Hello fellow CL members! After a brief hiatus from the Lexus world due to an accident last year, I'm back into a GS. I had an 03 black on black Sport Design, but I have recently acquired an 03 GS430. This is going to be my build thread, albeit very slow. I've got to put family priorities over my CRYSYS, but I'll post updates as I go along. Thanks in advance for all your input and support as I begin my Lexus love affair. I picked it up from a guy in Raleigh, NC 2 weeks ago after finding it on CarGurus. I negotiated him down from $3400 to $2900, and the car seems to be in good shape overall with about 188K miles at purchase.

It needs a little work (which I expected for a 16 yr old car), but the seller was polite enough to pay for a used car inspection, so I had an idea of what I was getting prior to me making the 4 hr drive. Since bringing her home, I've already changed the oil, and had timing belt and waterpump replaced.

This is where I'm starting from.

 

Here's a couple of pics of my new mistress​​​​​​​

 

Looks really clean and not a very common color. I'd say that's a lot of car for $2,900. Based on the report looks like you have a little bit of work to get it lined out just right. Oh and I see it's even rear wheel drive.

 

I like the color a lot, it stands out in a good way. I'm looking forward to a nice day that I can get outside to give it a good wax and buff to bring back some of the luster. The front bumper has some curb rash, but nothing too terrible, I can probably take some Krylon to it to hide the scuffs.

As it pertains to my inspection list. I've already replaced the windshield and wiper blades. I put it on the lift at work to give it a more thorough inspection. Valve cover gaskets are leaking a little, along with lower oil pan. Ball joints seem to be in good shape, but all the rubber bushings are showing their age. I plan to replace them all in one shot so I don't have to spend a bunch of time on the alignment rack. Interior has shows age, but no rips or tears in any of the seats. I'll get around to replacing the rear sub eventually. I'm pleased overall, and the biggest bonus is NO CAR PAYMENT! Stay tuned for more updates!

 

Looks nice! Any plans/goals for it after the general maintenance/repairs?

 

Ideally, I would like to build it for twins, my own GSF within the next 5 years. I know it’s gonna take a lot of time and money, but in the end I believe I will be satisfied. The GS is a good platform for me because of the vast aftermarket support, the luxury amenities, Toyota reliability, and 4 doors for the family.

 

The law of mo-traction!
255/35 19 19x9.5 +35 square setup

 

LS brakes up front w/ slotted rotors

 

I know those brakes aren't small but they look tiny in those wheels