matts6887

At this point I just don’t know whether I should fix my current daily driver; a 07 rx350 with almost 122,000 on it; or look for something else and trade this one in. Reasons being; it requires too much work and $ imo. One thing is the transfer case is seeping fluid and it’s only a matter of time before it gets worse but the least expensive place I’ve found is still quoting me 1300 to take the case out and reseal it. Next; I now need front rotors and or pads replaced to the tune of 453.31! 3rd i need the spark plugs replaced to the tune of almost 600 bucks!!! What should I do here cause that adds up to a lot of money!!!

RXGS

iTrader: (2)

Trade it in, unless youre willing to learn how to DIY and at least do the brakes yourself.

N4wwt

It’s still cheaper than new car payments along with higher insurance payments! Fix these things and then your good for another 100k miles.

matts6887

Well yes and no. It depends on what brand u are looking at as a replacement and and what model. As for insurance well sometimes that is less instead of more

Lexuswiz

iTrader: (1)

For you, get rid of it, even if the car payments and insurance in the long run costs more than fixing these issues, you'll get something newer and more reliable. Get an Acura, Honda, BMW, Benz, Bentley, Lambo, whatever just commit to something.

For me though, I'd fix all of that as brake and spark plugs are not hard, $1300 for a transfer case reseal? I'd could slap in a whole rebuilt case for that much which will last me the life of the car.....

OG Member

iTrader: (1)

With the information you've provided, I find it difficult to provide you with an accurate assessment of next steps.

Here are a couple of additional questions, that if you have time, will help provide a more tailored response:

• What is the current 'trade-in' value of your '07 RX350?
• With $2500.00 being a rough est. of repair cost to your RX350, would the new vehicles total price be more or less?
  • Many times a vehicles value does not increase with repairs, as most buyers would want a vehicle that is close to 'turn-key' (meaning, no additional repairs required)
• When looking for a replacement, are you looking for a vehicle with warranty?
• What is your budget? Cash? Financing?
  • These impact more than just monetary points of view. Even though you might pay more, the 'peace of mind' could be worth the cost.

After scanning through some of your older threads, it appears this purchased as been more of a burden, and in your best interest it might be worth while to take the loss and move-on from the brand (Lexus) and model (RX).

Overall, any used vehicle purchase is a gamble and with a multitude of variables, it might be worth building rapport with a local auto group chapter and build some relationships with experienced folks who are familiar with all brands and models of vehicles.

Good luck in your decision!

swat1727

iTrader: (2)

It's a reliable car, I would fix everything. If you get a used car, there is no guarantee you won't need fixings. If you get a new car, you are paying for depreciation. Either way it will not "save " you money, even in the long run.

Now if you own a Ford, I would say sell it, but it's a Lexus. if you take care of it, it will last you a long time!

RXGS

iTrader: (2)

Honestly he should just trade it in and lease a corolla or Elantra, you can find them for like $160-200 a month with no money down.

For the trade in value, you could possibly walk away with a 3 year lease on a new compact/economy car if you play your cards right. Won’t be as nice, but it’ll be new with a warrantee and all it will cost you is the monthly. I know at trade in, looks matter more than anything else and they won’t knock you for spark plugs being due (probably don’t even know) and it’s unlikely they’ll notice the leak. At every dealer I’ve ever dealt with, they’ve started the car up, done a quick 30 second walk around, and that was it. At most they’ll drive it around the block, but that wouldn’t show a minor leak or spark plugs are do. Sure a lease will need maintence and upkeep, but it may be more in line with what you can afford.

Car is still new enough and has low-ish enough miles that it should bring a respectable trade in value.

matts6887

Well unfortunately for me I won’t be getting anything different as me and my parents just don’t have the funds to finance another vehicle. So for now I have to stick with what I have. I have noted to my dad since he’s the one helping with the loan on this one that it’s imperative that I get at least the brakes done as that’s a safety item. And the fact that if the plugs aren’t done in a reasonable amount of time it can burn out one or more coil packs which will lead to even more $ needed to spend. Hopefully at some point down the road I will have enough funds to get a different vehicle. Oh and the other thing is my credit score is crap. It sucks. And I can’t get approved for anything else because of it sadly

RXGS

iTrader: (2)

Brakes I suggest you learn about and change yourself, could cost you $80 with decent parts. Plugs is more involved and plenty of people wait, although not ideal. The leak, well that one is what it is.

matts6887

no way on the brakes as that’s something I don’t have experience with. Same with the plugs

daddiojigg

no way on the brakes as that’s something I don’t have experience with. Same with the plugs


Then i guess it looks like you're getting a shop to do it. Look for a good independent in your area. From what you tell us(family finances) , you've got two choices: suck it up and get it fixed or drive it into the (soon to be without repairs) ground. good luck.

matts6887

Well I definitely intend on getting it fixed it’s just a ? Of when.

05ls430518

iTrader: (1)

Get a civic

matts6887

sorry that’s not happening. I am not a car person. I don’t like being down low like that. I like being higher up and being able to see “more”.