LS - 3rd Gen (2001-2006) Discussion topics related to the flagship Lexus LS430

Used '01 UL - Worth it?

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Old 12-19-13, 08:12 AM
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writes123
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Default Used '01 UL - Worth it?

Just saw a 2001 UL with 135k miles. All the gadgets and electronics were tested and work. After bringing it to a local mechanic he informed me of a few things:

1. Timing Belt/ Water Pump - never done
2. Valve Cover Gasket - leaking; replace spark plugs as well (probably not replaced)
3. 3 Air Shocks are "leaking" - consider replaced all 4 with stock OEM struts and springs
4. Front Lower control arm bushings - 2 ; need to be replaced
5. Transmission drain plug gasket - replace
6. 2 front tires needed - easily seen

From looking up the lexus history, it had regular oil changes but no clear indication of rear differential or transmission service.

The reason for my hesitation is that it is priced near NADA average trade in value.
What do you think the long term prognosis is for this vehicle given what it currently needs?
Is it worth fixing up? or just look for another?

Any thoughts wold be appreciated.
Old 12-19-13, 08:31 AM
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Lynzoid
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don't finish off this car. castrating air suspension is death to magnificent ls430...
Old 12-19-13, 01:39 PM
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Coustic
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Originally Posted by writes123
Just saw a 2001 UL with 135k miles. All the gadgets and electronics were tested and work. After bringing it to a local mechanic he informed me of a few things:

1. Timing Belt/ Water Pump - never done
2. Valve Cover Gasket - leaking; replace spark plugs as well (probably not replaced)
3. 3 Air Shocks are "leaking" - consider replaced all 4 with stock OEM struts and springs
4. Front Lower control arm bushings - 2 ; need to be replaced
5. Transmission drain plug gasket - replace
6. 2 front tires needed - easily seen

From looking up the lexus history, it had regular oil changes but no clear indication of rear differential or transmission service.

The reason for my hesitation is that it is priced near NADA average trade in value.
What do you think the long term prognosis is for this vehicle given what it currently needs?
Is it worth fixing up? or just look for another?

Any thoughts wold be appreciated.
I bought a 2001 Lexus LS430 Ultra with 179K Miles on it for $6500 about 6 months ago- Clean, no accidents, family owned.
Everything was done at the lexus dealer near me..
Brand new tires & Brakes
Needs another timing belt done
Old 12-19-13, 04:07 PM
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warminwisc
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Easy answer NO.
Old 12-19-13, 05:21 PM
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yuri.ber
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This Lexus will need at least $3000 in repairs. If you can get this 3k off the price - maybe. Otherwise no.
Old 12-19-13, 05:38 PM
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warminwisc
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If the owner neglected all this maintenance, why would you buy it? It sounds to me like alot of hard miles.
Old 12-19-13, 05:53 PM
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LS430FL
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my local lexus dealer gave me $7500 trade for my 2001 LS430 ultra with 175,000 miles on it. I did purchase another LS430 from them though. Just sharing for price reference.
Old 12-19-13, 06:36 PM
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warminwisc
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9425.00 is what i come up with nada quickly?
Old 12-19-13, 06:48 PM
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1WILLY1
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u forgot to tell us the most important thing the asking price
Old 12-19-13, 10:13 PM
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L8RSk8R
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Originally Posted by LS430FL
my local lexus dealer gave me $7500 trade for my 2001 LS430 ultra with 175,000 miles on it. I did purchase another LS430 from them though. Just sharing for price reference.
Took my 2006 LS430 Ultra with (at the time) 310,000 miles. I was offered $3500
Old 12-20-13, 06:48 AM
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writes123
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Sorry, the asking price was 7k. Formerly 11k @ start but has been in inventory since early Oct.
Old 12-20-13, 07:19 AM
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1WILLY1
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7k isn't too bad, personally id rather spend a little more and get one with lower mileage, possibly a little newer
Old 12-20-13, 07:29 AM
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Jabberwock
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135k miles isn't usually a problem on these cars, but buying older LS430 with inadequate or missing maintenance record is almost always a bad idea unless you are getting the car for a huge discount. There is a reason it is sitting on the dealer lot for months. Good cars get sold very quickly.
Old 12-20-13, 08:08 AM
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ma61
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If the body and the interior are clean, I'd pay $5k and put a couple grand into it.
Old 12-20-13, 11:27 AM
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I would buy it if the dealer would repair everything on your list...


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