sll0037

Hi Everyone!

It's my first post here and hopefully the first step in owning an IS-F. I've done quite a bit of reading already, but it seems I've got a lot to learn.

I've been on the prowl for a "new" car and I've begun to consider a used IS-F. I'm also considering a G37 IPL and a used 2008+ M3.

What sort of things should I look for in a used 08/09 IS-F?

Any known issues? Any IS-F "quirks" I should be aware of?

Must have Options?

Thoughts on CPO?

I've read the 09 was updated with the gloss black trim pieces around the Nav, but are there any other important difference?

Additionally, I think the 2010 was updated with an LSD, but those are out of my price range at the moment.

This car will be primarily a daily driver or weekend car, but likely will not see heavy track time, if any. I simply want a nice, fast, reliable car I can enjoy for a long time.

Hopefully with your help I'll be part of the IS-F family soon.

Sal

avgj0F

iTrader: (2)

Figure out true costs to include gas, insurance, wear & tear expenses. That said, there isn't any major mechanical issues beside few Lexus Service Bulletin for brakes squealing, rear mirror vibration, and gas pedal. Other than that, ust make sure maintenance is up to date. Tires and brakes have plenty of meats left, inside and out . They ain't cheap to replace!

sll0037

I just got through reading about the rear mirror vibration issues, so I know to lookout for that on any test drives.

I've also ready about some wear issues with tires and the factory alignment, so that's a bit worrisome. Like I said, I don't plan on beating up on the car, so I'd hope to get decent mileage from the tires.

I found a 2008 USB IS-F w/ Navigation, 22,000 miles listed at a dealership for $43k. Does that sound like a reasonable price. According to CarFax, it's coming off a lease so I'm guessing lease buyout was $33k-$34k?

BuffGS

Sounds like a real price. As a comparison point, I recently bought a 08 ISF with 25 K miles for $42K in Northern VA. From my experience so far, check the subwoofer in the rear deck to see if it is blown. Also if the car has the Ipod adapter installed (in the glove box) check to see if it works (mine didn't).

digger08

iTrader: (1)

Check the water pump.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...p-leaking.html

sll0037

It sold!

No worries though. I've already sourced roughly 5 more within a reasonable distance, some local.

All 08's with 20k-25k miles and in similar condition.

Average price is $44k.

What should I be offering given they are not at Lexus dealerships or CPO's?

CalitriSC

iTrader: (13)

Insurance will most likely be cheaper on the IS-F than the M3. It was when I checked back before buying my F. Also the interior on the F is much nicer than the M3 or G37 IMO. Good luck with your search. I love my 08, was the best choice for sure.

DCoolBeans

The G is def the slowest of those 2 cars listed. I test drove it and it felt...blah. I'm a short guy, only 5'7", and my head touches the rear glass when I sat in the back.

The F imo looks way nicer on the inside than the M. The M looks dated as if it were still in the 80's. The G has way to many plastic cheap pieces in the interior.

Reliable car= F...its a toyota

sll0037

I drove my first ISF today and I'm convinced it'll be my next car.

Now I just have to find and negotiate a price on the right one. Here are my options.

2008 ISF
Ultrasonic Blue/Black
20,000 Miles
$43,900

2008 ISF
Matador Red/Black
15,000 Miles
$43,900

2008 ISF
Mercury Metallic/Black
29,000 Miles
$40,900

2009 ISF (Private Party)
Mercury Metallic/Black
17,000 Miles
$44,000

2008 ISF (Private Party)
Mercury Metallic/Black
32,000 Miles
$39,900

I'd like to end up in the upper $30k's on the final sale price, excluding taxes, title, etc. Is that reasonable on the cars listed?

Thanks for all the help everyone. I'm getting excited but it seems the hardest part is upon me.

Linkseal

iTrader: (5)

^2010 has LSD, if you can find one is in mint. condition, go for it.

Or M3 4dr sedan if you can find a good one, even though I just hate M3 for some reason...

lobuxracer

iTrader: (2)

No, the 2009 does not have the Torsen diff. 2010 and later have the Torsen from the factory.

VtotheJ

iTrader: (2)

This couldn't be truer. Just replaced tires, cost a little over $1k. The car has 16.9 gal so filling up the tank could run you anywhere from $50-$65 depending on gas prices in your town... but bear in mind gas is used up quickly... about 260 - 290 mi per tank (for me atleast). Insurance is reasonable, since it is a sedan. My brakes squeal rarely, and my rear mirror vibrates only when I play a song with ridiculous bass. The F is also notorious for drifting to the right (some 08 and 09 models), so if that is the case with yours, get it aligned and also get the front and rear subframe adjusted.

OP, I was in your shoes earlier this year and after getting the F, I couldn't be happier... I've sat in various BMW's and they just don't compare. The looks on the interior of the F is unbeatable, not to mention how comfortable the seats are. GL on your quest to find an ISF, it is one of the rarest sport sedans out there.

DCoolBeans

And let me tell you. It feels soo good hitting it hard coming out of the apex and not losing traction.

Any car in this category that run 19" tire/rims will be pricey to replace(with good tires). That goes for the same as most sedans have larger gas tanks. You should already know these things if your looking at these types of cars

Linkseal

iTrader: (5)

Oh, google fooled me on that found out MY09 JDM one has it...

To OP, see if you can find a 10' one...

sll0037

I'm decided on an ISF.

A 2010 is more than I'd like to spend, so I'm looking at 2008's and 2009's.

I was hoping to pick up the 2008 USB, but the dealer would not move one penny on the price. No big deal.

On to the next one...