Sneeper69

Hi, I'm new to the forums. I'm buying my brother's 2004 ES330 that has 195K miles on it, for my girlfriend. This car was my Dad's before my brother bought it, and he bought it new. I have to drive it back from Arizona to Colorado and the timing belt is just past the 2nd 90k mileage point. We expect to have to change the timing belt right away and ToyCare here in Colorado said they'd do it for $250 (assuming no other problems). I am a little worried about the drive back with that belt but hoping for the best.

Anyway, what are your thoughts about a car with this high of mileage? I know Toyota's are known for running forever but would like some opinions before I take the time to drive out there. I'll be paying $4,000 for it, which appears to be $1900 under blue book.

moonphase

If the timing belt has already been changed at the first 90k miles you will be fine for the trip. When you have the timing belt replaced, you should also replace: water pump, timing belt tensioner, timing belt idler pulleys, and if the crank shaft seal is leaking, it will need to be replaced also. It sounds like a good deal, but has it been maintained well? Personally I wouldn't purchase any newer vehicle with over 150,000 miles as the repair cost would likely far outweigh the initial low purchase price. "Cost of Ownership"