It looks like I have an opportunity to purchase a 2001 Lexus RX300, AWD with 59,000 miles for less than $6,000. It was driven by a grand mother in Florida to the liquor store and church while mostly being parked in a garage. I'll need to check the maintenance records, but the grandson (friend of a friend) has stated that it is in great condition. Where should I get the pre purchase inspection done in Denver? I do not really want to pay dealer prices for the inspection. I understand there is some risk for an older car, and I am looking for good reliability. Consumer Reports does NOT go back to 2001, but in general, CR loves the Lexus RX Series. Would you buy it?

Any assistance is greatly appreciated.

As I continue to look through this forum this community is incredible by the way. I was a BMW enthusiast 10 years ago, and this is already starting to feel like a comparable community.

 

Absolutely not.
In fact, give me the name of the dealer so I can call him and tell him NOT to sell it to you.
How did you find this deal?
Douglas

 

Ok, I see, friend of a friend..

 

Ha. Good to know. So I assume this would be a risk that you would be comfortable with?

 

There's loads of great information on the FAQ thread concerning the problems (albeit, few) with the 1st Gen RX. We have many owners on here that absolutely love their cars. With that kind of mileage, no doubt the timing belt has not been done, but should be done due to it's age. There is a slight concern with oil consumption due to the design of the PCV valve, and that has been discussed thoroughly here.

Do your research and make sure the car has a good look-see by a decent mechanic. You mention not wanting to go to the dealership, but the money spent there, may reveal things a lesser mechanic might miss.

I'm sure the car is in exceptional condition, judging from the description you gave it, but it still is worth having it looked at by a 3rd party. Oh, and the price is in line for a car with that mileage, IMO...

 

very nice find if you are in the market. While there are low miles on the vehicle, check for signs of oil leaks that indicate deterioration of any seals due to aging. In the event of any leakage from the rear valve cover, i would take the opportunity to replace it with the latest version when doing gasket replacement. If it is an early 01 equipped with a plastic push on pcv valve, the upgrade would be significantly better which utilizes a metal pcv. I would estimate a timing belt change and fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluids) are all that is needed to get it freshened up for many more miles of reliability.

 

Thanks for all the advice. We have the test drive scheduled for Sunday afternoon. I'll let you know how it goes.

Would you think this maintenance shop in Denver would be a good place to get it checked out? Their reviews are outstanding.

https://www.yelp.com/biz/toyexus-denver

 

Is the vehicle in Florida or Colorado?

Salim

 

They look great except they're closed on Sundays...

 

Vehicle is in Colorado