shiznewski

I'm looking to get my first GS300. I have been looking for about 2 months because I only want black on black. I have found a 98 gs and it is in real good condition. It has 173k on it and i'm not sure if thats too much. I've never owned lexus before, i've always had acura and i've have two of them over 200k both running with no problems. Is it normal for lexus to make it past 200k with little to no problems if taken care of? Does the trans or motor crap out around the 200k mark? Thanks for any help guys. I'd like to give this guy an answer in the next day or two.

maximus54

iTrader: (4)

Like always it depends on how well the car was maintained. Check the service records. Make sure timing belt/90K service was done every 90K. If everything is up to date there is no reason why you couldn't go to 300K. If you do make the purchase it would be wise to change all fluids, check ball joints, and other suspension parts.

Measured

iTrader: (1)

Like any car you should check the history of it and have it checked out by a mechanic before you purchase, it is known as a pre vehicle inspection or a pre purchase inspection. Regardless of what it is called, just have it done. 200k for a well maintained Toyota isn't much at all and can go further if it stays maintained. Just be realistic as to what you consider routine repairs as folks tend to think having to replace parts that are normal wear and tear as "known issues".

How much is the person asking?

Dons98GS

The car has no problem getting getting over 300k, but like Measured & Max said get as much previous maintnance info on the car as you can. But if its a good price, looks & runs good ill say go for it. I just bought my gs with 197k & it runs just as well as my dad's with 117k. Also be ready for a t-belt change in the near future if it hasnt been changed. If you mind me asking whats the price for it?

shiznewski

The price is $5,000. Its a little above the edmunds value. I may try to bring him down a bit more we started at 5,500. Do you guys think thats a good price? I am taking my mechanic with me today. He is actually one of my best friends and has worked at his dads auto shop for 12 years.

target08

Assuming its in pretty good shape inside and out that's a great deal, you'll get 300k out of the motor and trans.
Range of prices within the US per Autotrader.com

Highest Price:$12,900

Lowest Price:$5,900

Average Price:$8,056

Doneve79

I dont know how clean (paint, interior, engine & trany) & well maintain it is... but my personal preference would be for 01 & up. You hv a lil more benefits & gadgets in the 01 & up model vs the 98 although its the same body style. Also, @ 173k...is above the neck specialy not knowing the history & the type of driver he is. So, its a risk.

goodluck!

werewolf

Depends on local supply and how long you can shop. 180k miles means at least 13-14k miles a year. Without perfect records, that would worry me

Personally, I would look for a 90-110k mile car (timing belt done, starter done, ball joints done at least once) for $6-8k. Check edmunds and NADA for pricing info

With perfect maintanence, I would target 250-300k out of the engine, 150-200k out of the tranny before major repair.

At 180k, I would expect suspension repairs / issue IMHO