Wife and I buying a 1st gen RX!
11-11-12, 09:01 AM
#17
Just me...
The trans will usually shift pretty well until near a failure. I'd still recmnd to pull the trans dipstick with a white paper towel, just to see and smell the current condition (even though they could have changed the fluid recently). Does it happen to have a detailed history that includes previous trans service?
Another thing to check for: a "lazy" power door lock solenoid. When you lock with the remote key, do all locks (incl. liftgate) ALWAYS lock (and a confirmation short beep) or does one sometimes get "lazy" and not lock all the way (sometimes the locked doors will UNLOCK automatically after a few seconds if one fails)... seems like somewhat common failure as they age. Not a cheap dealer repair, not a "fun" DIY. Get them to include replacement in writing if there is a lazy or inoperative solenoid.
The trans cond./history (warrantee?) and if you like the color combo might be worth a few bucks.to you.
The trans will usually shift pretty well until near a failure. I'd still recmnd to pull the trans dipstick with a white paper towel, just to see and smell the current condition (even though they could have changed the fluid recently). Does it happen to have a detailed history that includes previous trans service?
Another thing to check for: a "lazy" power door lock solenoid. When you lock with the remote key, do all locks (incl. liftgate) ALWAYS lock (and a confirmation short beep) or does one sometimes get "lazy" and not lock all the way (sometimes the locked doors will UNLOCK automatically after a few seconds if one fails)... seems like somewhat common failure as they age. Not a cheap dealer repair, not a "fun" DIY. Get them to include replacement in writing if there is a lazy or inoperative solenoid.
The trans cond./history (warrantee?) and if you like the color combo might be worth a few bucks.to you.
11-11-12, 04:45 PM
#18
I read your latest choice of a 2001 AWD. I would be cautious of this year unless its a 06/01 production date or later. Trust me it is difficult to diagnose a transmission that is on the way out and the current ok $$$$ deal you are getting will be completely negated by the need to replace/rebuild one of these transmissions that also runs in the $$$$ range.
I would recommend sticking to a 02 or 03 model. However I did some recent craigslists checks down here in Atl. there surely doesn't seem to be very many in that year range available, plenty of 98-01's though! Good Luck!
11-12-12, 11:39 AM
#19
Of the earlier models that had the the less developed design, many were well maintained and run strong or had a trans failure replaced (hopefully updated rebuild or replace... my '99 was in '04) already. If you find an earlier model you like, just don't get one that needs replacing without a value considering the cost; I've seen reports on forums of people paying $4000 (I don't know how realistic that number is in your area; I think it could bend considerably based on competition and if the vehicle can be driven off or not).
Happy hunting!
P.S. That's a great tip about the production date * 6/01 * for the models with the newer designed transmissions from the factory!
11-12-12, 02:13 PM
#20
Lexus Test Driver
I don't believe there was an '03, just like there was no '98 model year when they were marketed starting in January '98. I thought '03's were called '04's and were the first run of the next gen, making the '02's or '05's and later the safest bet. I think that's what you are getting at.
Of the earlier models that had the the less developed design, many were well maintained and run strong or had a trans failure replaced (hopefully updated rebuild or replace... my '99 was in '04) already. If you find an earlier model you like, just don't get one that needs replacing without a value considering the cost; I've seen reports on forums of people paying $4000 (I don't know how realistic that number is in your area; I think it could bend considerably based on competition and if the vehicle can be driven off or not).
Happy hunting!
P.S. That's a great tip about the production date * 6/01 * for the models with the newer designed transmissions from the factory!
Of the earlier models that had the the less developed design, many were well maintained and run strong or had a trans failure replaced (hopefully updated rebuild or replace... my '99 was in '04) already. If you find an earlier model you like, just don't get one that needs replacing without a value considering the cost; I've seen reports on forums of people paying $4000 (I don't know how realistic that number is in your area; I think it could bend considerably based on competition and if the vehicle can be driven off or not).
Happy hunting!
P.S. That's a great tip about the production date * 6/01 * for the models with the newer designed transmissions from the factory!
I honestly am not concerned about the transmission, it will last a long time with proper maint. My uncle has almost 400k miles on his original transmission on his 99' RX AWD. I have 190k miles on my original tranny.
I too would go with an 01' or newer but for different reasons. For example, from 01' on VSC is standard and navigation started that year. They also added cup holders on the rear seat, and a few others things.
11-12-12, 05:12 PM
#21
You guys are GREAT with the help and responses. I really appreciate it. Ok, this just in...then its decision time. 3 options:
1) buy the RX as-is, install a B&M tranny cooler, do periodic tranny fluid changes with Amsoil ATF and hope for the best.
2) buy the RX and buy an outside extended warranty (a top rated warranty company; does work with Kelly Blue Book and Carfax) that covers all powertrain and a long list of other major items. Coverage is for 5 years or 100k miles but the car must be under 100k before coverage is bought. It is $2,100 and can be paid interest free over 18 mos. A $100 deductible applies.
3) look for another RX.
We really like this one though.
1) buy the RX as-is, install a B&M tranny cooler, do periodic tranny fluid changes with Amsoil ATF and hope for the best.
2) buy the RX and buy an outside extended warranty (a top rated warranty company; does work with Kelly Blue Book and Carfax) that covers all powertrain and a long list of other major items. Coverage is for 5 years or 100k miles but the car must be under 100k before coverage is bought. It is $2,100 and can be paid interest free over 18 mos. A $100 deductible applies.
3) look for another RX.
We really like this one though.
11-12-12, 06:10 PM
#22
You guys are GREAT with the help and responses. I really appreciate it. Ok, this just in...then its decision time. 3 options:
1) buy the RX as-is, install a B&M tranny cooler, do periodic tranny fluid changes with Amsoil ATF and hope for the best.
2) buy the RX and buy an outside extended warranty (a top rated warranty company; does work with Kelly Blue Book and Carfax) that covers all powertrain and a long list of other major items. Coverage is for 5 years or 100k miles but the car must be under 100k before coverage is bought. It is $2,100 and can be paid interest free over 18 mos. A $100 deductible applies.
3) look for another RX.
We really like this one though.
1) buy the RX as-is, install a B&M tranny cooler, do periodic tranny fluid changes with Amsoil ATF and hope for the best.
2) buy the RX and buy an outside extended warranty (a top rated warranty company; does work with Kelly Blue Book and Carfax) that covers all powertrain and a long list of other major items. Coverage is for 5 years or 100k miles but the car must be under 100k before coverage is bought. It is $2,100 and can be paid interest free over 18 mos. A $100 deductible applies.
3) look for another RX.
We really like this one though.
11-17-12, 06:19 PM
#24
We picked it up today and we love it! She drives great! I'll post pics up when I can, maybe in a couple of days. I want to detail her better, my way. 
I have a Christening to go to tomorrow so I can't hook her up just yet...perhaps Wednesday when i'm off. Thanks guys for your comments and advice. I'm sure these RX forums will be just as helpful as my GS forums that i've belonged to for so many years. Cheers!
I have a Christening to go to tomorrow so I can't hook her up just yet...perhaps Wednesday when i'm off. Thanks guys for your comments and advice. I'm sure these RX forums will be just as helpful as my GS forums that i've belonged to for so many years. Cheers!
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