I have a 99 RX300 4wd with 110,000 miles on the clock and it looks like it needs new shocks, brake and timing belt (none have been replaced before). Most places say inserts aren't available for the shocks and that I need to replace the entire strut (4). Does this sound about right to you folks on this board and, if so, hows much should I expect to pay for this?

Thanks

 

OK, so I got the bad news on the repair costs. Interestingly, for everything except the brakes, the Lexus dealer was comparable to Toyota and independents (!?) For those who are interested:

Lexus Toyota Indi

Shocks 1290 1250 1330
Brakes 600 520 320 (lexus pads)
Timing belt 560 400 600

So I'm going to get the brakes done at the independent (they do other work for me and I know they're pretty good) but for the big-ticket items, I'll probably stick with Lexus - then if anything goes wrong, I can say "look, you've serviced this car from new - make it right!"

 

Keep your papers, they are gold, or cost gold... for future reference toyota dealership would have done the service cheaper, or an independent garage..

 

Well, took the car in yesterday to the Lexus dealer. Had them change the oil/filter (almost $100 with Mobil1, out-the door!) Also had them check for oil gelling (some sludge under the filler cap) - they took off the valve cover and checked - no problem (and NO CHARGE); check the shock absorbers - no problem (no charge), check the brakes for wear/shuddering - replaced pads/hardware/turn rotors ($600 - a bit steep but, hey, it's a Lexus), replace a front side marker light bulb and socket ($75 - how the hell do you get at those side marker light in the bumper - the owner's manual just says "take it to your dealer"!) and check the belt's for some squeeking when cold (need replaced when I replace the timing belt).

So, all-in-all, I'm $750 poorer but the car is running smoothly and everything was checked out by an ACCOUNTABLE dealership.

I guess I'm happy!