GS430 First Year Reliability
#1
Pit Crew
Thread Starter
GS430 First Year Reliability
Hi all,
I was looking at getting a SC430 but can't find one in good shape for 10k eur. I have however found a couple of GS430 (3rd gen) that appear decent at this price. They're however first year models (2005).
My question is are these cars less reliable than later models (07+)? The engine is the old 3UZ, and the gearbox had been out for a few years, too. I've read that the V6 models were bad (first year DI), but I'm not interested in a V6 (might as well buy a I4 MX5 and call it a day).
I'm a PhD student (three years in, one year left), so 10k eur is about a hard cap. GS460 isn't an option. (In fact, I'd much preferred to get a coupe / convertible instead of a executive sedan, but money doesn't allow that at the moment.)
Another option would be a first gen IS300 Sportcross, but there's no clean car for sale.
I was looking at getting a SC430 but can't find one in good shape for 10k eur. I have however found a couple of GS430 (3rd gen) that appear decent at this price. They're however first year models (2005).
My question is are these cars less reliable than later models (07+)? The engine is the old 3UZ, and the gearbox had been out for a few years, too. I've read that the V6 models were bad (first year DI), but I'm not interested in a V6 (might as well buy a I4 MX5 and call it a day).
I'm a PhD student (three years in, one year left), so 10k eur is about a hard cap. GS460 isn't an option. (In fact, I'd much preferred to get a coupe / convertible instead of a executive sedan, but money doesn't allow that at the moment.)
Another option would be a first gen IS300 Sportcross, but there's no clean car for sale.
#2
If it's been maintained well then it's a great motor...now the transmission...jury is still out on that. I'm not sure where you are located or what the service interval is, if there is one, for the transmission but the 430 is a rock solid engine.
#3
Pit Crew
Thread Starter
So the 5 speed is considered more reliable?
I'm in France (near Paris) at the moment. Used cars are insanely expensive compared to neighbouring countries (20-40% mark-up). I'll be importing one (hopefully).
I'm in France (near Paris) at the moment. Used cars are insanely expensive compared to neighbouring countries (20-40% mark-up). I'll be importing one (hopefully).
#7
Pit Crew
Thread Starter
Yes, but in EU it was slightly earlier. There are also LS430 from 2000 (year end of model year 2001). The 2005 GS430 I mentioned is probably MY06. The first half of 05 it was 2nd gen MY05.
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