thestudent

Hey all,

This is my first post after browsing the forum for a bit. I came across this forum and it has increased my interest in this vehicle. I came across a 1997 ES 300 going for $4k. It has 150k miles and is black ext and black int and looks pretty clean. The carfax checks out with no accidents and the last owner had timely oil changes, had the fuel system cleaned, and did regular maintenance. I have provided some pictures of the car below. I am a student who will be using the vehicle to commute from campus to work about 12 mi each way and run regular errands. Is this vehicle advisable for that type of driving? Please let me know if this looks like an decent deal at this price point, thank you!

INNOUTFAN

That would be a great deal in Colorado. Most out here are going for close to $5,000 and have higher mileage. That car looks super clean, nice chrome wheels and in great shape. If you have the vehicle maintenance history that's even better. You'll fall in love with it. I purchased my '97 a few months back, paid more than $4k and love it.

hypervish

Sounds like a pretty decent deal.

Yes, that's a perfect commuter car. Comfortable, reliable, and classy.

The black exterior is going to be a pain to keep clean though. Trust me, I know. LOL, but once it is all clean and without any swirls it will look amazing.

Do you have the VIN for it? If so, sign up at www.lexus.com in the owners resources section and then input the VIN and check the service history (only things done at Lexus will show up, unless the owner added themselves).

thestudent

Thanks for the replies. Yeah I am a little worried about the black, but it makes it a little more sleek. I do have the VIN, thanks for the resource.

I will be checking it out tomorrow morning and if it passes inspection I will be the owner in the afternoon. Pretty excited.

GoodRevs

I bought my 01 ES when I was an undergrad so I wouldn't need to use my Cadillac as my daily driver. Best decision I ever made. My ES has been very reliable and a comfortable commute car on trips. You'll really take a liking to the car. 4k is a good price too, but 3.3k would be great. Good luck.

thestudent

I'll definitely try my best to get the price lowered, but seeing as these cars seem to hold value pretty well and based on condition it'll be tough to get under 4.

GoodRevs

Nothing wrong with paying $4k. Just get a pre-purchase inspection done, or at least bring a friend who knows cars with you.

Hayk

iTrader: (1)

At that year and mileage, you really need a thorough mechanical inspection - ask me how I know....

Inspect the suspension by driving and listening for any abnormalities. Inspect the valve covers for leakage. Inspect the AC system, ABS, and every electrical component. Check that the instrument cluster isn't burned out and that all the radio lights work.

I knew about this site, but didn't know that users could add their own records as well - that's really cool! I went ahead and copied all my service records onto to the site, thanks a lot.

thestudent

thanks for the advice I will be sure to do a thorough inspection of my own as well as take it into a mechanic for inspection.

hypervish

You're welcome.

Yup, it's awesome.

thestudent

Alright well I didn't go with the above, but they had another 1997 ES in beige with 125,000 miles. Looks clean besides the normal wear and tear. Only issue was a small oil leak but it's covered under a warranty. Proud to be a new owner!

Hayk

iTrader: (1)

Congratulations! Where was the oil leak?

hypervish

X2, Congratulations!

thestudent

I had a mechanic lift it up for me and there was only a single drop that came down it was hard to pinpoint exactly where it was sourced from. I will be taking it in if I cannot find the source myself. I will keep you all updated once I pick it up tomorrow.