ceedub53

Red flags on this car for sure...

Bocatrip

Have it checked out by an independent Lexus dealer and get it up on a lift. No reason to second guess.

KING

iTrader: (1)

Normal cars average 18,000 miles a year, that's how you calculate a cars mileage and see if it isn't driven too much. I say that's different with the Lexus line, especially the LS430. I think LS430's can easily do 30,000 miles a year and still function properly without any defects.

My car is an 06' and it has 13x,xxx miles on it, and it drives like a brand new car.

Think about it.

warminwisc

I think if it was in a crash which broke the engine mounts it would be easy to see paint lines on the fenders and engine bay. If yur budget is 8600 bucks it sounds like a solid car if it checks out inspection. How long will an LS430 last?, as long "as you want it to" like so many Toyotas.

XJSFan

Sounds like an excellent car. I would get the vin number and run it on Lexus.com and run it like it was your car. It will show you what's been done and when. The Carfax does not get specific enough with service records. You can also have the Lexus dealer run the vin and they can tell you exactly what was done on the car. Do not ASSUME anything regarding a possible accident until you get it on a lift. Good luck...

ceedub53

I ran the VIN. Over 100 service entries from two owners exclusive to Lexus service at dealerships. The engine mount (single) was replaced from the left side of the engine. One entry from same service record and date called "BODY". My guess is that there may have been some body work done? There are so many service entries, it reads like a book. Nothing else sticks out as anything other than normal maintenance. Drive belt replaced at 123k. Most service entries every 5k (90k, 95k, 100k, 105k, 110k). 'LOAN CAR DUE BACK DAY AFTER REPAIRS FINISHED". Didn't know Lexus gives you a loaner if you drop your car off for service, not bad. CarFax definitely does not show all service entries by a long shot.

tcr101

iTrader: (2)

Purchased my 01 with 170k, currently has 235k. Had to service the waterpump/timing belt, lower control arm bushings, valve cover gaskets, driver side vvti sensor? (sits in front/on top of each bank), and radiator. I paid less, but it doesn't sound like a bad deal. As others suggest, have a mechanic look at it. These cars are pretty much bulletproof.. Heck mine still hits 135 (electronically limited).

Hows the rubber on the door moldings? Might want to have that replaced before you pick it up.

warminwisc

My back upper moldings split but still sealed fine. They are cheap/easy.

Bocatrip

When you have a clean desirable LS430 for cheap money, they don't last long unless there are obvious issues. Don't drag your feet too long on this one if it checks out.

ceedub53

The car is approx. 165 miles from me. My daughter and I may take a ride down this Sunday to see it.

L8RSk8R

Engine mounts were replaced @ 72,807 Probably felt some vibration = had the engine mounts replaced.
Drag link end replaced @ 86,233 They do wear out/rubber boot cracks.

I'd say the owner was extremely diligent, keeping this car up on it's services.
Impressive list of services, & I like the exterior color.
It's priced $1500 over retail book value. You'll spend that much, having the timing belt replaced.

P.S I've seen this happen before...you mention a good deal on the forum & someone else beats ya to it

Lavrishevo

iTrader: (1)

Drag link? Don't you mean tie rod ends? Looking up the definition I don't think it applies to the ls430.

ceedub53

"Drag Link" was the term used in the CarFax report.

XJSFan

Get it on the lift and test drive it... For $7K-$8K today you can not expect that much. The average new car sold today is around $32K...

writes123

Did you purchase the car?