I’m shopping 2020-2022 rx350s and would ideally like them to be L certified for which I’ll be extending out to probably 7 years coverage. I looked at one today and the interior was in pretty rough shape. Some stains and actual tears in leather in rear seats. Pretty obvious they had destructive kids. First, this struct me as odd since I always heard L certified had very high standards which included cosmetic items. On the other hand I have kids that will probably mess up interior anyways and can get this for a real good price and take advantage of unlimited mile bumper to bumper warranty. Any red flags here? Is the dealer blatantly ignoring certified checklist or was I mislead on quality of L certified vehicles?

this will be my first Lexus. Thanks all.
thin

 

My opinion is the condition of the interior might mirror the mechanical condition. I'd be careful.

 

In my opinion, you are putting too much emphasis on "Lexus Certified" and not enough on your own visual clues. L Certified is more of a marketing gimmick to raise the price than anything else. The warranty is good and may be worth it for your piece of mind but you will undoubtedly pay extra for it compared to buying a Lexus outside of the dealership on a very reliable car anyway. You really have no idea of the reliability of their inspection. I would still consider getting my own independent inspection. If the prior owner didn't use Lexus for their oil changes and maintenance, Lexus will have no idea about the maintenance on the car. The salesman will be hoping that you buy a further extended warranty because that is another big money maker for them on a very reliable car.

It may be a great car but Lexus Certified isn't magical and certainly isn't a free lunch but they are hoping that you think that.

 

I completely agree.

 

Good points all. Thanks. Probably what I needed to hear. Been sort of sold that l certified is bullet proof warranty but guess that doesn’t mean cars won’t have issues outside warranty.

 

It wasn't clear from your post, did you actually buy the car?

 

no I did not

 

I had a similar situation. The first CPO I looked at was rode hard and put away wet. It had a foot long scratch/gash in rear bumper and every rim had massive road rash. Dealer was like - we can fix it. I was like - if someone did this much damage to outside - I don't want to know what they did to engine etc. Luckily they had others.

 

I would have been concerned also. I was told by the Lexus dealer I go to that they only CPO cars they service and purchased at their dealership network.