Currently in Canada. Need a reliable car for a year that I'll be able to bring to the US from Canada and then sell.

Looking at two cars:

No 1. 2010 Mazda 3 hatchback with 90,000 kilometres (55,000 miles). $5000 CAD.

One owner, local car. No accidents, no rust. Only issue is passenger window motor must be replaced. Otherwise, I don't think there are any other issues with it.

No 2. 2002 Lexus RX 300 with 240,000 kilometres (150,000 miles). $3900 CAD.

I know this is a lot of KM, but Lexus cars are supposedly bulletproof. Rear brakes need to be done though. And apparently the “service engine” light has stayed on intermittently for the last six years, ever since Lexus changed vacuum sensors. The light comes on, but the codes are apparently meaningless and the car runs fine. The mechanic said not to worry, according to the owner.

There is apparently also something that drains the battery if the car sits unused for 2-3 weeks, so the owner installed a switch to disconnect the battery if he is away for long periods. When it reconnects, even after a long period, the battery is fine.

Thoughts? I strongly prefer the Lexus from a comfort/aesthetic standpoint, but the high KM worries me a bit even if they're really well built cars. Also, the battery issue. Does that indicate something is wrong with the actual battery (if so, how much $$ to replace), or some other component? It's concerning for sure.

Keep in mind I'll need to be able to sell it (hopefully easily) in Florida about a year from now. I'll get a pre-purchase inspection for either.

 

Sounds like that RX300 is going to be a money pit. I'd steer clear. The 3 is a totally different car, so you're comparing apples to oranges. Can't help you there.

 

Don’t know much about Mazda products, so I cannot help you on that one. Your looking at one of the last truly great Toyota products.I enjoy my RX300, but as with any used vehicle, it needed work when I got it. Timing belt, rear valve cover gasket, etc. I do not like the idea of the switch used to disconnect the battery. Why not use a battery trickle charger? That’s what they are made for. Also, what are the codes stored in the ECM? I never like hearing the words, “don’t worry about it” used to describe a check engine light. That’s usually when I get concerned! There are many reports of transmission problems with the 99-03 model years and oil sludge issues as well. The fuel mileage is not good either. As I stated, I like my 2000 model. It’s quick (2WD), roomy, quiet, and comfortable. Having a PPI is a good place to start. In the end, it’s only a $3,000 USD car and I would anticipate having to do upkeep and maintenance. No one sells a car because they love it. They are selling it because A) they are tired of fooling with it and/or it is worn out, B) it needs something and they don’t want to spent the $ to fix it, or C) they are in jail and need bail money😊!. Okay, maybe they need to pay their taxes!! Keep us updated and good luck. This is the best car forum on the net and anything you want to know about the RX300 is right here!!!

 

I love both the RX300's we have, but I'd steer clear of buying one in 2020 that's that well used, especially online. Just my perspective -- good luck!!

 

Never buy a vehicle with Check engine light ON or tampered emission wiring. If any is bold enough to buy a vehicle with the CEL ON, they should not be asking for advice.

One can get a bargain when major service(s) have not been performed or are imminent. If maintenance has been neglected, a fine make/model would become unreliable.

I am unaware of cross border vehicle sales, so no comments on that part. Within USA, there are some hurdles selling/buying across state lines.

Salim

 

If transmission is original, stay away.

 

I have 312,000 miles on original engine and transmission

 

If both were immaculate i would want the Rx300. I would be much happier with the rx300 over mazda 3.
Are you a car person or A to B person? Buy the Rx300 If not an SP. As mentioned transmission will need regular maintenance and likely on way out at 240,000kms.

 

Are you keeping up maintenance on both or just having a run of luck?

 

It's a 1999 so both I guess. It's still my daily driver, starts and runs very well.
ABS has been out for years. Once of these days I will replace the sway bar bushings in the rear, annoying clunking sound.
Timing belt is due, I've been debating it.
It has been a great car mechanically and cosmetically but it has to die sometime

 

Go with the mazda! My 2011 has 150k miles and it's running great.

 

With that switch in place it wipes all code memory every time it's turned off so you would never know if it has other issues like a failed catalytic converter.