I'm looking at buying my first car and the CT200H is pretty much my final candidate. The one I have in mind is a 2012 CT200H With 194k miles on it for 6k.

I know to look out for the EGR system but, that seems to be the only real problem that gets discussed with the car. Is there anything else to look out for?

My plan is to get all the EGR things cleaned, change spark plugs, transaxle fluid, oil, and brake fluids.

I know that people say to get the face lifted one because it has the EGR problem solved but, it's a little out of my budget. 😅

 

I know someone with a 2014 that had EGR clogging and it gave misfires, so I definitely think the problem is prevalent across the entire 2011-2017 range, we just see it more with pre 2013 cars.

To answer your question- No. the EGR is probably the most discussed on this car, and there isn't much else to look for.
Has the car been serviced regularly? Has the EGR been serviced by the previous owner?
If I were you and on a budget, I would opt for a pre-2013 CT with lower mileage so there is less chance of any surprises (not that there will be a surprise out of the ordinary), but just for precautionary measures

 

Problem is, lower mileage ones are a few thousand more and that would take me months to save up for. I only make 11.50 an hour.

 

Problem is, lower mileage ones are a few thousand more and that would take me months to save up for. I only make 11.50 an hour.

 

Take the few extra months. There is no rush on a car that will last you 10+ years. The CT is not going to *look* or *feel* any older either, since its a one time model, one-time production car with no redesign. One of the only Lexus vehicles you can say this for...

It would just be a shame for you to get a high mileage vehicle and it happen to give you trouble down the road for improper maintenance.
Try to find one well maintained. It really is important.
And lower mileage, of course. Even one with 110-130k is good, just do the EGR cleaning when you get it. Well worth it. Most reputable independent toyota shops can do it for you for a decent price.

 

If you're in a warm climate and the car's already done 194k, i'd say for 6k, go for it. At the very least, if you can, remove the EGR pipe, cooler, and valve, and clean them manually and reinstall.

of course take the car for a nice test drive and make sure it doesn't misfire. insist on driving the car from a cold start in the morning.

 

It's really worth it. Great storage capacity, great drive feel and AMAZING MPG! We got ours for 8k with 130k miles on it. WORTH EVERY PENNY