Need recommendations if you’d buy this vehicle or pass and some key insights.

I stumbled across this listed by an auctioneer (representing a client).

It’s a 2005 RX 330 and has 295,500kms (183,615 miles) and from the looks of it, I can’t say much about it. There are no service records available ATM but the auctioneer mentioned it is a very clean car for its mileage and “pride of ownership reflects for its age”.

They pointed out that the only flaw in this car is cracks around the dash. Exterior wise, the car looks decent enough for my intended use which is winter driving and using it more so as a grocery getter.

Bit of an intro, i’m only into BMWs and have owned 4 since I’ve ever held my license. Currently I have a 2019 440i with the alleged “almighty” B58 engine that i’m planning to send to the moon lol. And a 2021 X5 40i again with the B58TU engine (just a revised version of it). My X5 is very low kms (~16,200kms) and I plan on keeping it that way, if not it’ll be my wife’s new daily and we’ll sell our CX-5.

At that mileage what would you fine folks recommend? How are these V6s? Are they as bulletproof as forums claim? Timing chains, stem seals etc. do they hold up well? I’m assuming the usual plugs, coils, battery, alternator would be something I’d have to address right away?

I’m hoping the transmission fluid was replaced sometime. Speaking of things underneath the vehicle, i’m assuming this is an AWD vehicle? I read somewhere that on the shifter if it says 4-D & 2-L then it’s an AWD? Would need more insights on that. Which also means I’d have to change transfer case and diff fluids for it as well.

As for the price, they have listed it for $6,000cad but that’s the list price. You are free to negotiate as the auctioneer will take your “price” to the seller and will negotiate on your behalf.

My understanding is that if a car has lasted 290k kms it’ll go another 290 if “maintained right”. I’d also love to understand more about the engine as I’m yet to do my preliminary research.

Attached pics available as for now. Will try to get the VIN shortly.

 

I'd run a car fax to see how many owners, see if the mileage jives, see if it's had accidents (Carfax is not always accurate but it is a great starting point)

What an actioneer or used car lot says aobut their product means less than nothing they have zero clue as to who owned it, how it was maintained, what it needs they will say anything that helps a sale yu=ou need qualified eys on it do not be suckered in by worthless pics run a Carfax and try to get a mechanic there to give it a PPI

Can you go inspect the car or even better have it inspected? Things to look for would be rust underneath... anything more than surface rust walk away Tyota LExus had a real problem with rust in those years

IF no rust, no leaks, no acccidents, not salvaged,not many owners no other red flags $6000 US is a fair price

At that mleage like ost cars there area number of things that should be addressed not sure how much DIY you do but the car is excellent when taken care of. Do note though like your X5 the MPG sucks expect about 20-22 mpg

Cracks in the dash.. sadly that is very normal anda known flaw mine has them as well. If yu're sharp and remove the dash yourlf it is a couple hundreds bucks to have a shop redo it if you opt for a new one from Lexus you're looking at @$2000 or more fromm Lexus to have them do it

Changing trans fluid is easier and quicker than changing the engine oil I'd recommend changing it every oil change for at least times as when you drain it you only get a small amount out

Those pics conveniently do nothing to tell you the condition and likely reliability of the car, ask for close-ups of the motor, radiator, lots from underside

Open the hood look for oil leakage, take a good look at the radiator both sides front and rear these often go at 100K miles if OEM far less if aftermarket

2005 has a timing belt that needs replacing every 100K miles might as well do thermostat and water pump then too

I've owned M3 covertibles (2) and lots of drive time n an X5, I would not get another BMW.FWIW, none were any problems maintenance-wise but highly uninspiring driving. Lexus is known for excellent quality and reliability but like every car it depends on how it is taken care of.

AWD - you could get the VIN and email Toyota they'll tell you OR you could look to see if it has axles both front and rear.