I'm looking at a 98 GS400 with 175k miles, and decent maintenance records, for $6k.

Obviously, every car is different, and maintenance alone doesn't determine lifespan, but what's a safe bet on how many miles this car has before it starts being a money pit?

Also, is it true that maintenance on GS's is cheap for a lexus because they share Toyota parts?

 

The motor on that car will last as long you keep it maintained and do all preventative maintenance like timing belt and water pump. In general a GS300 is cheaper to work on as the 2JZ is easier to work on. But the 1UZ in the GS/LS 400 models are astoundingly sound motors overall. If it has good history I'd definitely pick it up. 400s are much less in number than 300s so finding one in good shape is a good find. I'd haggle on the price a little though. GL

 

I got my 2000 gs400 for 5800 after some haggling. Needed some work but nothing that wasn't manageable. I would try to haggle a bit, and make sure you take it somewhere for a pre-purchase inspection.

To the maintenance question: from what I have learned you are going to pay more for Lexus parts rather than Toyota parts. You gotta pay to play

 

Fyi if you have a Sears auto center in your area they can fully inspect the car for free have the guy there so whatever they find can be used as a point to lower price

 

Any car with that many miles will be a money pit, to some extent. However as long as it was taken care of, the major parts(engine, tranny, rear axle,) are solid and will last you forever. Just be aware that these cars at this age need lots of suspension work and front end work if nothing has been replaced.

 

I'm at 344k now on my GS400. Once you have done all the regular maintenance required. It just becomes little things maybe 1k a year with services and parts done a the dealer.

CEO