Just saw a 2001 UL with 135k miles. All the gadgets and electronics were tested and work. After bringing it to a local mechanic he informed me of a few things:

1. Timing Belt/ Water Pump - never done
2. Valve Cover Gasket - leaking; replace spark plugs as well (probably not replaced)
3. 3 Air Shocks are "leaking" - consider replaced all 4 with stock OEM struts and springs
4. Front Lower control arm bushings - 2 ; need to be replaced
5. Transmission drain plug gasket - replace
6. 2 front tires needed - easily seen

From looking up the lexus history, it had regular oil changes but no clear indication of rear differential or transmission service.

The reason for my hesitation is that it is priced near NADA average trade in value.
What do you think the long term prognosis is for this vehicle given what it currently needs?
Is it worth fixing up? or just look for another?

Any thoughts wold be appreciated.

 

don't finish off this car. castrating air suspension is death to magnificent ls430...

 

I bought a 2001 Lexus LS430 Ultra with 179K Miles on it for $6500 about 6 months ago- Clean, no accidents, family owned.
Everything was done at the lexus dealer near me..
Brand new tires & Brakes
Needs another timing belt done

 

Easy answer NO.

 

This Lexus will need at least $3000 in repairs. If you can get this 3k off the price - maybe. Otherwise no.

 

If the owner neglected all this maintenance, why would you buy it? It sounds to me like alot of hard miles.

 

my local lexus dealer gave me $7500 trade for my 2001 LS430 ultra with 175,000 miles on it. I did purchase another LS430 from them though. Just sharing for price reference.

 

9425.00 is what i come up with nada quickly?

 

u forgot to tell us the most important thing the asking price

 

Took my 2006 LS430 Ultra with (at the time) 310,000 miles. I was offered $3500

 

Sorry, the asking price was 7k. Formerly 11k @ start but has been in inventory since early Oct.

 

7k isn't too bad, personally id rather spend a little more and get one with lower mileage, possibly a little newer

 

135k miles isn't usually a problem on these cars, but buying older LS430 with inadequate or missing maintenance record is almost always a bad idea unless you are getting the car for a huge discount. There is a reason it is sitting on the dealer lot for months. Good cars get sold very quickly.

 

If the body and the interior are clean, I'd pay $5k and put a couple grand into it.

 

I would buy it if the dealer would repair everything on your list...