TriC

In spite of recently buying a nice '03 GS300, I'm still on the lookout for a good LS430. Have now located an '06 with a perfect documented service history. Actually, it's better than perfect - the timing belt has been changed twice within 90,000 miles! All service has been performed by a Lexus dealer with all fluid changes performed right on the dot.

How much value (by percentage or dollars) would/should such a service history enhance the price of an LS430?

Bob04

If all service record are there and everything was done, I would think it would be at least a $2500 to $3000 premium. Well worth that in my opinion. It was a huge consideration in my recent 04 purchase.

ltd76gold

I agree with Bob04. The "complete service history" tells a story like no other imo. While the value may be debated on other cars, these like to be well cared for and will reward those that keep them in great condition.

Good find, if its the color you like with the package your desire, top dollar is warranted.

Doug k

2KHarrier

For those who appreciate this car, yes, it adds value. But many individuals purchase a used car based on it's current condition (what it looks like/drives like right now) so, for those who are uneducated or who don't care, it probably wouldn't make that much difference knowing that past maintenance was done.

For me, it makes all the difference in the world.

XJSFan

Service history means everything for these cars and if it was done by a Lexus dealer, all the better... Putting a dollar value on it is tough and if it was me, then I would just not be afraid to buy the 06 LS430. Look up fair/private market values and pay that if it has what you believe is perfect service records. I would not pay over market value for it though.

Stu

Sure its worth more, and the Lexus dealer knows that too ! The dealer is probably already including a premium in their asking price. They know what they feel the premium is worth. Whats it worth to you .... How many total miles are on the car and what is their "asking" price ?

TriC

It's at a new car dealer, but not a Lexus store. With less than 100,000 miles, the asking price is midway between Edmunds "clean" dealer retail number and NADA's "clean retail" figure (and about $1200 over KBB's private party "very good" valuation), so there doesn't seem to be a premium on it.

warminwisc

What's it worth? Peace of mind.

Jabberwock

If the interior and exterior is in great shape and its been garage kept I'd jump on it before someone else gets it. It is likely worth more than the price premium because most folks don't value it properly. These cars are amazing especially if they have been owned by someone that maintained them by the book or better.

I am OCD about maintaining and keeping my cars clean and my 2006 LS has rewarded that level of care by continuing to run and look virtually as new even with 12 years and 100k miles. I have had other high end cars age slowly due to good care, but the LS430 is in a class by itself in terms of staying in amazing shape over the years.

Johnhav430

imho....5k services are unnecessary, so if a vehicle had a history of 5k services, every 5k, it really doesn't mean that much. I have never had a 5k service since buying my LS430 used. Am I missing anything at all? There would have been 4 of them, to the tune of potentially $800. My carfax then is not "perfect." my .02

warminwisc

Is this a trick question?

TriC

LOL, no, but if had been, your "piece of mind" comment would have been the best answer!

It is astonishing how many LS430s have not had timing belt service. Typically, the owner says, "It's not due until X miles," completely disregarding age. Also, many seem to have received religious dealer service until change of ownership (or hitting a certain mileage) and then the record becomes slim.

JffGRY706

of coarse the original owner is going for dealer service, under warranty. my car was CPO for second owner up to 100,000 miles so again dealer serviced. when I bought mine it had been dealer serviced at @67,000 miles by second owner, but at 72,000 miles it had lost all the smart keys and was on a BUICK lot in Amarillo 2 hours away. price was too good to pass up and I bought it site unseen. risky maybe but best car I have ever owned so jack pot for me. I just had dealer service for 130,000 miles and my 12 dealer services in almost 5 years have all been pleasant. dealers vary, but my local LEXUS dealer is great. I plan to continue going there until I wear out my welcome. they charge $115 per hour for labor which is fair and they don't waste time just throwing parts at a problem like an independent will. just my .02 cents

2KHarrier

A byproduct of loss of value in a car. Think of a 10-15 year old ES330.. It's at a price point that going to the dealer just doesn't make financial sense for the new owner. They'll go to the corner garage before hitting the dealership.

I continue to go to the dealer for oil changes on my 2001 because it's really not a bad deal and they do a fantastic job cleaning the car. I've gotten to know a couple of the mechanics and service writers, so when I'm there, they ask me about working on planes and I ask them about issues with the LS, or lack thereof....

XJSFan

Remember these cars are getting old and will have issues even if they have been babied and over serviced... I would buy another one if the servicing has been done and if it was a good deal. Again, I would not over pay for even a 2006 LS because its 12 years old. If you are patient, you can find almost perfect low mileage LS's and GS's for fair market pricing or below...