Jordanbid

I have 10k to spend on a higher mileage 2006 is350 but i was just curious to how expensive it is to work on lexus in general? I was under the impression that it is basically toyota parts correct? Iv owned a solara for about 6 years and love it but need to upgrade lol.

1Dawg

I bought as IS 350 with 110k on it in October. I had an issue with the car not starting(new battery and starter solenoid) and other than that just routine maintenance. But I have found that prices for what I bought were not high priced. By the way I came from a 2000 wrangler and I love this car, it is a ton of fun to drive. The power and luxury are great for the price.

SC400slide

iTrader: (11)

Depends what part you're replacing. Oil filter? You can get one for 5 bucks at wally world but it wouldn't be a very good option. Just about every part on a Lexus will say Toyota somewhere on it since Lexus is essentially Toyota.

Also, 10k seems a little strong for a 350 with higher mileage, maybe I'm spoiled with the market I live in...

ColdFusion

iTrader: (2)

As a higher mileage '06 IS350 owner, I'll chime in a bit:

-Yes, Lexus parts are Toyota made, however certain parts that are Lexus-specific will carry a markup based on the fact that they're specifically for Lexus. Some Toyota shops won't even sell certain part numbers. Whenever possible, try to ID the OEM part number based on manufacturer (Aisin, Denso, KYB, and I think Akebono are all OEM's for a bunch of Toyota parts) - you will save a LOT of money that way.

-The average oil change for me is about $25-30 DIY; ~$5-7 for a K&N oil filter (Amazon) and $20 or so for the oil (6.5qts of synthetic, make sure you buy a ton on sale so you can save that way).

-Past 100k miles, you're looking at significant costs on certain maintenance items. The TPMS sensors may start to go out, your shocks may be leaking, the engine/rubber mounts may have worn out, or, in my case, the crankshaft main and rod bearings all need to be replaced. Make sure whatever car you buy, get a 3rd-party mechanic to do a full inspection so that way you know what NEEDS to be fixed once the car is in your hands.

Past that, it's like any other Toyota, just a tad faster.

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

^FYI, the main and rod bearings needing to be replaced IS NOT normal.

BTW, here's a good deal on one without ridiculous mileage; but it's in FL :

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Lexus-IS-IS2...m=322041642994

ColdFusion

iTrader: (2)

Yup definitely not normal, just telling OP a worst case scenario should he not inspect properly before buying

Tro209

Relatively simple and easy maintenance honestly. The 2IS, especially the IS350 and ISF are some of Lexus/Toyotas most reliable vehicles in my opinion.

The rod bearing mentioned above is not normal and honestly the first Ive heard of it. However as with any car you never really know what you may be getting yourself into. So bring a trusted mechanic or knowledgable friend along with you to check it out. Drive the car thoroughly and have the salesman shut up when you drive. You need to listen carefully for any odd sounds or squeaks that may cause for concern. Last thing you wanna do it buy someone elses problem. Even though I find it unlikely for an IS to have many issues it all depends on previous owners. Also sometimes the car is just a lemon so keep that in mind. When I bought my 06 IS350 with 78k miles 2 years ago, I didnt realize my back up cam was glitchy. Where sometimes it works and sometimes it doesnt. But it was too late to mention that or have fixed since the dealer said it was sold "As is"...

Anyway, just be sure you check the car properly and drive it hard on the test drive and easy as well. If you can, ask for an extended drive to really get a feel for the car. And remember to have the salesman shut up and any passengers you have with you so you can properly test drive and hear everything you need to with the car. (Im repeating myself but its just because its that important)

Im sure you'll be able to find a good example and when you do, the car should be a relatively easy to care for car. Just routine oil changes, spark plugs, coolant etc.. and your good to go And if anything DOES ever happen , you got us here at ClubLexus to help you out

Best of luck to you!!

Bichon

Agreed; that kind of damage that occurs if you drive for months with the "LOW OIL" light on, or try to go 50,000 miles between oil changes.

lex2nv

Where in cali are you located?