Don't bet the farm on Carfax
12-08-15, 07:00 PM
#1
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Don't bet the farm on Carfax
Hello all,
I've been trolling this forum for some months now as I'm considering purchasing a 2007/2008 LS 460. I'm sure its been posted time and time again but a warning to any potential used car buyer:
Carfax is BS! Its a good starting point, however its not a good substitute for good old fashioned homework. Recently I was seriously considering taking up a dealer on a 2008 LS 460 with 38K on it for 24K. But, thanks to this forum, I plugged in the VIN number on the Lexus website and came across an interesting gem. Turns out when new in 2008 this particular Lexus was rear ended in a lot accident, at 30 miles. Tail lights, trunk damage and rear glass according to the notes, and further notes show they put it out after repair as a demo model with a special price. Im still considering the car, but its just another example of Carfax being helpful but not reliable. Hope to post on here soon with a new purchase, and thank you CL for the incredible amount of information.
I've been trolling this forum for some months now as I'm considering purchasing a 2007/2008 LS 460. I'm sure its been posted time and time again but a warning to any potential used car buyer:
Carfax is BS! Its a good starting point, however its not a good substitute for good old fashioned homework. Recently I was seriously considering taking up a dealer on a 2008 LS 460 with 38K on it for 24K. But, thanks to this forum, I plugged in the VIN number on the Lexus website and came across an interesting gem. Turns out when new in 2008 this particular Lexus was rear ended in a lot accident, at 30 miles. Tail lights, trunk damage and rear glass according to the notes, and further notes show they put it out after repair as a demo model with a special price. Im still considering the car, but its just another example of Carfax being helpful but not reliable. Hope to post on here soon with a new purchase, and thank you CL for the incredible amount of information.
12-08-15, 07:47 PM
#2
When I first read your post I thought "they were going 30 mph in the car lot?" 
It has been discussed here before that Carfax is not the end all and be all. If the accident is never reported to an insurance company, it is not likely to appear on a report.
I agree that I would not automatically rule the car out. If the repairs were done well and the price is right you could go for it. Let us know how it turns out.
It has been discussed here before that Carfax is not the end all and be all. If the accident is never reported to an insurance company, it is not likely to appear on a report.
I agree that I would not automatically rule the car out. If the repairs were done well and the price is right you could go for it. Let us know how it turns out.
12-09-15, 07:12 AM
#3
Pole Position
Anything internet related is questionable to begin with. There is no substitution for a visual inspection. The Lexus Drivers site is certainly invaluable, but until you view the car and even have it checked by a professional if possible, the deal isn't done.
I wondered why an 08 with only 38K was so low. Regardless what Edmunds, KBB or any of those sites say, finding a solid car with those numbers is worth more. Of course the car is worth what it sells for anyway.
As for the damage, a lot of used cars have had damage. Some worse than others. I'd rather it be the back end than the front for sure. As long as you see the info that it was done right, then it's probably ok. However, depending on how long the car has sat on the lot or drive, will determine what you can buy it for. Just keep in mind, when you go to sell it, you'll need to disclose the wreck and the value will be based on that fact.
Good luck.
I wondered why an 08 with only 38K was so low. Regardless what Edmunds, KBB or any of those sites say, finding a solid car with those numbers is worth more. Of course the car is worth what it sells for anyway.
As for the damage, a lot of used cars have had damage. Some worse than others. I'd rather it be the back end than the front for sure. As long as you see the info that it was done right, then it's probably ok. However, depending on how long the car has sat on the lot or drive, will determine what you can buy it for. Just keep in mind, when you go to sell it, you'll need to disclose the wreck and the value will be based on that fact.
Good luck.
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