Deviance

Hey everyone,

I am thinking of getting a LS 430. I am pushing for a 2001-2005 LS equipped in UL. I am somewhat scared of the air system going out but if it does I am going to be installing coilovers. From what I read LS's with high mileage are not a problem but I wanted to ask you guys what to look for and ask the dealer or owner. Any tips will be helpful. There is a 2004 Silver/Black UL with 138k on it for about 15k that I am going to test drive this weekend.

Jabberwock

Read all the faqs. Then search on "tips", "advice", "help". In general these cars are ultra reliable and bullet proof if they are well maintained and gently driven. Weak areas are air suspension, power mirrors, tilt motors on steering column, NAV system dvd drive failures, blown OEM speakers and/or amp , and that's about it. High mile cars may have issues with motor mounts, oil seals, valve cover gaskets like any high mile car.

Deviance

Thank you for your reply I am using the search engine now.

ultm8mind

iTrader: (3)

Sounds like a fair price, if you already have it set in your mind that you're going to do coils if they go out then don't stress on it at all...looks like you already have a plan. If you're worried about the air ride stay away from a UL...

Dranom

iTrader: (7)

If you gonna change to coils then no worries!
Also if you can get that price down then that would be better

ultm8mind

iTrader: (3)

Always try to get the price down, lol

Deviance

I just found a new one. 2001 LS430 UL on White/tan with 71k with the dark wood for just under 15k

Deviance

I have been searching and cant find the answer for the differences between a 2001 and 2004 LS 430? other then the Headlights. can someone help me out.

Gene01

There are quite a few differences - some minor, and some major (e.g. 6-speed transmission).
Try googling "2004 LS430 reviews", since it is the first year of the "refresh".
2001 to 2003 were much alike, as were 2004-2006.

jimbosr1

here you go...http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_LS

Deviance

thanks for the info. I am looking at a 2005 black/black UL with 86k for $20k, 2004 UL Sliver/black with 138K @$15K, another 04 UL sliver/black with 72k @ $19k but 8 hours away , and an 2001 White/tan with blackwood with 72k @ $15k...... I have some serious thinking to do haha. I am now pushing toward a 2004-2005 since I like the smart key and the headlights look better. Does the six speed help on better MPGs?

tcr101

iTrader: (2)

Not certain about the 5spd vs 6spd but if the cars are around 90k i would have them do the water pump/timing belt for peace of mind. Many members have waited til 120k-ish before they swapped theirs (i am one of them), but if your buying it from the dealership might as well have them do the service and save ~1k in the process.

If I were you and have the extra money I would pick up the 04-06 for the facelift, but in the end its your call. Good luck

Deviance

Can I have any dealership complete the service? Only the 04 @ 138K is at a lexus dealer.

tcr101

iTrader: (2)

I would bargain to have the dealership complete the service if your going to purchase the car.I believe the wp/timebelt are recommended at 90k, but I waited til ~120k for mine.

Deviance

ok I will the main one im going for is at an audi dealer and Im going to ask them to get the service done before I pick up the car.