jbondbmw

Looking to get into an LS430. I found what looks like a nice example about 2 hours away from me:

https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/d...t&CMP=atempest

I am able to look at it Saturday as I will be out that way for another obligation anyway.

I currently own a 2012 VW Golf and would like something bigger with a V8.

After looking at the common issues, these cars don't seem to bad. Making sure the timing belt/wp is done, door lock actuators, the ML audio system, etc.

I would like to pay more like $9.5k for it, but I don't know if that is reasonable. Just looking for any advice and if that looks like a good example of the breed.

onthelo

Sounds like a solid find. Just look over the typical stuff service records, maintenance, body panel fitment ... really just depends what your looking for exactly. The mileage is good as long as it was maintained with oil changes and normal service. Check tires, brake level things you may need to replace after purchase they add up everything on Lexus is $$$ because of the quality. Good luck, they are hard to come by!

TriC

The Carfax report is somewhat odd with essentially no record of service early (probably because it was a lease vehicle) and then it gets better with age. No mention of a timing belt change though. Beware of possible rust issues in this Cleveland area car as there is a lot of salt use there.

jbondbmw

I agree, I noticed the absence of a TB change. That could be why the PO sold the car since it looks like he always had it served at Metro Lexus and I am sure a TB job at the dealer is brutal. I am in Erie, PA so I am familiar with watching for rust. I have my current car undercoated with Fluid Film every year. I will be sure to get under the car and check the bottom of the doors, around the license plate, and wheel arches.

Does the LS430 have good factory rust proofing?

05ls430518

iTrader: (1)

The door lock actuators are an easy fix each acutaor is about $240-$180 and you can swap them in and out in 20 mins, I paid $10,500 out the door with tax tags and rego for my 2005 with 82,000 on it like 8 months ago so that seems legit. Be carefull as some dealerships have a $500 runners fee and all sorts of made up stuff just to add money on you should be at $11,500-$11,700 when everything is said and done with the dealership, if you purchase the car.

jbondbmw

This car is also in the same area, significantly cheaper, lots more miles, no nav, thoughts on this one?

https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-...delCode1=LS430

jpv7774

11k for that car is a very fair deal........its a 70k car new.......cool color....looks well maintained. I paid 11k for my 04 with 130k miles on it 3 years a go and would do it again.

yoitskenn

iTrader: (4)

What’s with the mufflers? Bent?

jbondbmw

I see your point, the left exhaust on the silver one does look messed up.

05ls430518

iTrader: (1)

That is probably the exhaust tip that just needs to be pushed back on I would still take a look at the car.