Hi all, should I buy a 2008 LS460 with around 80k miles for 18k? I am aware of the potential issues such as the air suspension and brake actuator, but are these issues really that common? If I get the car serviced at an independent shop, will the maintenance cost still be expensive? I currently own a 2007 GS350 and would like to know how reliable the LS is in comparison. Here is a link to the car. https://www.carfax.com/vehicle/JTHGL46F185023776

 

Also, I would like to mention that I don't drive very much, so I would not rack miles on the car very quickly. I drive less than 5k miles a year.

 

There is a recent listing by a long time member here for a 2013 Ultra luxury model on this site, by the time you get through with tax and fees the price difference would be negligible considering the year difference.
Might be worth your time to check it out.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/market/1023378

 

I wouldn't consider anything older than 2012...

 

Are you planning on keeping the GS350 as well, or are you trading that in for an LS? I think the 2013+ cars are worth the hassle. But if you just need comfort and reliability get a 2019 Avalon Limited.

 

Hard to say when or if something will go wrong with the car…

I would check out Gerfs link to swfla old car.

Seems like you’ve done some homework on common failing items such as air suspension failure, brake actuator, short lives of control arms (road conditions seem to play a major role on longevity), valley plate leak.

I sold my 13 Fsport few months ago for a GSF & I miss the smooth luxury glide of the LS, BUT don’t miss the $$$$ for maintenance.

 

Look at the service history on the Lexus website. I took a peak already and saw this vehicle has had regular services at Lexus, all front control arms were replaced by Lexus in 10/15/2018, fuel pressure sensor recall was completed 05/21/2015.

So you still have brake actuator replacement possible, valley plate leak, and rear control arms if not front depending on what they replaced them with.

All in all, I would say this is probably as good as you're going to get with a used 2008 LS. It doesn't look like it's been neglected and has a healthy service history. But it won't be cheap to maintain - doesn't matter where you end up taking it. It won't be the same as your GS350.

Also, I think $18,000 is high. You will immediately be underwater on it if you take a loan out - I don't see you getting anything close to that if you needed to sell right away.

 

My 08 base is a true joy to drive. Worth every repair dollar imo. Torquey motor wants to go.

 

I have an 08 my self, bought with 112k miles and now had 134k, The brake actuator went out on mine and I had to pay to get it repaired.

I change oil every 3k miles and rotate tires along with coolant and brake flush done and spark plugs at 121k miles. I also have the dealer do my transmission drain and refill.

it’s a joy to drive everyday and I think the style is timeless as it doesn’t look outdated to me. Mine doesn’t have air suspension so less items for me to worry about.

if it checks out fine and you have an independent shop that can work on it, then it won’t be any more expensive to maintain than any other modern car of today.
good luck

 

I see that you are from Texas, are you in san antonio by any chance?

 

While I loved my 2008 when I owned it, this car is now old and past it's prime. Is it a great car? Sure. Will you spend lots of money maintaining the car? Probably. Also, unless the previous owner updated the tech with carplay, it's relatively techless. Of course to some, that may be a good thing. Good luck.

 

I'm selling my 2007 LS460 for only $8400. I'm posting it to Cars.com today.

It is a cherry, but higher mileage. Located in north San Diego.

https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-...2f8d5f90f664ac

Send me a PM if want more info.

 

Gerf - you are really pimping this ride bro. You getting a commission?

LOL

Help me sell mine and I'll kick ya a couple hunert.

https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-...2f8d5f90f664ac

 

I was and am an old street racer. Every time I get in my 08 it reminds me of my youth and front engine rear drive v8 sedans. Much better motor and trans. Really enjoy the torquey drive.

 

This is a beautiful LS460.