Wandl

Hi all been on CL for a bit but considering a 04-06 Ls430 and just wanted to think out loud for a moment.

I like the 04-06 LS430's mainly due to the slightly revised body, 6 speed tranny and the other aesthetics. I chanced upon one (trade in at a high end dealer) that is an 04 with 103k miles (timing changed at 99k). Immaculate 1 owner UL version...so here raises the question. I hesitate on buying this because of the air suspension (and have read enough horror stories here...but also the trouble free owners).

I'm leaning towards holding off and finding a non air suspension car but wanted to get some of your thoughts (I know I can do a suspension switch out if air fails...if so what's the cost?)

What are some other things you think I should look out for with this 04 unit that I should check further?

Thx in advance!

Legender

Check this thread...
Already been discussed..

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...questions.html

Good luck. And check the FAQs... plenty of information here.

toddmorr

check the maintenance history, at that mileage you might get lucky and the shocks have already been done. In which case you might reasonably expect them to last another 75k.....personally I'd use it as a price negotiating point.

Wandl

Thanks toddmorr - via carfax I happen to know where the previous owner got the car serviced at (a well rated independent Lexus mechanic here in DFW) so will see if they'll give me the work history without breaking any confidentiality clauses...heck may take it to this shop for a PPI as well

Lavrishevo

iTrader: (1)

Here you go Wandl. Just start an account and put the vin number in. I will give you your full dealer history.

https://secure.drivers.lexus.com/lex...-lexus/home.do


The UL's are the cream of the crop in my opinion. You can replace individual air-shocks with good used units for about the same price as a new regular shock. You can convert the whole suspension for about $1200 - $1600 depending on what you choose. I love the air ride. So comfortable. New air-shocks are about $1100 each. Rebuilt is about $800. You get a lot with the UL so the additional expense of dealing with the air-shocks is no brainer for me. I'm at 126k and no issues. I was also worried about it when I purchased my car. I found a nice used set online to have in case of failures. They have been sitting in my closet for two years now. Also, I learned after the fact that air-shocks don't explode and fail immediately. They start leaking slowly giving you plenty of time to decide what you want to do.

Check for any signs of oil leakage down the bag itself. There is a rubber boot that covers the bag but you can see it even with the tire on. Also check for any loud rattle sound when on rough road. These are the major signs that they are leaking or failing. Another sign would be the compressor kicking on often. Very easy to check yourself.

empringham

i had a buddy with a 01-03 UL and he blew a bag on the highway. To my knowledge, it blew with zero warning signs. I think the whole ordeal costed him about $1500 plus a tow bill.