MozartMan

Hello everybody.

I am new to the forum. This is probably one of many “looking to buy” posts, but I really need opinions and suggestion from experienced Lexus owners here.

I am looking for the first car for my kid to get through high school. He got obsessed with Lexus LS 400/430 models. I found one yesterday - 2001 Lexus LS 430 with ultra package. Seller is asking $4,000, or best offer. Car has 275,000 miles on her.

This is what seller texted me yesterday:
I ran Autocheck VIN report and it shows:

Calculated owners – 5.
No accidents.
Clean title.
2001-2007 - was leased car.
2007-2017 – looks like private owner.

Should I even consider this car with so many miles?

I really appreciate in advance any opinions and suggestions.

Regards,
MozartMan

greg s

It's typically more about maintenance than miles. These cars will run forever when maintained properly.

caverman

This is just my opinion but that's a lot of miles and I would be leary to purchase it. There are other things besides the motor and trans that will need replacing with that much mileage (suspension, door locks, steering wheel motors, etc). Just know they are going to have a hard time selling it and so will you if you buy it. I would have to get it for a really low price and consider it that you will probably be the last owner of the car. I would also have it looked over by a mechanic first.

Fish

iTrader: (26)

At that mileage it should be due for its 3rd timing belt? Every 90,000 miles..

MozartMan

Thanks guys. I guess I will skip this one.

caverman

Not trying to discourage you from and LS. Keeping looking you'll find something more reasonable.

Jkallinen

Here is a car almost identical to the one I bought this past January. Found it online ans it was list for $3850 with 130,000 miles on it.
My buy the body is in rougher shape but the interior shots are just like mine. Picked mine up for $3636 after trading in my 97 Toyota
Avalon XLS with 226,000 miles on it.
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-s...delCode1=LS430

Jkallinen

Here is the car I bought.

Duck05

Likely a good decision... There will be a lot of other choices ... may have to widen your search radius but it will be worth it down the road.... Great car and rare that a high school person really wants one and not some low slung sport car... Good luck... post us with what you end up acquiring (and pictures are always good....)

lextout

imo, white, silver, black and burgundy are the most beautiful colors in the 430's

Jabberwock

Wow $4000 LS430's. Hard to imagine a better buy if the car is in good shape, was well maintained, and still runs good.

MozartMan

Thanks for the luck, Duck.

I ended up with 2007 GS 350 AWD. Here are some pics.
https://www.clublexus.com/g/album/7572356

Legender

Congrats on the purchase and certainly hope it works out well for your new driver. AWD will help in MI that's for sure.
Looks nice and clean. Will have a sportier/firmer ride than the LS, but I'm sure it's appreciated. Great job Dad.

tallcaguy

Smart move. Too many potential problems. These cars are great but expensive to fix

MX5

I woulda given you more than 214 dollars for it!