macmal11

Hey Folks,
I have in my sights a 2008 GS 350 with 96K miles. Took the car for a pre-purchase inspection which returned a cracked Serpentine belt but moreso concerning a clear alignment issue. The mechanic explained the wheel toe is even but it appears the passenger side front wheel is slightly behind the driver side wheel. This very likely due to some kind of accident. We noticed the hood had been removed and new paint job near that passenger side strust. The mechanic explained the issue may not be fixed with a simple alignment, and that I may need lower control arm(s), and additional work and parts $$$. Aside from this, the mechanic explained the car the car was in good shape.

My question - is this issue concerning enough to prevent you from buying a car? I've never owned a Lexus and so I could use some guidance on this and new ownership.

Byprodrive

iTrader: (1)

Short answer is yes definetly, I would make the seller show you all documents connected to the damage & the cause & repairs. FYI it maybe a good deal but it will take some research to prove that before you buy. I bought my 2015 GS off E-bay, It has a salvage title that voids the factory warranty, but I saved alot & it's the color I wanted, which is hard to find.

Och

iTrader: (3)

Stay away from it, alignment issues after an accident can be very hard to fix, especially if the subframe is damaged.

LeX2K

Run away and don't look back.

macmal11

I bought the car! No subframe damage. Alignment corrected for $115.

Byprodrive

iTrader: (1)

Never say never, hope it's a good deal/car.

tex2670

After asking the question, and getting unanimous responses NOT to do it. Why even ask?
(Welcome to CL)

macmal11

Thanks. At the time I posed this question, I did not buy the car. I gave it 2 days, and then pulled the trigger.

tex2670

Right:
OP: "Hey should I buy this car?"
CL: "Hell no."
OP: "Well, I don't care what you say; I'm doing it anyway."

Best of luck with your new car.