I am inheriting a 2004 ls430 with <100k miles. The service history is in files I won't have until after intake possession. What are the first things I should look out for? It's in great shape, garage kept, southern. Just want to treat it with as much respect as I can and keep it going. Will be about a once or twice weekly driver (I have a 50 mile total commute.)

 

The usual... Timing belt done within last 9 years is by far #1. Coolant in last 5 years (timing belt change will require coolant change anyway). Drain and fill trans if not done. Brake fluid. Diff fluid. Spark plugs if never done wouldn't hurt, technically at 120k miles but have they ever been done for age? Any motors (tilt/telescope wheel, seats, door locks). Air filter and cabin filter. Then any serious leaks (oil, coolant, power steering etc.) or anything broken. Have suspension checked for safety and make sure tires are not worn/over 6 years old/rotted. Serpentine belt checked. I'd change power steering fluid too. If records, some of these may not be needed.

Added: my battery never lasts over 3 years and is the #1 thing that has stranded me multiple times over 17 years of ownership. Get a trickle charger / desulfator, but better than that, just change it if over 2 years old. Timing belt will kill the car, but battery or tires can leave you stranded or with a blowout. I've had lots of repairs, but battery/tires + 1 alternator at 150k is all that has ever left me stuck or forced me off the road,

 

Once you get through demark1 list, if the car is not idling perfectly smoothly at about 700 rpms you might consider cleaning the throttle body and the idle air ports. If that has never been done it might be time. Also, proactively clean the mass air flow sensor. Change the oil on a six month basis regardless of miles, use a synthetic oil. Familiarize yourself with the owners manual maintenance schedule.

 

Good advice from both these gents. Major Congratulations!!! While these lists seem like a lot, it really isn't. There will be some start-up cost for self-assurance, but you just ROCK AND ROLLED!! These cars are amazing and you will feel special in it, BIG thanks to whomever is passing it to you, though I am sorry for your loss. The quality is amazing and after your initial expense your maintenance should be very low. I fully endorse the full renewal of every fluid and a major rubber check, all belts. Leaks shouldn't be an issue but could be, and you will have to run it up to temp driving it and then park it overnight to verify that.

Carve out some time to scroll through this forum, the information is invaluable. Use Google to search the forum, not the internal search. Always try typing "clublexus LS430 xxxxx(try a few ways to state your problem)". I still pay mechanics to do my 'dirty' jobs, but I roughly calculated about $2,000 in labor I have saved doing some things myself from knowledge gained here.

We're jealous, we all had to buy ours.
In 2014 I bought an 03 at 68k, loved it for 5-1/2 years to 141k and sold it to get my current 04, purchased in 2019 with 78k, NO plans to EVER sell currently at 162k.

 

starting by evaluating the age of the tires and battery. change all the fluids, and go from there

 

Closely inspect the entire radiator and hoses for any sign of pink crusties and make sure the overflow reservoir has fluid in it. As you start to drive the car monitor the level of the coolant in the overflow tank (when the engine has fully cooled down) to make sure the system is not losing any coolant. I would also consider replacing the PCV valve. Another suggestion is check that the valve cover bolts are not loose, GENTLY snug them if they are. The torque spec is very low.

 

Be sure to check the age of the tires including the spare. The year of manufacture is the last two digits of the DOT four digit identification number on the sidewall. Replacement is recommended if the tires are over six years old. Forgive me if I'm stating the obvious.

 

You can still log onto Lexus.com, enter the vin in your garage (the place on your profile to add a Lexus) and then visit the service history if the car was taken to Lexus.