AzLex1999

I don't own a lexus, but Ill be looking at a 1998 LS400, with 250,000 miles. They listed it for $5,100, but told them I wouldn't pay over $4,000. They listed some recent service history but I'm not if this is something to even look into with that kind of mileage. Are these cars still reliable with that mileage? What kind of things do I look for? Any common problems?

Any advice helps.

AlaskanLS

Buy yourself a newer Corolla with that much money, 250000 miles isn't bad for that car but the price is too high.

Losiracer2

You shouldn't pay over 3k for a 98 with that many miles. I paid 2700 for my 97' back in 2015 w/ 253k and the guy spent about 1200 in parts fixing the car up before I got it (new tires, alternator, tint, strut rods, radiator, brakes)

All the rubber seals and vacuum hoses should be addressed by now since the car is nearly 20 yrs old. My camshaft and crankshaft seals were leaking at that mileage, and the lower balljoints were worn out with a lot of slop. If your starter hasn't been done yet, then it might happen soon. A lot of people have issues with that typically around 175k-225k.

EthanS

As others have said 250k isn't absurd for these things. I have friends in the PHX area with 300k+ on their LS's as their daily drivers and you would never guess the mileage is that high. It all comes down to if you think its worth taking care of them.

Straight up, $4k dollars is still a bit much... Let them sit on it for a while and they will have to come down. Is it posted on craigslist in the PHX area? Trust me, I'm not planning on swooping in and stealing this from you. I've already got one of my own. I will actually help you out and offer them $3k haha.

AzLex1999

Yeah, starter has been changed, as well as tie rods, ball joints, steering rack & pump. It has an exhaust, coil overs (lowered), and some rims, and other cosmetic changes, which I think is probably the reason for such high of a price.

And yeah, it's in the PHX area.

These cars don't come in manual do they?

YODAONE

$2,000 tops...and that is with good body and interior.You can find a lower mileage 2000 LS400 for $3,500-4,000.

At this juncture, if I was looking for an LS series would pursue an LS430

spuds

What he said.i paid 2500 for 245,xxx miles,but the maintenance records were stellar.

lextout

AzLex1999

Alright, I don't think I'll go through with this. Too high of mileage. The reason I'm leaning towards getting an LS is because Ive heard it's reliable, and it has a V8 so... I come from owning a Jaguar, and feel like it's a ticking time bomb that eats my pockets.

I wanted an LS that had some nice rims and a good lowered look to it. I think if I can't find that, then I'll probably go with a different car.

spuds

The mileage isnt the issue.These cars will do that mileage,and a lot more.The issue is was it maintained.If your priority is rims,you can and should by a low mileage anything else IMO.

Sin1UZFE

Paid 400 for mine, wasnt well maintained beyond the timing belt and seals. Would pay 3k if everything was 100% working order

Losiracer2

Search California ads and craigslist. A lot of VIP and stanced cars are over there that people customize so you might be in luck finding one already done up.

400fanboy

They are automatic only.

Car sounds finished and has some common problems addressed. But unless it is in 10\10 pristine condition with excellent service records included, in the color you want, with a MINT interior, $5k is too much. I paid $5500 for a A++++ condition silver 98 with 120k miles maintained by the dealer it's whole life without air-ride. A modified car with double the miles has a lot more questions.

Age of the coilovers, starter motor, timing belt, tire depth\age, paint condition, leather condition, gaskets\rubber all would be potential issues. The only cars that should be in the 5k+ range are perfect low(er) mile examples. That one should be in the 3-4k range if everything is in working order.

sha4000

iTrader: (1)

Way too much for that car.

Amish

I paid $3500 with tax and DMV fees for a 99 LS400 w/ 143k

That is waaay too much for that LS with 250k on the clock. First i doubt I'd even buy it but I wouldn't pay more than $2500 for it and even that is pushing it.