I was asked to help my mother find a new (used) car and I decide to go with another Lexus. I purchased a 97LS400 two years ago and despite the cats burning out and a few other repairs, it has been the best ride. She (moms) is coming out of a 02 nissan sentra that just feel apart (literally) and I wanted her to feel comfortable, safe and proud of her newer car. I've been shopping around for three months and today came across a trade in at a dealer that offered everything we were looking for; price, mileage and condition. It's a 2000 Lexus ES300, 85k miles, garaged and lexus maintained. They are asking 8k (financed), I offered 5k cash and after willing and dealing, will offer the nissan for a trade-in (cross fingers they accept). I would like to know if anyone can offer any advice or for-warnings with this particular year and model? We are going to test drive it today so she can feel for her self how amazing these cars drive. Thank you in advance for your time and effort.

steedls400

 

At 85K, the car is due for the timing belt/water pump service. Check if it is not done, as this will cost you around $1K.

Good luck.

 

Thanks brucelee1, they ended up selling the es300 but we're still looking. We found a beautiful coach edition 2000 RX300 9/10 condition but sounds like it may need a new shift solenoid. Getting GEL w code P0765 and needs new blower motor but it has had its 100k Maintance done. Asking 5k...

 

You can find some wicked bargains on very nice used RX300s. If I was an SUV kind of guy, I would snap one up in a heartbeat.

Good luck.

 

Stay away if it needs a shift solenoid. That's just asking for trouble.

You can find a good running RX for $5-6k, don't settle for one that needs work. Come on over to the RX side of things and do a search on what to look for when buying one! We are friendly folks, I promise!

 

lol shift solenoid... They only range from 400$-850$ Each (depending which one)

 

So we we had the seller meet us at the shop I use for a once over and test drive. The CEL was on and it was estimated $5-600 in repairs. The seller decided to keep the RX. I found a The 2000 Avalon XLS, original owner, 58k miles, dealer serviced while under warranty and at the same shop I visit there after. Pristine condition in and out. Very happy even thought not exactly a Lexus. Will attach photos today