kevin09

I wonder if an extended warranty is needed if we purchase a used 2011 RX350?

StillLine

An extended warranty is simply an optional insurance policy and is not needed in my opinion. I figure I'm already paying for legendary Lexus reliability and don't need to spend extra on insurance. But, if you are one of the folks who feels better spending money for extra piece of mind, then go for it. If you just bought a BMW or a Dodge, then hell yes, buy all the extra warranty you can because you'll probably need it.

StillLine

MDames2

iTrader: (1)

Although Lexus reliability is very high, problems can still manifest. When they do, they're usually quite expensive. For that reason when I purchased my 2010 RX350 in October of 2012 I purchased a 6 year extended warranty. Even though I may never need to use it, I do have piece of mind for years to come. It is worth it to me. I also had an extended warranty on my wife's 2003 SC430. Although we've never had major mechanical issues, we did have several problems that the warranty paid for, such as needing a new brake booster ($1,500). All tolled, we paid $1,750 for the warranty, and had $2,600 in covered repairs. So we definitely benefitted. Do what you're most comfortable with.

mohrd

iTrader: (3)

kevin09, so much depends on how comfortable you are with risk.

Yes, my Lexus vehicles are the most reliable I have owned. Yes, I am comfortable without extended warranty but, I also self insure by setting a few bucks aside every month for unanticipated repairs.

All vehicle repairs these days are expensive if you aren't DIY. Hardly anything is actually repaired anymore, its simply replaced with a new component. Luxury brand components carry luxury prices.

If you can get a warranty that covers components that have a history of potential failure on your RX, at a reasonable outlay, do it. Peace of mind has huge value. But don't ever be po'd because you didn't get to use your warranty you paid for.

kevin09

Thanks all. If I bought it new, I would not buy the warranty. For used vehicles, we really don't know how previous owners abuse them.

lexus114

well, i bought mine new and am considering the extended warranty. mostly because i will probably keep for at least 8 years.

oohpapi44

iTrader: (1)

save the money you're going to spend for the warranty, put it in an interest bearing account and keep it accessible in case of repairs. Would be rare (if you're keeping up with maintenance and driving it like you want it to last for an extended period of time) that any breakdowns would be that much greater than what you''ve spent on warranty (and missing interest).

If repairs are needed, you have enough information on this site alone to do the repairs in a cost effective manner. So someone saying above (MDames) that they've had $2,600 in covered repairs doesn't tell the entire story because you're going with dealer rates. Actual cost of those repairs had you purchased the replacement parts on your own (RockAuto, Sewell, etc) and taken it to a trusted mechanic could probably be cut by half or more.

It's all relative though. I like being involved with my vehicle so when something goes wrong, i'm going to research the cause.