dstormz

My brother decided to get a '92 Lexus ES 300 for me from this mechanic shop. It has 130,000 miles on it with the transmission already rebuilt.

Anyhow, when I test drove it, the acceleration seemed weak. I had to wait a few seconds for it to accelerate after I stepped on the gas peddle.

Is this situation normal or because the car is showing its' age?

Lexusfreak

How did the transmission shift feel? As it could be a number of things tranny might not even be the problem. What kind of service has the car had as far as tune up's? and major maintenance is concerned?

dstormz

The transmission shifts really smooth.

Moreover, regarding the history of the car, I'm clueless on that one
I didn't want to second guest my brother's generosity.

I've never driven an ES 300 before, so sorry if this question sounds stupid.

Lexusfreak

Not stupid at all my friend, just trying to get a bit of history on the car. If the transmission is shifting smoothly as you say (not slamming or banging as it goes thru the gears or a significant delay in the upshifts), then perhaps were dealing with another issue not related to the transmission. You might want to contact Lexus head office (they have a toll free 1-800 #) and give them your VIN number to see what is on file for any warranty work or service that has been done. All that might be needed is a major tune up (filters replaced), injector cleaning, timing belt might need changing as well. A good run on the highway with premium gas to clean things out kind of thing. Are you getting any lights on your dash board that saying there is a problem with a specific item? Do you have or know of a good reliable mechanic? I know the Lexus dealers are expensive especially for labour. I'd try the most common things first (also the least expensive) and see what kind of improvement (if any) is noticed. Welcome to the club by the way Post some pics of your new ride when you can.

mmarshall

You say you have slow acceleration. While most Lexus engines are not normally worn out at 130K with good care, it can happen. Check for engine wear by getting the engine FULLY WARM on a dry day, slowing down to about 5 MPH or so, check for traffic, and then accelerate hard and check the mirror behind you while accelerating. If you see white or bluish-white smoke, you are burning oil from worn-out piston rings or valves. If you don't have the engine fully warm on a dry day, you will get steam from the exhaust water vapor which can be confused with smoke. If the engine is worn, that can explain your poor power level....and it will neccessate a partial or complete engine overhaul.
Good luck.