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@erapmicks started a thread, "What is your year model and how many miles you have on your original starter ?"
This got me thinking. There are parts I have never touched, and not sure I should or what to look for. I'ss assume LS430 here unless you have reason to mention another car.
Here goes:. 2005 UL.
Air susp: All original. Car rides fime but not soft and as isolated as I remember. From what I've read, could be air struts age or time to change bushings. I am not touching this until I need to. Too expensive, or unknown-brand parts from ebay. I am local driver, lowish miles for now. Had car inspected, mechnic said all is fine. Unasked, he said to change struts. I asked why? He said just age/miles. They look fine but he assume they are worn. He is probably right, But he only uses OE and sells parts at "retail". When I need to, I'll consider coilovers, Amyama etc. Not putting $10k into air struts .
Starter: Died around 150k, probably I damaged cranking after dead battery, as per earlier post.
Alternator: Died with no clear warning around 150k. My replacement cost $525 if I recall 3-4 years ago at a chain (Firestone). Parents' es350 died at similar mileage and cost much more. This is the only time ever that I needed to tow my LS430 for a repair.
A/C Compressor: last summer. Around 165k. Had internittent issues before. Was told it was not spinning (clutch?) if I recall. Good to wait, as warm A/C is not an emergency. Hope i didn't just need refrigerant... Always the fear of being cheated.
Radiator: ORIGINAL. Am I crazy? I've read about trans cooler line corrosion, etc. I get lazy but should check level, since my overflow tank seems to lose all new coolant within 1-2 weeks, for years now.
I thought I had replied but it's gone, that's how it goes sometimes.
Long story short, if it ain't broke, don't fix it, with the exception of leaks/fluids, and maintenance. toyota parts are off the hook, another level.
I did my radiator last Dec. at 243 months old--fluid on ground and on top of radiator. Managed to get OE for 40% off no tax free ship. Plastic clips for the fan wiring and a screw snapped underneath for a plastic support, happens with 20+ yo cars.
I'd address your coolant situation, pink coolant ain't cheap either.
In my '05, all the parts are original except the timing belt and the battery and of course fluids and filters. Original radiator, alternator, starter, (non-air) suspension, AC compressor, wheel bearings, ball joints, sensors, actuators, gaskets, subwoofer etc. A Seattle dealer did the 90K mile service and the maintenance log does not indicate a new water pump, so that is probably also still original.
In my '05, all the parts are original except the timing belt and the battery and of course fluids and filters. Original radiator, alternator, starter, (non-air) suspension, AC compressor, wheel bearings, ball joints, sensors, actuators, gaskets, subwoofer etc. A Seattle dealer did the 90K mile service and the maintenance log does not indicate a new water pump, so that is probably also still original.
Impressive. Could be you are at 90k (or was that in past?), but age is age too. I'm not that badly off at 170k. One wheel bearing years ago. But I've spend a lot on this car over last 8 years. 8k in repairs not counting tires (2 sets), brakes, 2 timing belts (early water pump leak) and all other routine maint. 4k of that was in one shot in 2018 with all the CEL problems. Yet car has given me no reason yet to think it is not fine today, despite the susp not feeling perfect.. I won't count bodywork needed on my bumper, new headlights needed, trunk struts, hood struts, etc. And seat upholstery repairs. Age-stuff to be expected.
Preventative parts replacement timeline thread
