Update - Keeping the RX300.

 

167 kms is not a lot by any means for an 11 year old Lexus. So if thats what your worried about then it shouldnt be too much of a concern, these cars are built to last and be reliable.
On the other hand, if its problems with the nature of the RX300 itself (which it sounds what you're worried about), then I'd consider returning it.
If you decide to keep it DONT go to a Lexus dealership because they'll rip you off huge, everyone (well almost everyone) knows that. Simply find a shop that your comfortable with to do your maintenance and repair work. This forum helps a lot when your car develops problems. USE the forums SEARCH feature first and its almost certain someone has had the same problem you're having, and theres a thread about it with how to fix it cheaply yourself, or how to minimize your costs to have it fixed.

Either way, congrats on your purchase and welcome to CL!

 

Thanks for the feedback, I really really like the vehicle and the condition is excellent, no complaints. It is correct that I have much second thoughts about the troubles that goes with the model of the vehicle but then that could happen with most vehicles even the "non-lemon".

L.

 

if you decide that you do not want to service your vehicle at a lexus dealership, just make sure that the parts used for your vehicle are genuine... ask your lexus dealership what the maintenance schedule for your vehicle is, and if they could print off a copy for you...

the RX' aren't problematic unless they're either neglected, or abused... i know people with well over 300k on their RX without having any major problems...

 

if your're looking for an independent mechanic to service your RX, you could try speed syndicate. see link below for details. if memory serves me right, they are toyota trained mechanics....

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/can...employees.html

 

Thanks for the reply, it's very helpful to get guided to the right mechanics, otherwise I would just be googling and hoping for the best. Out of curiosity, how much is the markup for a service done at the dealer vs. independent mechanic?

 

dealers have more overhead and therefore, their labour rates are higher...

independant shops may have skilled technicians, but they lack the parts source, up to date knowledge, and information tools available to the dealership.

not dissing any shops... feel free to get your maintenance and repairs done at an independant garage... but just make sure they use genuine parts... contrary to popular belief, it makes a big difference...

 

I agree but we arent talking about a new hybrid, its a 99 rx I would feel confident that most shops would have the know how and the tools required to get the job done. Maybe go to a shop that specializes in imports.

 

i'm very sure that most independant garages are tooled to work on a 10 year old vehicle... but just make sure they use genuine parts...

things that i would ONLY use genuine...
oil filters - some may disagree.. whatever
transmission oil
all electrical sensors and switches
all emission control items
all gaskets and seals
all belts and hoses

things i would not hesitate to use aftermarket/performance/jobber on...
engine oil - make sure it's not re-refined oil
gear oil (rear diff)
brake pads - performance only
brake rotors
tires
wheel bearings
CV boots
light bulbs
water pump - make sure it's made in japan
timing belt tensioner/idler bearings - make sure it's made in japan

 

Thanks - I did go to the dealer to get it's first check up, routine oil change was about $125. On the todo list Timing Belt ($600) and Tires ($900).

Any recommendations for good all season tires?

 

michelin latitude tour... best bang for the buck... lasts a hella long time, very low rolling resistance, and pretty damn good traction...