RXHokie

Hi! Thank you for taking the time to read my post. This is my first post. And my apologies if you've read a million of "what should I look for in a used GS" post already.

I have a 2012 RX 350 AWD that I bought new, but I really like the GS sedans and kind of in the market for one. Probably a 2010-12. I wouldn't want too old of a car and constantly have to maintain it or deal with unforeseen issues. I'd love to have a 4th gen GS too but they're still little expensive and I wouldn't mind having a 3rd gen because I always thought it had a very classic shape. I love the 4th Gen's interior but I like the 3rd gen's looks more.

I'd greatly appreciate it if you could get me going in the right directions.

* is there a specific model year that I want to buy or want to stay away from? I.e., are some model years known for really nasty issues or creaks and rattles that you do not want to deal with?

* What are the major maintenance items that I should be looking for?

* any must have options that I'd really want to have?

* Even though I said I probably want a 2010-12, would it be ok to pull the trigger if I run into a beautifully maintained earlier model ones?

* any other thoughts or things I should know?

Thank you for your help and looking forward to becoming a part of this community !

Gotcha350

10-12 should be fine...even if you went down to a 09 you would be fine if it was well maintained...10+ has the media Gen 6 navi so that's a plus...

rl9010

Welcome to ClubLexus!

After reading your post it seems you are on the right path. I recently (read two weeks) changed from my gen 2 gs300 with 298k to a new to me 2011 gs450h with 30k! So I totally understand where you are coming from. I chose my car based on research and the condition I found my car in.

As for model year you are also on the right path but extend it to 2008 and above:

2008 there was a fascia change
2009 was the last year to have a tape deck. For GS450H the trunk space grew by 40% due to a smaller hybrid battery.
2010-2011 is the same
(GS450h except for light trim if i am not mistaken.)
2012: Does not exist as Gen 3. Gen 4 GS was introduced as a 2013 model but launched in 2012.

I would look into the sticky threads for all the differences. There was a thread showing small differences in the drop down control panel, change of steering wheel design, etc. between a 2006 vs 2008 I believe.

The decision to hybrid or not is up to you and I suggest test driving all models.
I chose the GS450h because it felt special. Note the GS450h is not designed for eco driving, it is a pure performance sedan with torque everywhere! If you are looking for significant gas savings because it is a hybrid you are buying the wrong car.

If AWD is something you want then GS350 AWD is what you want.

Things to have:

I really liked the suspension APSS system (active power stability system) Essentially electronically controlled sway bar system. This is a rare option that unfortunately was not on my gs450h, but I think an upgrade to f-sport sway bars will accomplish the same result.

Depending on how lazy a driver you are you may love the laser guided cruise control.

I think most of the newer cars come with AVS which is electronically adjustable dampers between sport and normal.

I believe most cars came loaded factory so choosing between some of these options is your difference.

Major maintenence items...I can't say but assume standard lexus mileage milestone maintenence. i.e. none hehe

If you are planing on buying the car with intention to mod then I would look into the GS460 or GS350 as parts support is there. If you want a no fuss perfectly fine stock car...any model should do.

Good luck on your search and I am sure you will land the car you want. Note, these are my thoughts on the GS line and by no means an end all.