Hello,

I'm new to the forum and my wife has a Lexus GX 470 and I'm considering purchasing a 2008 ES 350 (non certified). The car has 54,000 miles. It is from a small dealer and I had it inspected by a non Lexus mechanic (nearest dealer was too far to have it inspected per dealer).

The mechanic said the engine valve cover gasket needs to be replaced because their is a minor oil leak. The cost would be about $400 (includes parts and labor). I called Lexus and it should be covered in the cars warranty (engine and transmission warrantied to 70k miles or 6 years).

The other items would be regular maintenance such as replacing cabin filter, engine air filter, replacing coolant and power steering fluids. The car is also missing an extra key but I will negotiate down the price to pay for another one. The mech said he liked it other than that issue.

The price is about $21k. The hesitation I am having is; My regular mechanic said engine valve cover gaskets usually go out between 80k-100k miles and this one has 54k miles on it which is quite a bit sooner than normal. Everyone is telling me to get a car that has no existing issues because it might be a sign to come there will be other issues sooner or later (basically the car might be a lemon).

I was going to have the car inspected by Lexus (similar inspection to when they certify cars) when they fix the eng valve cover gasket. Do you guys think it is an okay buy after they fix it or should I follow everyones advice on getting a car that never had issues so far since its not that old.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

Is there any warranty from the selling dealer? I would negotiate for the dealer to fix it, do the required maintenance and procure you the extra key fob for the $21,000. If you go that route, request the paperwork on the repair and all services rendered.

 

+1! That is EXACTLY what you should do--have the selling dealer do everything before you buy it and provide you with the receipts.