GS - 3rd Gen (2006-2011) Discussion about the 2006+ model GS300, GS350, GS430, GS450H and GS460

Help a n00b before he buys his first GS...

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 05-22-16, 03:17 PM
  #1  
RavenII
Driver School Candidate
Thread Starter
 
RavenII's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2016
Location: IL
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default Help a n00b before he buys his first GS...

Hello All,

I'm trying to find out if whether or not it's worth buying a high milage 2008+ GS350. I'm looking at spending no more than $15K OTD. In my search I've found out that...
  1. DAMN these cars are hard to find...for that price and decent milage....which makes me want one even more.
  2. Japanese cars seem to be better suited for keeping a long time vs. BMW (which was my previous car)
  3. No one wants to sell them (compared to BMW)...which is a good thing I suppose.

What're some things to look out for when checking one out? Known oil leaks? Things that break commonly? Should high milage be avoided? I like keeping my cars for a LONG time. My 2000 Xterra currently has 205k miles an is on its last leg. Any input will be greatly appreciated!

https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/d...8199/overview/ This is the one I'm eyeing...

Last edited by RavenII; 05-22-16 at 04:28 PM.
Old 05-22-16, 04:58 PM
  #2  
Lukas99GS
Instructor
 
Lukas99GS's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: MN
Posts: 886
Likes: 0
Received 32 Likes on 23 Posts
Default

115k isn't really high for a Lexus, look over the records, I'd try and see if the transmission fluid has been changed. Other than some people experiencing oil burning there aren't many major issues with these cars. I'd try and find a 460 if you could though.
Old 05-22-16, 05:09 PM
  #3  
RavenII
Driver School Candidate
Thread Starter
 
RavenII's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2016
Location: IL
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default

That was actually among the lower milage ones that I found. There are others in the area, but none with the records this has. Supposedly the trans fluid was "checked" at 91,287 miles...I might actually go take a look at this one, the only thing it doesn't have that I would have liked is the ML audio, but to be honest, I'm going to swap it anyhow (car audio nut by nature)...Thanks for the response, I appreciate it.
Old 05-23-16, 10:25 AM
  #4  
luv2xl8
Driver School Candidate
 
luv2xl8's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: ny
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default

I have a clean 2006 gs430 listed on eBay.im asking $13k Obo

http://m.ebay.com/itm/112005340782
Old 05-23-16, 12:28 PM
  #5  
jollick
Racer
 
jollick's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: GA
Posts: 1,697
Received 175 Likes on 153 Posts
Default

Originally Posted by luv2xl8
I have a clean 2006 gs430 listed on eBay.im asking $13k Obo

http://m.ebay.com/itm/112005340782
That looks like a great deal! Good luck, you should have no trouble selling it.
Old 05-23-16, 12:34 PM
  #6  
Gotcha350
Lead Lap
 
Gotcha350's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: LA
Posts: 589
Received 14 Likes on 11 Posts
Default

Check to make sure the water pump isnt leaking. Also check suspension and brakes....other than that is a solid car...good luck finding the one you want.
Old 05-23-16, 06:07 PM
  #7  
luv2xl8
Driver School Candidate
 
luv2xl8's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: ny
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default

Originally Posted by jollick
That looks like a great deal! Good luck, you should have no trouble selling it.
Thank you! It's a solid car.
Old 05-25-16, 08:13 PM
  #8  
Steve2424
Driver
 
Steve2424's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2014
Location: New York
Posts: 189
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
Default

Ensure maintenance has been kept up on it as far as oil changes, recalls. Also make sure the maintenance interval aspecs have been accounted for -- plugs, hoses, belts. Inspect the water pump -- if you notice fluid residue on the bottom under it (should be a pinkish color I believe) then it needs replacing. Get that done before buying, or stay away completely.

At high mileage you're taking a crap shoot with the suspension as dealers will lubricate parts to give off the impression they are in good order. These cars have pretty strong reliable parts so worn axles/control arms/ struts are difficult to finger point as it is lol

Bought mine 2+ yrs ago -- $22.5K OTD -- fully loaded except rear sunshade with 45K miles on the ODO. It's been a dream since.
Old 05-27-16, 06:59 AM
  #9  
Lexxuss15
Driver School Candidate
 
Lexxuss15's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: Florida
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default

Originally Posted by Steve2424
Ensure maintenance has been kept up on it as far as oil changes, recalls. Also make sure the maintenance interval aspecs have been accounted for -- plugs, hoses, belts. Inspect the water pump -- if you notice fluid residue on the bottom under it (should be a pinkish color I believe) then it needs replacing. Get that done before buying, or stay away completely.

At high mileage you're taking a crap shoot with the suspension as dealers will lubricate parts to give off the impression they are in good order. These cars have pretty strong reliable parts so worn axles/control arms/ struts are difficult to finger point as it is lol

Bought mine 2+ yrs ago -- $22.5K OTD -- fully loaded except rear sunshade with 45K miles on the ODO. It's been a dream since.
What year did you get...im on the verge of getting an 09' with 58,000 miles for 19,991 OTD....think thats a good deal?
Old 05-27-16, 03:07 PM
  #10  
Steve2424
Driver
 
Steve2424's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2014
Location: New York
Posts: 189
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
Default

Originally Posted by Lexxuss15
What year did you get...im on the verge of getting an 09' with 58,000 miles for 19,991 OTD....think thats a good deal?
Should've mentioned that lol. 2008 GS350 awd.

What's the options on that one you're looking at?
Old 06-01-16, 01:42 AM
  #11  
Lexxuss15
Driver School Candidate
 
Lexxuss15's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: Florida
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default

Originally Posted by Steve2424
Should've mentioned that lol. 2008 GS350 awd.

What's the options on that one you're looking at?
Rear glass-imprinted FM diversity antenna|AM/FM stereo -inc: MP3 player, auto-reverse cassette, in-dash 6-disc CD changer, 134-watt amplifier, (10) speakers, cassette scan feature, digital signal processing, automatic sound levelizer (ASL), theft-deterrent design, electronic crossover network, auxiliary audio input|Bluetooth wireless telephone technology|Shark fin satellite antenna|AM/FM stereo -inc: auto-reverse cassette, in-dash 6-disc CD changer, 134-watt amplifier, (10) speakers, cassette scan feature, digital signal processing, automatic sound levelizer (ASL), theft-deterrent design, electronic crossover network, auxiliary audio input|Pwr moonroof -inc: 1-touch open/close|Integrated fog lamps|UV & infrared reducing tinted window glass|1-piece front/rear color-keyed bumpers|Color-keyed electrochromic heated mirrors -inc: pwr-retract, reverse tilt-down, puddle lamps, turn signals|HID headlamps -inc: auto-on/off, delay|Water repellant front door glass|17 x 7.5 aluminum alloy wheels|P225/50WR17 summer tires|Compact spare tire|Variable intermittent windshield wipers w/mist cycle|LED rear combination lights|Color-keyed electrochromic pwr heated mirrors w/memory -inc: pwr-folding, reverse tilt-down, puddle lamps, turn signals|Chrome surround on grille|Pwr moonroof -inc: 1-touch open/close, sliding sunshade|Digital quartz clock|10-way pwr heated front bucket seats -inc: lumbar support, 3-position memory, adjustable headrests|Electrochromic rearview mirror -inc: compass, HomeLink programmable garage door opener|Wood & leather-trimmed shift ****|Front/rear reading lamps|Integrated retractable coat hooks|Rear A/C vents on back of center console|Dual front/rear assist grips|Pwr trunk closer|Pwr windows -inc: 1-touch up/down, jam protection|Visors w/illuminated vanity mirrors|Pwr door locks -inc: anti-lockout feature, driver door 2-turn unlock|Illuminated entry -inc: puddle lamps, interior lights, engine start button ring|Rear seat -inc: trunk pass-through, fold-down center armrest, adjustable headrests|Digital odometer w/twin trip meters|Auxiliary pwr outlet|Cruise control|7 multi-info touch-screen|Wood & leather-trimmed pwr tilt/telescopic steering wheel w/audio controls -inc: multi-info display controls, auto tilt-away|Dual-zone auto climate controls -inc: LCD controls, temp display, smog sensor, auto recirculation, micro dust filter, pollen filter|Front seatback pockets|Theft-deterrent system w/engine immobilizer|3-pod analog instrument cluster w/electro chromatic device (ECD) variable transparency glass feature|Aluminum alloy scuff plates|Door trim -inc: integrated armrests, folding front storage pockets|Alarm system|Drop-down controls located left of steering wheel -inc: exterior mirrors, meter brightness, odometer reset, trip meter reset, headlamp washer, rear sunshade, park assist, AFS off, interior lamp|Regency leather seat trim|(2) front & (2) rear assist grips|Carpeted floor mats|Retained accessory pwr|Rear window defogger w/auto-off timer|Pwr trunk & fuel door release w/valet trunk lockout|Wood trim|3-pod analog instrument cluster -inc: electrochromatic device (ECD) variable transparency glass feature|Wood & leather-trimmed pwr tilt/telescopic steering wheel -inc: audio & multi-info display controls, auto tilt-away|Cut pile carpeting|SmartAccess keyless entry -inc: 2-stage unlock, trunk open, panic feature, rolling code technology, remote window down, volume-adjustable confirmation tone|Dual visors w/illuminated vanity mirrors|Fully carpeted trunk w/integrated cargo net hooks|Push button engine start|Front/rear stabilizer bars|6-speed automatic electronically controlled transmission w/intelligence (ECT-i) -inc: OD, sequential-shift, pwr mode, normal mode, snow mode|Electronic spark advance (ESA)|Computer controlled ignition system|Electronic throttle control system w/intelligence (ETCS-i)|Electronic pwr rack & pinion steering|3.5L DOHC 24-valve DI V6 engine -inc: dual continuously variable valve timing w/intelligence (VVT-i)|4-wheel anti-lock brakes|Dual exhaust w/stainless steel tips|4-wheel vented anti-lock disc brakes|3.5L DOHC 24-valve DI V6 engine w/dual continuously variable valve timing w/intelligence (VVT-i)|Multi-link rear suspension -inc: high-mount upper arms, coil springs|4-wheel anti-lock vented disc brakes|Acoustic control induction system (ACIS)|Fluid filled engine mounts|Rear wheel drive|6-speed automatic electronically controlled transmission -inc: intelligence (ECT-i), OD, sequential-shift, pwr mode, normal mode, snow mode|4-wheel vented disc brakes|Double wishbone front suspension -inc: high-mount upper arms, coil springs|Front/rear gas-filled shock absorbers|Dual front airbags -inc: occupant-detecting front passenger airbag cutoff|Brake pedal regression prevention mechanism|Direct tire pressure monitoring system|Force-limiting seat belts for all outboard seating positions w/pretensioners|Emergency locking retractor (ELR) for all seating positions|3-point belts for all seating positions w/height-adjustable front shoulder belt anchors|Front/rear side curtain airbags|Child restraint seat (CRS) w/top tether anchor brackets, safety locks|Dual front seat-mounted side-impact airbags|Impact-dissipating upper interior trim|Dual front knee airbags|Front/rear energy managing crumple zones|Dual front airbags w/occupant-detecting front passenger airbag cutoff|Daytime running lights|Electronic brake force distribution (EBD) w/brake assist (BA)|Vehicle stability control system (VSC) w/cutoff function|Automatic locking retractor (ALR) for front/rear passenger seats

Wanted to have the Mark Levinson w/ the dvd option but willing to settle without it...car looks great...few minor scratches on the exterior which shouldn't be much to fix.
Old 06-01-16, 08:37 PM
  #12  
cloud777x
Rookie
iTrader: (1)
 
cloud777x's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Ca
Posts: 87
Likes: 0
Received 4 Likes on 4 Posts
Default

yeah.. what he said :oints up wards::

if you know a buddy that has a obd2 scanner or you yourself have one, bring it. make sure no pending trouble codes are present and all I/M readiness monitors are all complete.

there are shady people out there that will reset the car's computer and erase codes. Check Engine light and/or codes will not pop up until the monitor for that problematic component has been ran.
Old 06-02-16, 02:34 AM
  #13  
Lexxuss15
Driver School Candidate
 
Lexxuss15's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: Florida
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default

Originally Posted by cloud777x
yeah.. what he said :oints up wards::

if you know a buddy that has a obd2 scanner or you yourself have one, bring it. make sure no pending trouble codes are present and all I/M readiness monitors are all complete.

there are shady people out there that will reset the car's computer and erase codes. Check Engine light and/or codes will not pop up until the monitor for that problematic component has been ran.
I plan on taking the car to a separate dealership to have it inspected before purchase..im assuming they would have/do all of that or do i need to go and purchase a scanner myself?...also the car is being sold As-IS.
Old 06-02-16, 08:52 AM
  #14  
cloud777x
Rookie
iTrader: (1)
 
cloud777x's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Ca
Posts: 87
Likes: 0
Received 4 Likes on 4 Posts
Default

When you go to the dealership just ask the tech to check if all the readiness monitors are completed and see if there are pending codes.
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Beermoney
GS - 4th Gen (2013-2020)
16
07-27-16 12:32 PM
Mindcore
GS - 4th Gen (2013-2020)
49
11-21-15 03:51 PM
TBone12
GS - 3rd Gen (2006-2011)
33
09-14-10 06:18 PM
BarryV
GS - 2nd Gen (1998-2005)
13
04-14-10 10:26 PM
Stealth.GS
GS - 3rd Gen (2006-2011)
32
01-28-08 05:08 PM



Quick Reply: Help a n00b before he buys his first GS...



All times are GMT -7. The time now is 11:27 PM.