Jmoney0021

Hey guys, this is my first post in this forum. As the title says, Im looking at potentially purchasing a 2015 Lexus GS 350 F Sport. I have plenty of savings and a good job, so money isn't a huge issue, but I am just out of college, so I'm not looking to put myself in a bad situation.

Right now, I'm between a used 2015 Lexus GS 350 F sport with 41k miles (listed at 29k right now), a 2018 Honda Accord 2.0T, and maybe a used accord.

I've done a lot of research and test driven both cars, so I'm familiar with most differences in the cars (Lexus is more luxurious and nicer overall, but the new accord is also really nice with updated tech and a quick 2.0T).

A brand new accord will cost me probably 5k more up front than the Lexus, but I'm somewhat worried about maintenance/repairs on the Lexus. I know it should be very reliable, but from what I've read, repairs can be very expensive if something does go wrong. I've read that people don't get too many miles on their tires (265 rear 235 front) and I've seen some things mentioned about f sport breaks going our quicker.

​​​​​​I know this is a Lexus forum so I'm sure the Lexus will be most recommend, but are there any big maintenance/upkeep/repair issues I should be aware of with this Lexus? I just dont want to get myself into a situation where I have to spend tons of money on upkeep. I know with the accord (especially since it will have the warranty from the factory) won't have much maintenance cost especially the first few years.

ph0bolus

I'd say go for a '16 gs350 just for the updated grill, but that's just my opinion. If you decide on an '18 Accord try going for a used one, so you won't be taking such a huge depreciation hit on a new car.

I haven't test driven the Accord, but you'll definitely get more safety features and tech on the Accord, plus you won't have to deal with the cumbersome Lexus infotainment and mouse/cursor system.. It's all preference in the end since you'll be driving it everyday.

rj4510

Every time I buy a new car it seems I'm debating a bit older Lexus against a bit newer fill in the blank! None of my Lexus cars have cost me more to own than anyone I know with Toyotas, Hondas, but a ton less than other brands. I just keep going back to Lexus, because of 1. Comfort, 2. I can find it in the parking lot way faster, since there isn't an identical one sitting next to it. Could have been a debatable decision with our RX, but it's burgundy and not a ton of those around here.

The Lexus infotainment system can be a bit annoying, but not sure Honda/Acura are any less annoying. They have touch screen but burry all controls including climate on some models, so you can't do a thing without searching through stuff. You'll have to get out and drive them and see which fits your lifestyle/driving habits best. Both will go the distance, so no need for concern there.

JDR76

Not being a fan of the Accord or the 2.0t, I would go GS, though both cars definitely have their merits.

I've had my 2015 GS350 F Sport for about 2.5 years now. I'm still on my original tires and brakes. I've spent about $100 on maintenance over that time (an oil change).

rj4510

joedaddy1

iTrader: (1)

Get the Lexus. You are young. Go easy on drinking and going out.

If you want to go out drinking and eat out all the time, get the used Accord, the last-gen models look good anyways.

The new Accords are hideous anyways..

Jmoney0021

Thanks for the input guys. I've test driven both but I'm gonna go out and test drive some more. Definitely gonna be a tough decision. Regarding the tires - anyone have good recommendations? Curious how much it's going to cost to replace and how long they'll last

UNC1334

You're looking at $800-1000 since they are staggered and will wear faster. Mine lasted about 35k, but all depends on your driving habits.

If your main concern is cost of maintenance and tires, you should look elsewhere.

If you do decide to go Lexus, get a CPO GS 350 and your only expenses will be brakes and tires/oil changes.

Lots of 2016 will be coming of lease the nest 6 months, so maybe wait a little bit.

anbark22

Get the Lexus, it's bullet proof. Also, if you want a good deal, see the Lexus classifieds (Ha Ha, see mine).
Thanks,
anbark22

jonathancl

Hah...upkeep issues.

Buy the Lexus. You'll understand.

I drove my 2001 GS430 from 2004 to 2017, put 160k miles on it.
I had no unexpected mechanical failures, and it never let me down, not once.
Most expensive work was timing belt and water pump for $1000.
Only things I replaced were rotors, pads, lower ball joints, batteries, filters, oil.
If my neighbor hadn't dented the fender, I'd probably still be driving it.

I bought a 2013 GS350 w 72k on it last year because I know the mileage and age doesn't matter as long as the oil's been changed.


As for Honda...our MDX just isn't as well designed as the Lexus, and while the parts are generally less, they're not as high quality.
Take the rotors: my Lexus rotors were on the car for eight years and looked great.
After only three, the MDX rotors look like hell at the edges, flaking out and rubbing the heat shields.

Lexus/Toyota does fit, finish, design, and manufacturing better then Honda, always has.

roblim

My personal experience with Hondas is that they are not as reliable long term as Toyotas. The Honda brakes, transmissions, pumps seem to fail much more frequently than the same components on Toyota products.

e60bmw

iTrader: (1)

Get the Lexus, the accord is boring imo, and I"m not a fan of the styling after being behind one at a light today.

Mike552

bb700092

With any used vehicle, you are taking a risk as you do not know how the owner(s) treated the vehicle even if all service records are available and there is no accident history. What if the owner drove his vehicle to test its 0-60 mph time at every opportunity he got? What if he did some mod (e.g. suspension) that deteriorated the longevity of certain parts of the vehicle and then reversed the mod just before selling? A new car always costs more but you know what you are getting is what came from the factory -- nobody messed with it.

Since you "have plenty of savings and a good job, so money isn't a huge issue", why don't you buy a new 2018 GS350? It starts at low $50k and you can easily get 10% off after incentives/haggling. The 2018 GS300 is another option if you are okay with the 4 cyl turbo on the GS. It starts below $47k.

Knucklebus

If money is no hardship, buy new. If you only keep it a few years and trade in, buy new. If you are incapable or unwilling to do any sort of maintenance or due diligence on a purchase, buy new. People like me depend on people that buy new to get our second hand jewels for 1/2 price. It leaves a lot of money free to do other things.