Luscombe8A

This is my first post so go easy on me

I am planning on getting an LS460 this spring and have a few questions.
Budget is$35k. My preference is a RWD std with ML sound system. That's about it. I would consider same in an L. I know the ML system will include a Nav system and BT. Really all I need.

The goal is a daily driver with long term ownership. My commute is about 20 miles one way but will increase next year to 30-35 one way. I spend a fair amount of time in the car so comfort is desirable, not looking for a sport car. I figure about 15k miles/year. I'm currently driving an 08 Ford Taurus I bought new. Still going strong at 137k on the clock but time for an upgrade. We did purchase a new 2012 X5 3.5D with adaptive drive, touring, HUD, etc, options. We traded it in on a 2014 RX350 that my wife drives. We really like the RX350 but the short wheel base makes for a less luxurious ride for road trips. Maintenance costs on the X5 after 50k on the odometer took all the enjoyment out of ownership. It was a great road car with lots of low end torque, fun to drive but expensive to operate.

So I am looking for a sedan for me with a V8 performance, long wheel base and smooth ride. Based upon what I have read, the LS460 will achieve that. I think my budget of $35k will get me a nicer 2012 with 50k or less. I know the 2013 have more safety features but I really do not like the look of the raptor style grill on the 2013+ MY's. I have limited my selection to 2011-2012.

I am curious about the air suspension issues. I know the sensors and other parts will need to be serviced and replaced at some time and that can be very expensive. Can this system be swapped out for a conventional spring and strut system? That might be a reasonable option rather than full replacement of all air components.

Additionally, will a Route66 extended warranty cover the repairs for the air suspension? That insurance is only $1,500 so seems like a great buy.

Is there any advantage in having my local dealer find a 2012 LS460 for me through their dealership network or am I dreaming? I am ok with paying a little more for that service but can also do it myself.

Thanks in advance. I am looking froward to an active involvement in this forum.

Gary

Dave144239

You won't need to spend $35k. I just bought a mint 2011 AWD with ML/Nav and 52k miles for $26k from a Lexus dealer. The nicest 2012s I've seen have been advertised at under $34k, and I doubt they're selling for that much.

The air suspension can be swapped out when it fails. I stayed away from it, but your best bet is to test drive cars with and without air suspension to see if you really need it.

I kept an eye on CarGurus.com and Autotrader.com, with email alerts for price changes and new listings.

As for warranty, I don't know anything about Route66, but search the Lexus site for CPO cars, just in case there are any near you. Here's a 2012 that popped up as a CPO near me - http://www.lexus.com/lcertified/sear...CL5EF2C5014552

TXLS430

I'm also in the market for 2011-2013. $35K will easily put you in the 2012 range. I have seen several 2012 CPO for $30k.

dthouston

I bought a 2012 LS460L AWD in Houston in Feb 2017 with ~50K miles for around $30K

It's my third LS... all bought used. Had a 1990 that I drove for 23 years and 310K miles. Only major mechanical issue was transmission rebuild @ ~ 240K miles. Sold it to a college kid who's still driving it.

Then had a 1999 LS that I drove for 16 years and 290K miles ( with a transmission rebuild @ ~220K miles). Sold it to the repair shop who maintained it.

The 2012 LS460L is awesome. But wish it didn't have AWD - it has the erratic "coast-down" problem that many others have noted, and 37 less horsepower.

But I like the extra inches of the "L" model - especially the better ride over freeway undulations.

R Z

No ML. I'd personally pass.

Dave144239

It was just an example, to show that there are some CPO 2012s out there.

Chaos236

iTrader: (1)

ML should be a "must have"