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Suspension will be shot at 150k. I'd replace the shocks and struts and steering rack, then you will have a tight like new feeling to the ride. Upgrade the brakes with something that stops better than factory such as the "power stops" and you can use rims and tires from a ES350 model for more modern look and better traction.
There might be some other cosmetics you need to replace but the engine will be fine for 300-400k with regular oil changes. There is someone that got 1 Million miles out of it without a rebuild, but that is not likely. 200k is not a large number for these engines....
wow!! A million miles!! I’d wished to get half of that would be awesome!!
I’m starting with getting the oil leak fixed and a wheel alignment since the person I bought it from says he drove it for 2 years and wore out the tires by not getting it fixed. He put new tires on it (plus new battery, new alternator and new radiator) after it sat in his friend’s lot for 5 months before he decided to sell it. The oil in it looked good and clear like it was just changed. I topped it off and got a good puddle underneath in just a few hours.
The seats are roached and the previous owner smoked in the car too. Some smaller bodywork needs to be done (front fender and side in front of the door hinge on driver’s side). I ordered replacement cup holders. When these tires go, I’d consider the upgrade you mentioned. Same with brakes. It’ll be one thing at a time over years since this is a daily driver. If I get another daily driver in another 3 years I can alternate working on the cars and driving them.
I found front seats out of 2007-2014 ES350 ( same mounting points and connectors ) for $250 each, they are much more supportive and look more solid and higher quality.
The rear seat out of the same is $400-$450, they look almost brand new. I found a company that has a carpet replacement for $150 and factory floor mats for $149. So your interior can look brand new for around $1000..
On the aging car the tie rod ends, ball joints, suspension and steering rack will nag you, it literally feels brand new when you replace all this gear, plus you can upgrade your spring and shocks to better than factory.
03 ES300 here. 280K miles on engine and trans. Just put some OE 130K mile struts on mine only because mine were leaking and all aftermarket brands are horrible for these cars, but they still felt fine. It rides like new still. Replaced cats, control arms, axles, evap canister, rear struts at 270K miles. Trans and engine are in great condition and still run like new. No joke. I change my oil every 3000 and always have. This car has been in my family since it was brand new, so it’s been well taken care of and garaged it’s whole life. The difference that makes is insane
I decided to keep it, so i put some new lenses on the headlights and did some cosmetic things to make it more appealing to me. Also replaced the lower leather seats up front and installed a stock nav unit. She’s in great shape for the mileage.
04-30-24, 11:29 AM
