kranman

I'm a new member of CL and a soon to be owner of of a RX and that is the dilema. Trying to choose between a 2009 RX350 with 53K in excellent condition vs. a 2010 RX450h with 99k in pristine condition. Both can be bought for $17000. I love the miles on the 2009 but absolutely love the changes and upgrades on the 2010 model.. I am a bit concerned about the hybrid battery replacement issue but I just discovered that Colorado is now a "green" state so does this car qualify for the extended warranty on the battery? Any input would be much appreciated.

salimshah

After the brand issue, [which just helps you get comfortable with the odds], the difference will be due to the actual machines and how they have been taken care of. I term them as intrinsic and care]. I am in the process of moving reluctantly from 99 RX to 2011 450H. [reluctantly because I was pretty happy with my 99 RX .. and wanted to get to 1 million miles]. I am happy with the purchase though.

My advice:
1. Drive and compare ... check the features that you miss or use. The two vehicles drive and feel different.
2. Go over the service history .. reported problems and maintenance.
3. Cost of maintenance and use
4. Confront buyers remorse issues before the purchase ,,, like I should have bought a newer model

Last of all be patient in picking the right vehicle. Dont be in a time bind .. like must purchase march 31 etc.

Salim

Droid13

If they are both in great shape, buy based on what you want, not based on what you fear. Either one could break down tomorrow, or run for another 10 years problem free.

F250

The 2010 has a timing chain where the '09 still has a timing belt which will need to be changed periodically.

I bought our 2010 RXh (72K miles) last August and don't regret it for a minute. The ONLY regret I have is that the '13's were not in my pre-chosen budget range.

SkiMe

I think the 2009 RX350 "non-hybrid" uses a timing chain. The equivalent year hybrid "RX400h" has a timing belt.

We just made the switch from 07' to 13'.....the newer one does feel more luxurious for sure. My wife really does like it, but she definitely did look for a lower mileage 400h and would of gotten another one with 100k less miles.

thomas1

Yes the 09 is absolutely a timing chain beast. I would get the Hybrid...just my two cents.

Glasgow

For my tuppenceworth, from Scotland at that where fuel is eye wateringly expensive, I would go the hybrid route, fabulous proven technology. Have never heard of a hybrid iisse in the UK. Nice little bonuses like almost everlasting discs and pads. I have 68000 miles on original discs and pads and only showing 40% wear! Fuel consumption is immeasurably better and fuel prices only go one way. Environmentally much better also.
Just my view FWIW. I know USA is a different kettle of fish. You'll be delighted whatever you choose. Enjoy

Ed

SkiMe

Or another alternative, find a lower mileage 2010 for a few thousand dollars more??

I will say, the hybrids (450h) are harder to find. We looked around for quite a bit in the COS/Denver area and could not find one to our satisfaction. Ended up finding one in TX with 50k on it (2013). Really like the upgrade from our 07' 400h.

I did see one that matches your description: 2010 with 99k in Lincoln. Very nice looking!

But also found this and looks to be very well maintained (Carfax history) and local it's whole life:
http://www.kunilexusofgreenwoodvilla...-CO/2955016033

kranman

SkiMe, the one you mentioned in Lincoln is one of the cars I am dealing on. Ironically, the other one is in Omaha. The prices in that area are much lower than Denver. I'm not surprised, if you spend any amount of time down South near the Tech Center they are all over the place. Thanks for your input though, I appreciate your due diligence.

kranman

Thank you all for your comments, I think I'm heading to Lincoln this weekend to buy the hybrid. It's a 7 hour road trip one way so you can see my interest in joining the Lexus Club.

SkiMe

Yea, we noticed they were just too high around here too. We ended up getting our down in Plano, TX. Saved us a good $4k-$5k. A little bit of a risk not seeing it all the way, but so far, it's been great!! We were pleasantly surprised once we got our eyes on it.

Good luck!

vlad_a

G'day, mate! 68K miles on original pads and disks? That's downright incredible!
That's what happens when roundabouts replace stop signs, LOL.

At 50K miles, my dealer informed me that I had only 3mm left on the pads.
I then did a full brake job, replacing all pads and disks, latter complements of 4 years of salt treatment.
Rears were completely worn out, down to the bone. Fronts, indeed, were 3mm.
Check your rears, mate! Don't be caught by a surprise.

OP, good call on the hybrid. They depreciate at a higher rate, yet you'll get a much better vehicle.
On top, you'll be one generation up and that's a big improvement as well.

Cheers!