L's TLS

iTrader: (1)

Hey guys I'm thinking of purchasing a higher mileage 07+ GS350 RWD (possibly AWD) as a comfortable daily so I don't have to drive my truck in DC every day.

I found one that's in excellent shape. Carfax checks out and it even comes with Lexus 19s, ML audio, rear shade etc. I test drove it and it rode really good. Seemed to be in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition.

It's Blue on Tan, however it has 121k on it. The dealership is asking $13.8k.

Do you guys think this is a good deal? How's the reliability and maintenance like after 100k? All thoughts and opinions are welcome. Thanks in advance.

I'd like to note I can perform most maintenance on my own as I'mmechanically inclined and my 2000 ES300 ran strong until 240k when it was hit and totalled.

Tantrix

these cars aren't at bulletproof as we would think it is.

seems like there's always a post about engine stumbling or start up noise. these issues a lot of times get very expensive to fix

bigblack06

iTrader: (20)

The reliability is fine most of the issue's landed in the 06' GS 300. In terms of good deal I'm not to sure, guessing it has navi I would say the price is reasonable. Where is the car located, a dealership or private dealer. Some checks would be look at the water pump, the low beams, belts in engine (not timing chain). If maintenance worries you get an extended warranty if its at a dealer.

Gotcha350

Transmission seem to be the weakest link on this car. Once you. Get to 100k...its a gamble as to what's going to happen if the fluid hasn't been changed. Its not bulletproof like the older Lexus models. The more features you add the more failures you can expect.

L's TLS

iTrader: (1)

Everyone thanks for your posts. I went ahead and pulled the trigger on it. I was able to talk them down some on the price as well. The car looks and performs like it only had 21K on it opposed to 121k. Very very clean Black Sapphire Pearl on Tan with Lexus 19's fully loaded (ML, rear shade, etc) To add to the deal, it already had the VAIS ipod connection which held me over until the Bluetooth unit came in (just installed). While completing the install of the VAIS unit I discovered the navi and dvd hack were already completed (BONUS) and its already hardwired for a valentine radar detector making my life a bit easier.

I just ordered all of the fluids, filters, and plugs needed for a 120K service and will be performing that this weekend as well as replacing the trunk switch, upgrading lighting, and adding an amp to the Ml subwoofer. Looking forward to get at least another 120k out of this beauty.

ta1972

iTrader: (1)

Maintain the maintenance earlier then it will last.

ta1972

iTrader: (1)

Older second gen gs is more bullet proof and reliable then the 3rd gens.

L's TLS

iTrader: (1)

Update to the thread two years later. The car is going strong still with 148K (daily driven) Only issues were an alternator, seized rear rotors, and a bad tpms. The car has been very good to me, I look forward to keeping it for years to come.

sha4000

iTrader: (1)

Wow thanks for coming back an updating the thread.

L's TLS

iTrader: (1)

Anytime! Update again, I'm just over 160k and the car has been running smoothly. No issues whatsoever. Just normal maintenance and shes drive just like the day I purchased her.

gs350fan

These cars are like the Crown Vics that end life at 120K as a police cruiser and then another 500K as a cab, then someone buys it to trick it out :lol:. Not perfect but with good maintenance and small repairs it is very keepable.

They are actually called "Toyota Crowns" internationally, you can look it up. Instead of the Lexus emblem in the front, there is a crown. Otherwise the same car.
They are designed for police and taxi use.

potatomon

I'd say it's very solid car and just the right value ESP when you do the work yourseld

ibidu1

iTrader: (1)

Aside from the light diesel truck engines, the crown vics had the most reliable, most solid engines ever. Maybe the LS430 is right up there with them.

gs350fan

The LS400 and Crown Vic were compared (as competitors) in a Motorweek video, I could probably find it.