jtuoti

I've got a client who's father (elderly) owns a '98 LS 400 w/Nav and only has 12,000 miles on the clock. Apparently, he doesn't want to sell (but I'm working on him, trust me) but I have a couple questions I'm hoping the experts here can help out with. I understand a bit about cars (older ones, not today's electronic wizardry) and I also know that a machine is meant to be used.

With it having this low of mileage, what are some things I should look out for? If I can get it for $25,000 I'm going to be a happy new Lexus owner but I don't want to get it and spend another 2-3 grand on repairs because it's sat so long. What do you think? TIA, Jon

meZoom!

try finding what the PATTERN of driving for this person is/was. short trips, stop and go?? or occasional freeway cruising?? also make sure the most basic maintenance was done according to mileage AND/OR months. Lexus is quite durable, just having it sit around a tad bit more than it should isn't going to hurt it too much. just uh...visual check that it's not rusted in the engine bay

LS400

Well, I think for a 1998 LS400 with only 12,000 miles, the condition should be pretty close to excellent. As meZoom! said, just check on how the car was driven during those 12,000 years. But if the car has been "baby'd," then I'd say for it!

Our 1999 LS400 (same generation of the LS400) has more than 90,000 miles and has had no problems (besides an accident) and still runs like when it still new!

jtuoti

Thanks for the ideas...will definitely "grill" the old guy a bit to see if I can get some info. Do you think it's necessary to get an aftermarket warranty if you know the person who had the car and have a pretty good idea that they maintained it well? I know having a crystal ball for future gazing would be handy, but a good warranty on a car out of manufacturer's warranty is going to set me back another $2 grand. I realize the benefits of a warranty and if you need one, you're glad you had one but just trying to get people's opinions. thanks

oac3

On a '98 w/Nav with only 12k miles, you should have NO PROBLEM. If the old guy will give it away for $25K, grab the key and run with it. Don't even wait to ask about the warranty

Seriously, I don't know what you are worrying about, the LS will go 200k miles before a major rebuild of engine or tranny will be needed. As long as the car is maintained well (not much for a 12k miles usage) you should have no worries.

SharpLS-96

If the car is an original AZ car then there will be no rust in the engine bay area since it's so dry with extremely low humidity in AZ.

Make sure to check that none of the rubber has dried out and/or cracked because of the dryness and extreme heat in the summer. Temp is 115 degrees or so daily for weeks.
For ex: CV boots, bushings, gaskets, hoses, serpentine belt, etc.