KingNasGS4

iTrader: (22)

Ok I made another post earlier. I am looking to purchase a car from a dealership

a GS430 with 133K miles.

one owner. owned in Connecticut. car is CLEAN in and out.


BUT here's the thing, it has no records for timing belt on the lexus website when I went on there and entered the VIN number. matter of fact, I didnt see records since 65K miles, and I didnt see a timing belt replacement sticker under the hood in the picture.

sooo there is a LARGE possibility that the timing belt was never done...

Im trying to analyze if it possibly could have been done... and also trying to analyze what type of owners they were.


what do you guys think? should I take a risk on a car that possibly could have a broken timing belt and destroyed engine on my hands?


I mean I will do it as soon as I can but until then, it will be a risk correct?

Mr Jokster

iTrader: (8)

I dont know about the Toyota, but I've heard that when they go out on the Hondas, it takes the the whole valve train with it. Its not worth the chance. HOWEVER, good thing about your purchase is that its at a dealership. Use that as part of the haggle, tell them you'll take the car under the condition they replace the timing belt for you OR have them compensate the cost to replace it and do it yourself immediately after purchase. Just my 2 cents... In any event, put that on the table AFTER you've done all your haggling

a#'z

If that's the case of no timing belt, tell them to lower the price on the car, can cost up to a thousand at the dealer to do it, but since you're doing the timing belt, might as well do the water pump, save some money as well.

BossGS4

iTrader: (2)

Lexus uses interference engines ... meaning if the timing belt goes the pistons and valves all mash together. Translation you will either need new/reman'd heads OR a whole new longblock (if you bend the conrods).

A timing belt job should cost you between $800 - 1200 depending on if you go independent or dealer.

If they can't prove "without a doubt" that it's been done I would not take anything less than -$1000. If they say a dealer (Toyota or Lexus) but "lost the receipt" you can go to any Toy/Lex service department with the VIN and it should be in the computer/record system.

veritek

If it can't be verified 100% that the timing belt service was done, then I'd definitely negotiate that into the deal.

CPMD

iTrader: (2)

what he said