I just won an auction on ebay for a '92 SC400 with 74k miles on it. I'm paying $7300. The dealer said it's in great running condition. I'm at work right now but I plan on picking it up later today or sometime this week. After I get it, should I bring it to a mechanic to get it checked out? How much would this cost me?

The title came out clean according to autocheck.com. I would like to do most of the servicing myself if I can but I'm not too knowledgable with cars. I hope to learn as I go with the service manual. That brings me to my next question. Should I buy the service manual? If so, where can I find one? If not, where can I find tutorials to help me work on my car? What needs to be done right after I get the car? Is there a FAQ for ppl like me besides the one on intelexual?

Thanks for any info/guidance ... I appreciate it!

 

Some of the Lexus dealers offer full diagnostic service which will take half day with full detailed report. It is around $150. Need to make an appointment if you want it done.

 

I only recently stumbled upon this deal. There was like 24 hours left in the auction so I had set up a snipe on my home computer to bid 30 seconds before the auction closes to avoid a price war with the other bidders.

So I didn't have time to go check out the car. The pictures really don't tell me a lot but I'm hoping I won't get screwed since it's a dealership.

So any advice on doing maintenance on my own? Also, is the Lexus diagnostic worth the $150 if my car seems to be running in good condition?

Thanks again.

 

If the car runs fine when you picked up, I would just do some maintenance and check out the common problems listed on intelletual site.

 

What do you mean exactly by some maintenance? Sorry, I'm fairly new to all this. Also, would you buy a service manual? I also have Auto repair for dummies but I hear it's not that great of a book. I have to start somewhere I guess ...

 

http://www.lexus-parts.com/

 

you paid too much

 

The KBB was $7625 ... Did I really pay too much? Only 73-74K mileage.
I'm paying 7300 which is 5% off the KBB. Enlighten me on why you think I paid too much.

 

Kelley Blue Book Values are not true values of cars. You may have been able to get it for less, but don't worry about that. What's done is done. Now focus on picking it up and getting it checked out as soon as possible. Getting it checked it is not an option IMO. Since you are buying it from a dealer that gives you certain legal rights depending on your state. If anything major shows up on the inspection then the dealer may be obligated to work with you on it. With 74k on the clock it's a good bet that the car is pretty sound mechanically. Check out the search link and use it a lot for answers to any questions that may come up. Good luck with your new ride.

 

Major tuneup: spark plugs & wire, rotors, distributor cap, (recommended by Lexus on 60K miles)
Engine, Transmission, differential oil change (maybe flush depends on the oil condition)
check the brake pads and tires

Timing belt is due on 80K miles (recommended by Lexus, maybe fine until 100K). Since it is 92 (old) I would consider it. While changing the timing belt, it is good to replace water pump, etc (search about the timing belt, you will find tons of info)

I also would check power steering pump leakage since it is common problem for older SCs.

I do not have a service manual (about $200). You can find all the tech note (How to do) above maintenance in this forum.(if you search )

Start with these. You can always buy a service manual when you became an expert or need more information about the car.