xsole

ok everyone i am buying a 2004 lexus LS 430 with the ultra luxery package. i want to know is the asking price worth it, what should i look out for, should i bring someone to inspect the vehicle..etc..

heres the link to the craigslist listing..
http://cnj.craigslist.org/cto/2734274285.html

he also stated that theres scratches on the front bumper which he will work out the price with me.

Nvbanker

You have given too little information to determine a fair price. What I'd be much more concerned about is mileage and maintenance. Does he have proof of maintenance? Can the dealer look it up? Has the timing belt been changed, assume the mileage is over 90,000? The rest of it should be just a matter of preference. The description of the owner and history sounds good, but you can say anything you want in an ad, and Craig's list is fertile ground for fraud,.

caddyowner

Get the VIN and register on Lexus.com. Enter the VIN and get the service history. I would definitely have it inspected by an independent Lexus mechanic or a dealer. The guy said he's selling it because he lost his license - and from the pics he appears to be a young guy. Hmm, be on the lookout for damage caused by drunken driving.

xsole

the rest of the info is in the listing. thats why i posted the link.. it currently has about 106k. he says the car gets serviced at his uncles shop so i dont think the dealer could pull up much info about the history of maintenance. his asking price is 18.9k and if you look at the second picture on the ad, you can see the scratches and a dent on the fender.

xsole

thanks. can i have someone come out and look at it or do i have to bring it into the dealer? and how much does it usually cost to have something like that done?

CarGuy89

I would honestly suggest that you keep looking. The LS in the link you posted doesn't look like it was well cared for. The bumper scratches are very notable if you look at left front, extending up to the metal fenders. The fact that the owner didn't bother wash or vacuum the car before posting it online for sale would deter me from it.

Keep searching, autotrader is a good source (where I found mine). I would also suggest a Lexus dealer as they seem to have cleaner, better-kept 430s (though of course it's not always the case). Try to find one that was serviced at the dealer at recommended 5k mi intervals. Good luck with everything, the 430 is an excellent car and I'm sure you'll love it!

Bocatrip

Craigs list can be a breeding ground for fraud. Why not try Auto Trader or another source?