going for a million miles. Last check it was at 933k miles

Million Mile LS

jadu

iTrader: (42)

I'd double check the brakes, tire pressure for all four tires and the spare and just familiarize yourself with the car really. Know how to operate the defrosters, heat, A/C etc and make sure they work, double check the wipers and make sure the tire changing items are in the trunk. make sure you also have the wheel key locks. This ES should last you given you take care of it.

PFB

Check all fluids, and change oil if due, or if it will become due prior to returning home.

lsiberian

Be sure to check the spare out too. Nice thing is the 2000 ES has a full spare so if you do hit something you can keep going. My local Lexus guy uses the ES as loaner cars for a reason.

Oro

Among "all fluids" - pay attention to the coolant.

It was likely renewed with the tbelt, so a drain/fill every 30k after that is adequate. Use the "Red" or just get the premixed "Asian" at the local store (Zerex brand). But also pay attention to the hoses, examine them and look for bulges or softening, especially at the connection ends. If you find that, change them to prevent a breakdown.

Lastly, I'd be really consistent about frequent quality oil changes, and decent quality filters (Bosch premium and the factory Denso are excellent and fairly priced). The oil control valves need clean, quality oil to run a long life (as well as other engine elements).

BDSL

1. Read the owner's manual.
2. Check all tire pressure (including the spare) before and during the trip.
3. Check all fluids before and during the trip.
4. Make sure your jack works and you know how to change to your spare.

PFB

Consider Joining AAA.

Well worth it incase of an unexpected breakdown. Plus many other benefits,

OceanView

Should be good for a long trip with lots of parts easily available.

RXGS

iTrader: (2)

I've never doubted taking any of my cars on a road trip, whether it be my current 2002 GS or my old 2001 ES. Just check what you would with any other car; tires, fluids, and maybe the serpentine belt to make sure its good. If the brakes were bad or calipers sticking, you would have noticed already.

yeskay

100k is still young on the engine.

Oro

As a general tip, I keep previously removed functional items that are prone to disabling the vehicle in the trunk, stashed down in the wheel well out of sight, or in the trunk. Things like:

Serpentine belt I previously replaced when doing the timing belt
Couple of old spark plug and coil (if I have an old one/spare)
Old windshield wipers I last changed out
Gallon of old coolant (since Toyota "Red" may not be handy if a radiator cap or hose fails),
Tire repair kit
Etc.

These things (other than the coolant) take up no otherwise used cargo space when down in the wheel well or in a cubby.

Thus if something fails, I don't have to worry about finding the exact-fit new part in a small town, after hours, or on weekends. This did pay off handsomely once about six years ago when a fairly new, high-quality serpentine belt decided to say good-bye to a 1998 Land Cruiser while I was on the freeway one Sunday and with horses in tow. 20 or 30 minutes later I was back on the way home and not stranded over night with a real headache on my hands.