I've been really wanting a facelift one for a long time but I don't know if its a good move in this case.

they're both silver on black, the 02 has 109k, service records till 06 with all services done in that time span.

the 04 has 126k will all services from new to this year at Lexus dealer, every single service done.

they're both in good condition inside and out, the 04 is $2000 more. is the 04 worth it?

 

Since the mileage is similar on both, you're pretty much getting a fully serviced car with all the facelift upgrades and styling for $2k, sounds like a pretty good deal to me!

 

that's what I wanted to hear!

 

04 facelift hands down. I was obsessed with the 2004-06 facelift to the point that I decided to sell my mint 2001 LS430 with 85K miles. The front is so much sleeker and modern looking. I love the sweeping headlights. Im currently in the market for an 05-06 with under 70K

 

No brainer... 04 for sure. The upgrades are easily $2k more.

 

Built-in bluetooth makes the 04 worth it based on that feature alone IMO.
It might not be as valuable to others, but in areas where you're prohibited from using your phone without a hands-free set while driving, it's a life-saver.

 

Just be aware of the transmission issues with the 2004

 

Definitely the 04! The upgrades are worth the extra money.

 

I just purchased a 2004 LS 430 in Dec. What are the transmission issues?

 

^^^
Check the service history on Lexus.com to verify that the transmission TSB was performed for poor shifting & parking pawl problem.

 

also there was a transmission recall for some 2004 LS430s

 

I wouldn't worry about this. Those were on the earliest production models and all were handled on warrantee. Only an idiot would have refused to have that done.

 

Well there are idiots out there for sure. A few years ago I looked at a 2004 for sale that was affected by the recall and didn't have it done.

 

I'd definitely go for the 04. No offense to anyone, but I think the 01-03 looks pretty awkward when you compare it to the post-facelift LS. I never, EVER, knew what Lexus was thinking with those 15" looking standard rims that came on the 01 LS. Hideous.

However, I'd die for the red needles for the gauges that they got rid of in the 04+ ones. Why did they have to change that? Lol.

If you've got a clean bill of health for it from the dealer, go for it. 126k is nothing on these cars.