HouseOfToy

Is there any way that this 2001 RX300 would be a good move? Could the transmission that was put in there really last the life of the vehicle? Is it likely?

salimshah

It is 17 yr old vehicle ... the manufacturer expects 5 year of trouble free service. Our expectations have moved .. but in late 1990s 100k mile was considered the lifetime in miles and 10yrs in time was considered lifetime.

In fairness, no one can predict. You can put up a lot more cash and get a certified pre-owned. Every thing else is bit of risk taking. You can have the vehicle inspected [what ever it is worth].

Based on your other posts, it seems your mind is not set on this vehicle or even model. You can pass till you find the right one.

Salim

trhs75

I agree you can't know for sure, but I would expect a remanufactured transmission (not "rebuilt") to provide years and many, many miles of service.

HouseOfToy

Found out some more info. Transmission was rescued from a salvage yard and has 40,000 miles on it. So it's neither remanufactured nor rebuilt - just an original transmission with low miles. Yay or nay?

I looked into getting a loan for the Salvage Title vehicles and it looks like I'll be paying a significantly higher interest rate around 7% versus the 3.5% on a clean title. So over the course of the loan that adds between $900-$2,000 depending on the price of the vehicle. The 2001 RX300 would be a 3.5% interest rate and would cost me roughly $360 in interest over the course of five years with a monthly payment of $64.

Really leaning towards the 2001, I guess if it goes, that sucks, but if it doesn't, then I got a really good deal on a vehicle that I want. Does anyone have any opinions on the new transmission fact?

trhs75

There's some risk with an unknown maintenance and driving history, I suppose, but an RX is not the kind of vehicle most people tend to abuse -- unlike a Camaro, for example. It wouldn't have been overdue for any service. I'd be inclined to go for it. Any kind of warranty on the tranny from the supplier?

salimshah

"Salvaged Title"

Tread that water carefully. If it has been flooded, walk away as you would be chasing electrical problems aglore.

If you are looking at a bargain .. this forum will be of little use to you ... as you are doing your risk benefit and members are in the dark.

Folks switch vehicles when
a) they get tired of it
b) need to put more money than its value (granted perceived mostly)
c) They have been through an accident.

Salvaged vehicle has been paid off [zero value].

Salim