I am looking into purchasing a 2008 Lexus IS 250 with 145K miles for around $10.5K. The car is in mint condition and has been very well maintained; however, the brakes/rotors/drum appears to be rusted -- most likely due to salt buildup.

When I test drove the car, the brakes seemed to work just fine (no squeaking). I really like the car, but I am not a fan of the way this looks.

I have done a bit of research on this issue, but wanted to post this to the forum to see if any of y'all knew anything about it. Can the rust be removed (could I do it myself or would I need to take it to a shop)?

On another note, do you think it is a good idea to purchase a car with that many miles on it? From my understanding, a Lexus motor can last for 200K miles, assuming it is well maintained (I would take good care of it).

Please let me know your thoughts. I have included images of the rust to aid my description. Thanks so much.

 

They are most likely just aftermarket rotors. Factory rotors have those areas painted to help prevent this from happening. It doesn't really affect much if anything functionally, it just doesn't look as nice. Replacing the rotors would get rid of the issue and if you get some that are painted (like factory) or e-coated (like Stoptech) you shouldn't have quite the same happen again.

Jeff

 

That is just surface rust...just about all rotors will have that unless they are painted or where the hub is made of material that doesnt rust. You can sand it off but it will return. With 145k miles, those rotors may be reaching the minimum thickness spec...might be time to swap it out either way. I would say 145k is the halfway point for this drivetrain. Still plenty of life to go.

 

Is this something that could be removed by a corrosion liquid remover, like Action Corrosion?

 

Just paint it you'll be fine

 

I'm assuming the car has been sitting on a lot, and not used for awhile, but kept washed. That rust is nothing to be concerned about. As stated above it's surface rust and happens to all bare surfaces on all rotors. Forget about it and enjoy the car. Only replace the rotors if the minimum thickness is lower than recommended.

Lou