ToooZeRo

Hey everyone! I am in the process of looking/purchasing 2008-2011 IS-F. I came from the G35Driver forms so I know the "Search" option should be utilized intensively before asking questions but I figure 1.) introduce myself to the community 2.) get a few suggestions on what to look out for 3.) understand the differences between the years '08-'11 or difference in packages that the IS-F offers.

I currently own a G35 and looking to upgrade to a Lexus IS-F. Budget is up to 40k so I am looking to purchase a used one, preferably white/black but starting to admire the blue.

As I am shopping around I was wondering if I can get some pointers as you guys (I am sure) have done plenty of research. Are there engine issues/certain damages I should look for pertaining to the IS-F?

I have looked at several online and a couple at dealerships and still am not completely sure on the different packages offered. I know fully loaded typically has everything but what are some of the additional features? I couldn't tell the difference. Also I prefer one with OEM NAVI system so making sure if the NAVI is worth it? The G's NAVI System is pretty much mediocre to me. Also what are the differences in exterior from '08 to '11?

Thank you all who contribute to a future Lexus ISF owner!

ISF4life

iTrader: (30)

08 samurai rims , no LSD ,the 2010 to current, new suspension , new rims design, LSD, Navigation with USB , interiors also some changes and the speedometer , 11-12 new LED headlight , more F owners can chime in . hope that help. Also, 08 to 11 has SGM=smoky granite mica color, 12 discontinued and introduce new color Nebula Gray .

Evil Teo

iTrader: (13)

ahh Blitz u got 1 wrong! lol 2010 has no suspension upgrade only 2011 and up.

ISF4life

iTrader: (30)

lolz oh ok :P

ToooZeRo

blitz_714 thanks man... was very anxious to get a few answers... I noticed the differences in the rims and the speedometer for sure... also notice some difference with the side rockers (2010 to current seems to be more agreesive)... seems to me i should look for at least a 2010?

caveman

just to add to the wheels:
08-09 samuri wheels
10-11 "trident" wheels
12 0.5" wider wheels front and back, wheel design also changed

MisterSkiz

iTrader: (2)

Rocker panels should be all the same throughout all years.

With your budget of 40k (I'm assuming before tax/title/etc), you will be in the market for a '08 with around 35-40k miles on it.

Evil Teo

iTrader: (13)

2009 and up got the new piano black color on the dash. 2011 and up has the new gauge cluster along with new headlights, also has the terra cotta interior option, black engine cover, and lsd and suspension upgrade. 2008-2009 samurai wheels. 2010-2011 has the flower wheels and lsd. 2012 has the new wheels.

ToooZeRo

No major differences with engine performance? Seems to me, mostly cosmetics.

ToooZeRo

I could dish out a few more thousand but looks like '08 for now... maybe '09... probably do not want to jump up to '10 unless i find a good deal around my price range.. unless there are some huge positive differences between '08 and '10...

Evil Teo

iTrader: (13)

lsd is the difference between 08 and 10, also the flower wheels. if u track the car then u would want the lsd, if not 08 is good enough.

caveman

for 2011+, the electronic power steering was re-programmed for a more natural/better feel.

SeanGTS

iTrader: (1)

I got a 2010 with 19k for 43500, you can find them around your price range. I too upgraded from a G35 to the lexus, what a difference The lexus nav is slightly better, still nothing to write home about in my opinion.

cremaster

iTrader: (1)

when you find one you might like, test drive it to make sure it drives staight and doesn't pull to the right. check the inner tire wear on the fronts. i was on g35driver for years and years, also upgraded after the G. like above poster said, it's night and day difference haha good luck.

Mrd916

I was in ur same boat, my budget was $40k and i got a CPO(certified pre-owned) 08 with 30k miles on it for $40k on the dot. Almost all dealers i went to would not budge on their prices too much at all so i gave up trying to get $45k cars for $40k. Really clean ones were selling quick, i lost out on a couple by a few days so if u find a clean one that is recently listed i would jump on it.