gstern1994

Hi all,

I was thinking about selling my 05, but after driving several other cars - even an LS460, I came to the conclusion that I like mine more. Since I've decided to keep it, I'd like to do as much as I can for $2500-3000 in maint. to get the car feeling/driving as nicely as it can. Currently, everything works on the car without issue.

I've already replaced the front/rear struts (112k), trunk struts (last weekend), the timing belt/wp was done at 95Kish, but aside form general maint., that's all I've done.

Here were some items I was considering based on what I've gleaned from the forum:

All suspensions bushings
Engine Mounts
Door gaskets (some of mine are torn)

Anything else that would be recommended for driving feel and overall reliability?

Thanks!

Tom57

Lower ball joints and control arm bushings, outer & inner tie rods, front sway bar links, and front & rear sway bar bushings. 4-wheel alignment. Shin Et Su on the door gaskets (for quieter ride).

toddmorr

don't forget Shin Etsu on the sunroof gaskets...last year I forgot but this year remembered and they did need it.

gstern1994

Thanks guy's for the suggestions, I really appreciate it.

Tom57

As for your "overall reliability" question, aside from TB/WP, have you replaced the spark plugs, cleaned the mass air flow sensor, and cleaned the throttle body? Have you had the alternator output checked?

LuxuryGS3

iTrader: (12)

When I did my 90k maint I had them also drain/fill the tranny/diff/brake fluid. Car drove a lot smoother after I got it back, so if you haven't done those i'd suggest it. At least the tranny/diff fluid.

gstern1994

Thanks Tom57, I hadn't considered those items.

Arcturus

If everything works without issue, keep the cash until it does have one. These cars are pretty reliable and that's one of the joys of owning them.

zapola6

I would have to agree on the tranny flush, had it done in my 01 around 125K it did make an improvement. I bought it 3 years ago with 115K on it; I have 206K on it now.

It gets to the point where you have a very reliable paid for car that has a set value and even if you put money into it it’s going to have the same value. I would love to put some money into a little bit of body work, but I still have a car that's worth that same $8000ish and it’s not going to last any longer....

My plan, spend money on it as it needs it, the car is still on original suspension and has a great ride doing 100 miles per day. My suggestion, fix what needs to be fixed and update items that makes you happy and improve the quality of your time in it.

So far I have been able to do all of my own maintenance to include timing belt, other than regular maintenance, I did have a check engine light the other day, replaced the #3 coil pack and fixed, only thing that has failed in 110K miles. (Other than the rust on the door above the trim, are you watching Lexus!!! It’s an issue.)

When this one dies I’m going to look for a 05 like yours…

gstern1994

Thanks for the excellent advice everyone. I'm going to get the car inspected by a trusted mechanic, and only fix what's needed.