Lexus lx470 dilemma- help

[Mpl1978]

Yesterday I bought a one owner 130k miles ‘05 lx470 for 15k. I can return it w in 5 days. I took it to a Toyota/Lexus independent shop specialist for an inspection. The inspection revealed a leaking radiator, cracked serpentine belt, timing belt (no sticker indicating replacement), some front axle.......to the tune of 3750.00

just so happened while I was there I noticed an ‘04 lx470 with a for sale sign. I inquired, they said it was the owners wife’s car that he was selling. It has 240k, it has more cosmetic issues than the one above, but says it needs absolutely nothing. He has owned it and maintained it for 10 years. He wants 6800.00

What should I do, invest another 3500 in the one I bought for 15k that has 130k miles or buy the mechanics wife’s ride that has 240k miles for 6800?

 

[Izzy1]

Depending where you are from, the 04 seems the better deal. I would return the 05, or get the price down.

 

[99Yota]

Yesterday I bought a one owner 130k miles ‘05 lx470 for 15k. I can return it w in 5 days. I took it to a Toyota/Lexus independent shop specialist for an inspection. The inspection revealed a leaking radiator, cracked serpentine belt, timing belt (no sticker indicating replacement), some front axle.......to the tune of 3750.00

just so happened while I was there I noticed an ‘04 lx470 with a for sale sign. I inquired, they said it was the owners wife’s car that he was selling. It has 240k, it has more cosmetic issues than the one above, but says it needs absolutely nothing. He has owned it and maintained it for 10 years. He wants 6800.00

What should I do, invest another 3500 in the one I bought for 15k that has 130k miles or buy the mechanics wife’s ride that has 240k miles for 6800?

Function or glitz?

Assuming the mechanic has done preventive maintenance on the higher mileage unit such as:
- flush brake fluid every couple of years
- flush trans once or twice
- changed water pump and timing belt (about $1,100 @ lexus dealer)

I think you are far, far ahead getting the higher mileage unit.

Regardless of how tired it may look, mechanically it should be able to run another 100K. For about $1k, you should be able to make a marked difference in appearance such as:
- Polish headlights
- Repaint wheels
- Tires

With the money you saved, you could even throw in some upgrades like a winch bumper, RTT, sliders and have a really nice looking, reliable vehicle (and still come out thousands ahead) for years to come. Early 2000 Lexus vehicle are remarkably easy to work on and in my opinion, worth preserving for the simple fact that you get legendary reliability and a quiet ride at a really great price.

 

[Mpl1978]

I think that is sound advice. I have always heard that mileage is less important than Proper maintenance.

 

[Mpl1978]

Well, I returned it and man it was easier than returning a pair of shoes. I drove the one w 240k miles and it drove great. The belt was changed about 30k miles ago as well. For some reason, a vehicle w that miles just scares me, but for 6800 I might give it a go. If I wasn’t scared, there is a nice 2010 lr3 w 90k miles for 12k. Man, I’m confused

 

[ih8philly]

Where'd you buy it that allowed returns so easily?

 

[Mpl1978]

AutoNation Nissan. All AutoNation stores have a 5 day return policy

 

[wolfcw1]

Do some searching. Plenty of instances of 450-500k 100s with proper maintenance.

 

[dfwerdoc]

Yesterday I bought a one owner 130k miles ‘05 lx470 for 15k. I can return it w in 5 days. I took it to a Toyota/Lexus independent shop specialist for an inspection. The inspection revealed a leaking radiator, cracked serpentine belt, timing belt (no sticker indicating replacement), some front axle.......to the tune of 3750.00

just so happened while I was there I noticed an ‘04 lx470 with a for sale sign. I inquired, they said it was the owners wife’s car that he was selling. It has 240k, it has more cosmetic issues than the one above, but says it needs absolutely nothing. He has owned it and maintained it for 10 years. He wants 6800.00

What should I do, invest another 3500 in the one I bought for 15k that has 130k miles or buy the mechanics wife’s ride that has 240k miles for 6800?

Easy decision for me (I’ve owned two of these) I would get the higher mileage one.


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