Hey there! First time poster. Spent a ton of time on a similar forum for first gen RX7, but new to Lexus.

Found a 2001 GS 300 that I am going to take a look at and possibly buy. Are there particular things I should check, look or listen for on the walk around or test drive? 100k California car, no modifications, Carfax has no flags. Looking to buy it for my son as a daily driver, as waaaaaay safer than his RX7 which scares the bejesus out of me.

Feel free to direct me to a sticky or FAQ. Tried a search, and looks like you guys share the same platform as the RX7Club forum… and with it the same challenging search function!

 

Check the suspension. Mainly balljoints, tie rod ends and lower control arm bushings. Also make sure the power door locks aren’t working. None of these issues are a deal breaker but you would need to negotiate for the repairs

 

Is there any required maintenance that I should check has been done, ie timing belt changed at a certain mileage?

 

Timing belt and water pump should be done at about 100k but I went way over and was fine. I’d probably be more concerned about the belts and age. Spark plugs are usually done around 100k and check for leaking valve covers.

 

At 100k miles should be pretty solid. Door lock actuators as has been mentioned, along with the electric servo/actuators that control the climate control functions usually last 200k miles worth of life, but check them by changing all modes and temperatures (passenger and driver separately) and ensuring all functions and temperatures are as advertised on the dash screen. You'll want to check the temperature with the car running to ensure heat and cool is working correctly. But also do the same check with the engine off and listen for any clicking/rattling from behind the dash when you are NOT making adjustments to the temp or function/mode. A noise from the dash area if a tell-tale sign of a failing actuator. They can be replaced but they're a pain and about $200 give or take for each unit if you want to go with Lexus. Balljoints, if original, are usually good for 150k miles if the car isn't lowered or otherwise abused (mine went 200k with no signs of failure), but to be proactive, have this on the to-do list for soon after you buy the car, as it's a safety issue. But basically the car should operate like new, so go through every system on the car and verify operability. There should be no error-based dashlights illuminated.