It's been a while since I've posted anything or even visited the forum. My 98 GS has been loaned out to my stepson for the past couple months and he just returned it this past week. I drive my Suburban to work so today was the first opportunity I've had to drive the Lex for a while.
I admit I had forgotten just how nice this car drives and the power it still has at 231k miles. There are a few things that need attention but none of them are major. Two door lock actuators quit on me (one 8 years ago, the other still works if the temp is right). The Nakamichi stereo screen has gone black but it still works (have a replacement unit in the basement). Seam in the drivers seat came undone. (That's the ONLY issue with the interior). Radiator needs replaced. It's not leaking and the car doesn't run hot but man is it time to change it. 231k of being bombarded with road dirt and bugs have taken their toll on it. Ordered a new one tonight. Will go ahead and change out the hoses and complete drain of antifreeze when I replace it.
I bought the car in 07 (From a clublexus member) with 90k on the clock. Since then I've done the following:
New front bumper original was badly pitted
Clear bra
Got rid of poly bushings that squeaked constantly. Went back with stock
New struts
left front brake caliper
New rotors/brakes 1 time
2 timing belt services
2 alternators
One set of spark plugs
replaced control arms
replaced headlights in 08. Had them clear bra'd as well
tinted windows
one starter
replaced windshield
I do an oil analysis once a year. Looks like engine is doing fine and no high wear indicators. (I use Mobil1)
Overall not bad. Almost everything was either done for vanity or a regular maintenance/wear item. Considering everything this car has experienced a very low cost of ownership.
I'm keeping it til at least 300k, which at the rate I'm driving it could be another 10 years.
Still looks good too! Oh, my top speed according to my Garmin was not quite a year ago. 127mph, but I was running snow tires. Could've been higher but I would have missed my exit.

 

On a side note. My stepson was without a car and has been looking ever since he picked up my Lex. He would call me and ask me about a car he was considering and
made one comment the last time he called about a car that I took as a compliment. He said "I'm sorry it is taking so long for me to find a car but I'm looking at cars that are 8 to 10 years newer than your GS and with 50-75 thousand fewer miles and none of them look as nice or drive as nice."
My reply? "It's a Lexus. If you buy quality, maintain it, it will last longer than you need it to." I really believe that and I practice it whether it be a lawn mower (my Honda mower was built in 1989), hand tools or appliances. Not that I can always afford top shelf but I buy the best I can afford and do my best to get it to outlive its' projected lifespan.
JimA

 

Glad you got your car back. Don't be surprised when he pulls up in a Lexus and say "check out my new car".

 

You would never know your car has 231k miles.. Certainly a clean GS..

 

Actually he bought a Infinity G35x with 176k 2 owner for $3500. Not bad but I'd shy away from infinity's. Personal choice.

JimA

 

Very similar to my '99 GS400...227,000 miles and hardly a problem. I purchased it in '99 and have every maintenance record going back 18 years (including 2 timing belt changes). Other than tires, brakes and oil changes this car just runs. It still looks current and drives better than most cars on the road today. And yes, it is still very, very fast! It is my daily driver and I will never sell it.



Btw, I recently helped my brother-in-law purchase a one owner '98 GS300 with get this, 282,000 miles about 6 months ago for $3k. It was dealer maintained and in excellent condition.To date he has 288,000 miles and his only problem was a battery.