mstrange

I have read through this forum ALOT! This is a great place for LS owners. Here is my situation:

I have a 98 GS400 with 133,xxx miles on it. I am looking to buy a 04-05 LS to replace this car. I want a Black on Black LS with Modern Lux or Custum Lux package (need NAV, Mark Lev., vented seats). I looked at getting a Ulta Lux but am scared by the air suspension - I like the cooler in the back as I am a Realtor and this would be nice for my clients!

So here is my question (also if you have input on the Ultra Lux feel free to give it). I am seeing 04 LS with about 32,000-38,000 miles for sale at around $32,000-$34,000. Then I see the same cars with 55,000-70,000 miles for sale at around $27,000-28,000. So what would be your recommendation spend $6,000 more for a car with fewer miles and some factory warranty or save the money and get the car with more miles?

The main issue that I have seen on this board is the Ulta Lux air suspension/struts. Any other big ticket items? My 98 GS400 has two bad door actuators that are about $600 per lock to have repaired!!!

Thanks to all!


PS - I bought my GS400 with about 80,000 miles and the only thing that I have had to do to it is timing belt and water pump (which I waited until about 120,000 miles to do). That is until now with the door actuators.

Mike

KILLERGS4

i would opt for the lower mileage Lexus, because mostly likely it was better taken care of, and because you are a realtor, you need a car with considerable low mileage, because I know you guys rack up ton of miles. I really love the Ultra, really set you apart from the other Lexus cars. Besides, when you get a pre-owned, you ought to get FULLY-LOADED IMO. That Ultra Luxury was over 70k when new, and to get 04 for around 35ish, is a great deal...

mstrange

Option 1 - $28,000 LS430 with 55-70K miles

Option 2 - $34,000 LS430 with 35K miles

Option 3 - $34,000 LS430 Ultra Lux with 55-70Kmiles

$34,000 is my limit on this purchase. Give me your votes and cost DOES matter so your vote and why. Thanks!

Mike

IronCobra

I really don't think you will have any problems with your air suspension. Even if you get around 80k and you find out that one of your shocks is leaking you really don't even need to replace it for some time. I think that Lexus probably has the best system out there. I would question it much more if it were a Mercedes S class. If you want all the comforts for your clients I would recommend the UL because anyone that sits in the back can tell this car was clearly made for those sitting in the back. Any LS will definatly be a treat for your clients though IMHO.

BTW, I have a UL

mstrange

Thanks IronCobra for the reply.

I see on this board from the poll that many people have the UL. How well does the fridge work as this would be great during showings for clients?

KILLERGS4

i wasn't a fan of the fridge at first, but it's pretty nice if you drive more than 1 hr. you stick in some drinks in the fridge and turn on you rear ac, drive around for about an hour and your drink will be realtive cool! I don't know how this will work in the winter time when your heater is turned on???

IronCobra

I'm guessing the cooler takes a while to cool off. I stuck my hand in it after turning the rear AC on and running the car for a few minutes but it didn't really apear to get cool. I probably didn't have it on very long.

I think it's made more for just keeling drinks cool (probably around 60-70 degrees) rather than chilled (under 50 degrees)

VQT

$34K limit means after tax? If not, how much more would you have to pay?

I vote for: Option 3 - $34,000 LS430 Ultra Lux with 55-70Kmiles

mstrange

Yes for after tax. So actually it would be about $2,000 off this price so $32,000 top end. Thanks VQT for clearing up.



So for others input - does anyone worry about the repair costs on the LS430 or what areas? Since over 50,000 miles I would be out of warranty. Also keep your votes coming. Thanks!

Mike

alanchad

iTrader: (1)

I have a 2001 Ultra with 120k miles.

Never any problems with the suspension, or anything else for that matter.

I vote for the Ultra.

Alan

mstrange

Alan,

How many of the 120K miles have you had the car.

Mike

airtime

If you are really intent on driving with rear passengers, my vote would be the UL as its all about the amenities. Keep a small bottle of Champagne to help the client celebrate when you close the deal.

alanchad

iTrader: (1)

Mike,

I bought it new.

Wife mostly drives it.

Mix of city/highway miles.

Just bought an ls460 for her, and I am keeping the 2001 for myself.

I love this car, after owning several mercedes.

Alan

VQT

I looked for more than 6 months to find a mint 04 LS430 Altra. Got one in August 07 at 55K miles for $34K in California, after tax and license in Nevada the total came to almost $38K.