Lukas99GS

I'm looking at buying a new car come spring/summer this year, and I love the look of the 3GS, I currently own a 1999 GS300 with 212k on it and literally nothing has ever broke on it in the 2 years and 50k I've had it, I want something that Will be just as reliable, now I know there's multiple setups of the 3GS (300,350,430,460,450h) which one is the most reliable and longest lasting? I've been reading on this forum and everyone says to stay away from the 06 GS300s, I'm curious why? In my craigslist browsing I've seen far more 06 300s with over 150 even 200k than any other 3GS, so they can't be that bad can they? I can likely only afford an 06 or 07 and the 300s seem to be cheapest but I have seen a couple 06 430s in my price range as well, what do I need to look out for and are these as long lasting as older Lexus models? It's between this or an 01-06 LS430 or possibly 2nd gen Gs430, thanks for any info guys.

texbanc

After putting 180k on my 01GS 430 and now having 75k on my 09 GS460, I have to go with the V8. Both cars have been great and no problems. I will say that my Lexus dealership has always said the 430 engine is bulletproof and the mechanics love it. Hard to go wrong.

Tex

sam12345

iTrader: (1)

I agree. This same engine (the 430) has been made since 1998 Well in 98 it was a 400 but essentially the same. I got 206k On mine and it still runs perfect. Even better engine, but less powerfull, is the 4 liter v8 in my 92 ls400.

The 2006 gs300 was the first year with direct injection so has many issues like a lot of "firsts" do. Some need engine rebuilds every 100k or so. So the risk is high. Search "gs300 burning oil"

My car burn 1/4 court every 10k miles even at 206k.

gridlock13

iTrader: (1)

stay away from the GS300s. the engine will not last. if you need AWD go with a GS350.

rominl

iTrader: (4)

gs430, hands down

TRD_Power

Can't go wrong with the GS430, but if you want to spend a little more, the 460's have been pretty much bulletproof, plus you get more power and gears

LoveThatV8

iTrader: (1)

I agree!

user 528962307

ten characters

LexLova

06 430 hands down +1 🙌🙌🙌🙌. Best Lexus ever

darinmg

Actually...the 2007 GS430 is the best ever :-)

TRD_Power

I'm averaging around 21 MPG in my 460, and that's with Seattle traffic and hills no matter where you drive So overall not TOO bad on gas. I'm even a bit of a leadfoot.

gr8fulRed

that sounds pretty dang good for a v8, city driving and hills !! Just curious...are you relying on the car's computer for this MPG average...or are you calculating it yourself, by diving your actual miles into your total gallons of fuel?? Seems (in OTHER vehicles) in the past...my calculations were off from what my car's computer came up with.

TRD_Power

I calculated it myself a few different times, and every time I did, it was only a 1-3 MPG difference, positive or negative. Only using the gauge on the car now.

nuck

I think most complaints on the 350 and 430 relate to common body components, electronics etc so the motor choice doesn't determine reliability. The Hybrid is a wild card (to me at least) because it has all the same parts at risk as a gas engine car, plus the electric bits so common sense says it is likely to be somewhat more costly to own, in addition to eventual replacement of the battery pack. @ 8yrs+
I only just bought my 350 but the Toyota 6 cylinder is one of the reasons I chose it. If you check out the 3rd Gen fix it threads you will see some common issues and the costs attached. They should be as reliable as any LS cars in the same price range but newer = more gadgets.

TRD_Power

Just to follow back up on yesterday's question, here's a pic from last night, after city and freeway driving. I haven't calculated it since the first few times, but I'd imagine it's still pretty much spot on.