Looking for 3rd gen LS for my father and wondering any recommendations when buying the LS. I narrowed down my search to 04+ and not UL. Is there anything I should look out for? Does LS have any sticky dash situations like my 09 ES350 (which was replaced by the dealership)? Or any electric issues? Thanks in advance.

 

Hi socaligs. Your questions have been gone over pretty thoroughly in many threads in the line of "should I buy this car?" In a nutshell, look for absence of rust, maintenance on schedule, and overall condition. No sticky dash issues like the LS460 had. No common electrical issues other than tilt/telescope and outside mirrors (not too common). Test everything when you look at a car. It should drive with extreme smoothness in the power train, no suspension noises, and idle smooth as glass. Mileage is not as important as condition. I would not hesitate to buy a 150,000 mile car if maintained on schedule. The good ones sell fast so be prepared to act immediately if you find the right car. West Coast (WA, OR and CA, + AZ, NV) tend to be rust free. Expect to pay $ 10K + for a good example with under 130,000 miles right now in WA, OR or CA.

 

thank you for your input. Glad that the 3rd gen does not have the sticky dash situation. Thank you once again!

 

My 2005 was from Florida and had only 17k when I purchased 2 years ago. I had to replace the telescope steering motor as TominPT referred to. Another common problem was that the finish on my wooden steering wheel was all cracked. Hood support also failed, a common issue. New replacements on Amazon less than $50.
If the car you find has navigation the maps can easily be upgraded to 2016 with a DVD found on EBay. If car has close to 100k it will be due for timing belt and water pump. If you find an Ultra Luxury edition the air suspension may be defective. This is an expensive fix from what I’ve read. ( I test drove 2 UL models and the air suspension didn’t work on either)
All in all these are fine cars. Comfortable and quiet ride.

 

05-06 might be the best route to go for this generation. Other than going for a Southern car (rust free), maintenance records are the key to your decision. Miles are secondary as 150,000 miles is not big deal with proper records. Many of these cars are now in the 200,000+ range, and although still relatively reliable, the bigger repairs are probably around the corner. Again, 1) maintenance records 2) Rust and accident free. Reasonable mileage 100-150,000 give or take. Good luck

PS... Being that you live in California, your candidates for rust free cars are there.... however prices for the LS as well as most desirable used cars in your state are at a premium..... especially these days. .

 

04-06 if possible, maint records, no wrecks and not a car from the north. As others mentioned...don't be worried about some miles if it has been maintained and is clean. I know someone w an 05 LS430 w 250k miles and going strong. All service kept up and garage kept.

I'd pass on an adjustable suspension car unless it was exceptional