4rings

Im considering purchase of a 97 Es300 with 210k miles on it.. hes the 2nd owner bought it with 30k on it years ago.. and its been kept up.. do the 97's have an immobilizer with the key or w/e lexus calls it? i ask this becuase i want to upgrade the key to the 00+ one piece key, i just need to know what model key pad to get to have it work for the 97 ES.. and i was thinking about upgrading the lights in the gauge cluster to new ones to make them brighter idk if this is possible.. or even just the arrow blinkers to leds? i was also wondering what things i should look for when i go to look at it? thanks guys!

jem1660

Not sure about the key replacement. For the gauge clusters, there are several VERY good posts on here about DIY cluster replacement do a simple search--I always use Advanced > key words > inside the ES300/330 forum.

When you go look at it, look less at cosmetics and more under the hood for leaks, smells, damage. Look for frame damage also, and rust. If you're stickler about leather and interior bells and whistles, check out all of these. But my #1 suggestion is get a PPI (pre-purchase inspection) done, preferably by Lexus. I wasn't able to get the PPI done by Lexus because I found mine out in the country, but took it to nearest Toyota--worth every penny. They'll let you know if it's a sound car or not. Good luck!

JM