I have a 2001 RX300 AWD, all options available are on the truck. (we have discused this 4 years ago when I purchased it). Well its paid off. I am wondering if its a better investment to sell this (locally they are on dealer lots for 17-19k) and invest the money. Or to just keep it, I am wondering when it will start to drop in value again. I want to buy a newer RX to replace this.
THanks

 

How many miles do you have on it now?

 

90K, I purchased this from a fellow CL member back in 2003.
No navigation, chrome wheels, custom exhaust, all service records done at either toyota or lexus (I have all the records)-at their service interval suggestions. Use synthetic oil,
Silver with black leather

E

 

Well with that mileage and even with those options, you should be able to get a good price with it, maybe in the 14 to 16 range say as minimum. The 90K mark (because there is a big service job at that mileage point) is what I like to call a break-even point for most RX300 owners. You still have some good life in that vehicle before some issues could pop up, such as on suspension (casting my experience in Mexico aside). There is also a little of psychological aspect to selling it over 100K, but that goes for any vehicle. As I say, you probably are at an optimum point and could go just a little bit longer before I would have a concern about selling prices.

 

We just did the big service so that is all done. I agree over 100k people get "worried".
e

 

Selling to dealer (trading it in) now or later, will always get you $800 to $1500 less than what you can do on your own.

Look at the KBB or other sources to deermine the "price trend".

If you have already done the big service, you have spent your cash. I would be little concerned buying the vehicle right after the big service ... was there any bad news?? When some one spends the money they would normally keep it for another yr (10k+ miles).

If the vehicle would stay parked in the garage (or worse outside), then you should sell it. If you have a use for it then dont. If you are investement smart (or lucky ) then you can make the money grow. ... usually money smart people do not buy new cars [exception is when they run the vehicle to ground].

Hard decision ... good luck.

Salim

 

no problems yet,(knock on wood). The big service was just what was recommended by the dealer/owners manual. No problems found then. It is garaged and my wifes daily driver.

I agree, good investments are not new cars. I was thinking if I can sell this for $15k buy a used RX330 or RX350 off lease or something, then use the money to invest or maxout some retirement accounts we have.

?? hard decision

 

I was trying to trade my 2001 FWD with 55K to a dealer and the best I could get was 14.5, with sales tax savings it was 15.5 net to me. I figured I could dump it pretty quick for 16K but would it be worth 500 for the hassle.

I didn't trade because the deal on their car wasn't right but had it been I would have taken the 14.5.