So after getting over my turbo dreams/desires & finally finding the 3rd Gen FAQ & figuring out what is what between the models, the 2007 GS350 AWD is what I want. Triple black of course

I picked this model because I wanted the highest HP I could get in a stock model & I want a car with AWD. The 2007 350 was the first model it was offered in.

What about the engine, being the first year of the new 3.5L V6, have there been a lot of problems with them over the last few years? I know the 2nd Gen engine was rock solid & hoping the 3rd Gen 3.5L is also just as rock solid...

Hoping with my fingers crossed that this model hasn't had many issues. I really want to get the 3rd Gen body style for the best price with the most HP I can in a stock model, so it seems that 2007 is the year for me.

Anything else I should take into consideration for a 2007 GS350 AWD?

Thanks.

 

Just what I've read in my research about the AWD....if you plan to lower it at all, you'll have to be willing to deal with vibrations and wobbles. I personally wouldn't get the AWD unless I really needed it.
I have the 07 GS430 RWD and LOVE it. The torque and feel of the V8 is awesome. So smooth.

 

What darin said.... wobble problems up the heezy if you ever wanna lower. GL

 

I live in Cleveland, Ohio so AWD is needed lol. I'd like to get a Jeep Cherokee 4x4 for winter, but I still need to rely on this to go if I need it to so AWD is a must for me.

I don't really plan on lowering it, i guess it does make it look cooler, but honestly the roads are so ****ty up here it's just not a good idea as it is.

I was thinking rim size of 18-20" depending on what this car can handle without modification.

So the engine is tight as a whistle and rock solid?

Nothing else to worry about I can rest assured the engine of the 2007 350 I buy will be good to 250k + miles? (probably going to end up with one with 100k on it for around 15k)

No transmission issues either?

Is there any way to increase the HP via a chip or air intakes or anything without getting into a serious rebuild/mod job?

 

I don't think asking about reliability to 250K and then asking about a chip to enhance performance should go together in the same post. Usually you can have one or the other...not both.

 

Well reliability to 250k + is much much more important to me, I won't consider adding a chip then.

Just out of curiosity how much more HP can a chip add and how much are the chips & install/program usually?

 

You are not going to chip a Lexus man, how old are you out of curiosity? Also, putting 19s or 20s on a stock gs350 is going to look ridiculous.

 

do not add a chip. spend your money on good fluids for your vehicle and maintenance related items. Also change the water pump as soon as you get it.

 

Ok good advice from you guys, I won't consider adding a chip then. I just wanted to get the most HP I could. I'll be happy with the 303hp in the 350's I only have 225 right now in my 01' Acura TL.

And I'm 31 & never really wanted to or considered chipping or supping up any of my previous vehicles so I'm a newb, but I figure since the GS series is on the sporty side it was worth exploring. Now I know it's not worth it for me.

19-20" rims - I keep seeing all of these 3rd Gen's with these size rims & keep forgetting most of you guys have it lowered. Since I want the AWD model & it's already been advised that it's not good to do on the AWD, plus the fact that Ohio streets are terrible, lowering isn't really an option for me. So I do want to get some really nice after market rims, I will make sure they are sized appropriately for the stock car to keep it looking classy.

Still undecided if I want to go all blacked out rims for the triple black 350 or get chrome rims. I've always loved the look of nice chrome rims, but for some reason really considering an all blacked-out 350.

 

ah excuses lol

philly streets are horrible as well and it never stopped me from lowering any of my cars. another member rides around here all day long slammed. gotta pay to play!

 

lol that's lowww!!

Have you had any issues with your AWD & lowering it that much?

 

ha your asking the right person for that question. long story short, yes....

 

Anyone know any particular recalls/problems I should be concerned about with the 2007 350?

Wasn't there a valve that needed replaced? I assume all cars had this done since it was under warranty, but I still want to make sure I pick a car with any recalls already fixed.

 

Ahh here it is I think in this article:

"The second recall includes Lexus IS 350, IS 350C and GS 350 vehicles made between 2006 and 2011. These cars can also stop while on the road, this time due to bolts in the variable valve timing control device coming loose. "

http://money.cnn.com/2013/09/04/auto...html?iid=HP_LN

So this recall was just announced in the last month or two right? This is a current issue that needs addressed then before I should consider buying a 2007 350?