xfea

Hey there.

Existing (and former LS 400) Lexus owner looking to get an SC 430.

I know nothing about them!

I do know the second generation car was produced 2002-2010.

What should I be looking for?

Any year to stay away from?

What are the changes over the year?

What year(s) should I focus on with a $25K budget?

Thanking all you ahead of time.


OK - opinion on this?

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/ctd/1812140654.html

VVTiBob

The first set of major revisions to the car came in 2006, then in 2008, 9 and 10 which is the already announce end of the line for the SC430 model. But even with those revision the "electronics" are not up to par with the competition.

02-05 models were, for all intents and purposes are the same. But there were some "specialty vehicles". They were called the Pebble Beach Editions or the 100 Neiman Marcus cars. Special colors, variations on the interiors, badging, floor mats and few odds and ends.

In 2006 the front end received a minor face lift and the tail end got some LED brake lamps. Lexus also enhanced the auto transmission to a six speed from five but gave up a few ponies.

Regarding your budget, I'd suggest a looking at a few sites: CarMax can be tailored to geographic area and car model, i.e. year make model etc. Autotrader ...the same and maybe the best of all, Lexus CPO where you can seach by model and state...

Right now, depending greatly on mileage and condition looks like your 25K put you in the 2004 model range.... again it really depends on the usual suspects, condition, mileage, home state, i.e. environment etc etc.... Good luck with your search.

daryltrinh

iTrader: (1)

If you can negotiate the seller to $25k or close for the car in the ad,
I'd say it's a great deal, assuming that it's in great condition and well maintained.

I bought a 52k, 2003, black on black for $22k OTD and I thought I slightly overpaid.

xfea

KBB for private party says $31K . . . do these typically sell for less?
I know that the GS typically can sell for more.

del3180

I never go by KBB. I go by market value.
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/search...=1277930085482
Based on the SC430's in my area, I'd say an offer of 26,000 is reasonable considering the year, mileage, and the seller is not offering a warranty.

IMO you should look at the 2006 model as it has the newer LED taillights and updated headlights.

BTW, did anyone notice the last picture in the ad is of a LS460 trunk?

Cliff1F2

I noticed something looked weird about it, it just didn't register...good call!

VVTiBob

Great catch on the trunk photo... excellent observation skills.... also makes you wonder what else isn't right

xfea

Looks like he's a dealer that specializes in newish Lexus - maybe an innocent mistake...

xfea

BTW also - thanks for the feedback re: upgrades in 06 -
What are the weak points?

Front end?
Tranny?
Folding top?

I know both my LS and GS had their own different front suspension issues.

del3180

New in 2006:
Led taillights
Updated front fascia (bumper and headlights)
New 5 spoke alloys
6 speed automatic with sequential shifting (slightly better mpg)
Adaptive Front Lighting System (illuminates the general direction you're turning into)
http://www.automotive.com/2006/12/le...ews/index.html

VVTiBob

Run flat tires
Useless rear seat area
Poor quality door speakers (woofers)
Proprietary electronics and form factors that are not very upgradeable without extreme measures
A useless trunk when the top is down, especially if you have a spare tire.
Trunk lid pistons/struts can also be problematic so make sure you open both the lid and hood.


But mechanically a very sound and well engineer car as a luxury roadster.

xfea

Run flat tires?

Aren't those supposed to be expensive and give a harsh ride?

del3180

Not trying to provoke an argument/debate But take the SC430 for what it is, a luxury convertible that will make you smile everyday.

I used to own a MKIV Supra TT and 996 Carrera. Both cars had the same draw backs as the SC430, almost useless trunk space and rear seats made for 5 year olds. But hey, they're not the family wagon.

Speaking of sound systems, the Carrera's stereo was terrible, sounded like I was driving in a Corolla.

del3180

Yes, that is why most SC430 owners, like myself, get them changed out ASAP for normal tires. It's a night and day difference. The draw back is that you'll have to look for a spare tire as the SC430's don't come with one.

KaiserSea1

02-04 handmade, European leathers and woods. 05+ materials sourced from China in a robotic automated plant. No known quality difference. I kind of like the idea of owning things built by people who cared about what they were building. Just a little sentimental on my part.