Ladies and Gentlemen:

Help I am an avid Lexus 2nd Gen GS 4 fan. I found one that I am interested in purchasing it is a 2001 GS 430 with 194k. I know the miles are ridiculous, but I can buy it from a wholesale lot for $9500. The car looks very good, but the wholesale lot will not let me take the car to the dealer to have it checked out. He has offered a 30 day warranty instead. I owned a 99 GS 4 and I am aware of the timing belt needing to be changed, but do you guys think it is worth the investment. I would like to keep this car forever after purchasing it!

 

they wont let you take it to a mechanic? I understand its a wholesale lot, but I wouldnt do it.

you can spend a few more bucks for less miles and just as nice.

 

If you sign up for CarFax they offer an inspection service for $99. An ASE mechanic will come to the car and check it and even take it for a road test.

You can't access the service until you sign up for a CarFax report though.

Might be worht it in this case .........

DaveC

 

If it were me, without an inspection I would instead find one for $15,000 and 100k miles that you CAN inspect. It may cost you less in the long run.

I just bought one off ebay from a dealer in good shape, but needed control arms, front struts, tune up, timing belt, tires, all fluids flushed etc....... $2500 ..... and you may need work on top of that.

 

wow, if I really wanted the car, I guess thats the route I would go... good info!

 

www.carchex.com

 

If it was up to me...i would pass on it. Im pretty sure you can find a better deal with a little more bucks to get a lower miliage gs AND you can inspect it. It will definately save you money in the long run.

 

Although the mileage is really high, $9500 sounds like a fair price. In 30 days you could take it to your mechanic have it inspected and then have him repair eveything under his warranty. Not sure exactly what he is covering on this warranty but it's a thought.

 

I agree, if he covers everything and signs an agreements you can deffinatelly check it out. Try to get a mechanic friend or someone to go with you before you do anything.

 

A warranty under these circumstances may be suspect. Any way to talk to others who have purchased from this "dealer"? And, remember it may be like civil court actions - easier to get a judgement in your favor than to actually collect. One can't be encouraged by the refusal of an inspection.