2004 ls430

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Aug 24, 2022 | 07:46 AM

Commuter

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Joined: Jan 2016

Posts: 15

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From: Indiana

2004 ls430

I'm considering this dealer-maintained LS430 with a documented timing belt service. It looks like it's just a Premium Package.
https://www.lexusofmerrillville.com/...e-in/67410143/

Anything specific to look for when I test drive it? And how much better is the leather in some of the upper-level trims?

This would be the proverbial second car as I drive a lot and like to split mileage.

Aug 24, 2022 | 08:43 AM

LatinLS430

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From: AZ

Check for rust and ask to put the car in the lift so you can see. It's probably time for another timing belt job.

Aug 24, 2022 | 09:02 AM

TominPT

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Joined: Jan 2018

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From: WA

The upper level trims (custom luxury and ultra luxury) were available with a higher grade Nappa leather IIRC. The engine and transmission should be completely smooth running and no suspension noises at all. Agree with the above post- check thoroughly for rust and run if you find it.

Aug 24, 2022 | 03:04 PM

texan_176

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From: TX

This one is kind of base of base. It does not have the smart key system which is kind of rare. That said, it is a great car. I actually prefer the base models because they lack the now very outdated navigation system/screen. Less options = less stuff to go wrong.

Check the thing mounted on the transmission tunnel. It looks like a radio of some kind. Make sure they did not hack up the wiring to install that and it can be removed to return the car to stock. If you buy it, have the dealer put it back to stock for you as part of the deal. Hopefully, they did not drill holes in the transmission tunnel to install brackets for it.

Aug 25, 2022 | 04:32 AM

Commuter

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From: Indiana

Thanks! I did read that upgrading the non-Nav cars stereo to a modern unit is much easier.

The box is a CB radio - the seller advised it was cleanly installed and fused, so hopefully nobody took a hacksaw to the wiring harness.

Aug 25, 2022 | 08:41 AM

Commuter

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Driver School Candidate

Joined: Jan 2016

Posts: 15

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From: Indiana

Unfortunately it sold! Will keep looking....

Aug 30, 2022 | 06:24 AM

weldthedif

Instructor

Joined: Jul 2017

Posts: 928

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From: South Carolina

I 2nd the notion of getting a base model one, without the air suspension that WILL FAIL, and the NAV screen which is hilariously outdated and will also eventually fail.

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Feb 2, 2023 | 11:26 AM

intermec

Advanced

Joined: Oct 2008

Posts: 503

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From: wa

As an owner of a 03 UL, I think air suspension is a hit or miss. The parts and build quality are there, If the car has been used as daily driver under normal conditions, I think the system should last. There really not much the owner can do to prevent the air suspension to fail. Then of course, one they fail, the cost is high. Other issues relate to UL are more like electrical (for me). One of my rear door no longer able to "soft close" itself but that feature is really not impacting me much. However, the door lock does post a safety concern for me. When it gets stuck (once a while), I can't open it from both inside and outside (rear right).