How Long Do GS 430’s Last?
Pole Position
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 2,088
Likes: 188
From: Brooklyn
AMEN TO THAT! My thoughts exactly. Why bother with a crappy new car that costs companies like $200 to build when they sell it for 25,000 and its all plastic. It's no secret NOTHING is built like it used to be but the way lexus designed the LS and GS 2nd generation and of course the 1st gen is nothing short of amazing as far as reliability is concerned. I think they're plan was to have a car that still drives 20 years later because those same people who owned that car and who see it still driving will be brand loyal forever knowing they can own a Lexus that will last almost forever. The proof is in the pudding. What old cars do you see driving around besides these? Not many I recon...
I believe this is one of the only cars you can buy for around 5,000 and have it last over 10 years because like the other guy said they are already fully depreciated basically so it's a steal for anyone who picks up a clean one at that point.
I believe this is one of the only cars you can buy for around 5,000 and have it last over 10 years because like the other guy said they are already fully depreciated basically so it's a steal for anyone who picks up a clean one at that point.
Not to knock on other cars but... I honestly don't get why people spend money and take out loans on certain new cars. I picked up a '99 LS400 with only 134k miles on it for $5100. It's a cream puff, interior 9.99/10, exterior only has a few minor dings. I would take the LS or my '01 GS430 with 165k miles over a lot of these new cars that will cost you around 25k+.
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 1,242
Likes: 24
From: IL
If I decide to get another car, or replace my GS, it will be with an LS400 most likely. Just can't knock em....
Can't justify having a car I don't drive daily, but I would love to have an LS around....
Can't justify having a car I don't drive daily, but I would love to have an LS around....
Pole Position
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 2,088
Likes: 188
From: Brooklyn
A clean LS would literally last FORVEER. Even longer then a gs because the suspension flaws the GS has the LS doesn't. The LS (I think 1st gen) was voted most reliable car ever made by JD Power! That's saying something! I found a super clean one 2000 with 140k miles black on black super clean for $5,500 at an auction 2 years ago and I let it go. Still til this day I regret it I just didn't need another car so I let it pass. Someone got lucky...
A clean LS would literally last FORVEER. Even longer then a gs because the suspension flaws the GS has the LS doesn't. The LS (I think 1st gen) was voted most reliable car ever made by JD Power! That's saying something! I found a super clean one 2000 with 140k miles black on black super clean for $5,500 at an auction 2 years ago and I let it go. Still til this day I regret it I just didn't need another car so I let it pass. Someone got lucky...
Pole Position
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 2,088
Likes: 188
From: Brooklyn
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 1,224
Likes: 57
From: CA
The LS400 and the 2GS have a reputation for reliability and longetivity that is absolutely unmatched.
I will say that one weak point of the 2GS is the suspension (ball-joints, tie rods, knuckle bushings, front lower control arms). But if you are willing to replace those once every 100K or so, these cars will last forever.
Also, lots of people will tell you to replace the timing belt every 90K per dealer recommendation, but I've never heard of a 01-05 2GS break one. I've heard of many 200K+ examples with the stock belt too.
I will say that one weak point of the 2GS is the suspension (ball-joints, tie rods, knuckle bushings, front lower control arms). But if you are willing to replace those once every 100K or so, these cars will last forever.
Also, lots of people will tell you to replace the timing belt every 90K per dealer recommendation, but I've never heard of a 01-05 2GS break one. I've heard of many 200K+ examples with the stock belt too.
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 1,242
Likes: 24
From: IL
Pole Position
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 2,088
Likes: 188
From: Brooklyn