I live in Sac. A 430 on Craig's (even if decent) usually takes a couple of weeks to sell. Lots of opinions in here but the Base has fewer things to break. Downside is fewer options (Smart Key, back up mirror, proximity sensors, etc). A big plus (for me anyway) is that it's easy to upgrade to a high end stereo w/ a high resolution screen and much better cell phone interface. Not really an option w/ the Modern, Ultra or Custom. Sounds like the past owner took good care of it. Like everyone else says, have the car completely checked by someone that knows the car. If it's good, 8,500 is pretty reasonable.

 

Looking at image 4......at the C pillar on the driver's side above the gas tank door.... is that a reflection? It looks like 3 impressions (dings) going vertically. Possibly some kind of shadow in picture? Also, I never like it when there is no full picture of the driver's seat. Keep us posted.

 

Are you guys sure the ls 430 doesn't come with a Nakamichi sound system?

 

one thing about az cars is that the ac is on a majority of the season which in turn puts more stress on the engine and ac components, also the sun beating on the body and interior.

 

Yes, the LS430 never came with a Nakimachi (sp?) stereo. Some models of the previous generation LS400 came with the Nakimachi radio. I would focus on the car condition, mileage and maintenance history and not the error in the ad. Could just be an honest mistake.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_LS
this will help you out

 

About 10 yrs ago, when 1998 northeastern Maximas rusted whereby the lower radiator support simply drops the subframe, I remember someone from Phoenix posting his car. No rust, obviously didn't have the subframe/lower rad drop out. But people said, nice car, and oil leaks! I was never sure if the hot dry weather caused the leaks, or what...

 

Just checked out the car!

So the Fenders have the VIN on so it was only a bumper replacement, they claim it was a very minor accident.

They are the 2nd owners (carfax says 1 owner), he bought it from one of his clients he says)

There is a small semi circle rip in the driver seat, back two tires need to be replaced, the paint is peeling a bit off on the black panel on the left rear passenger door, and a small gouge in the rear bumper, and a few small dents around the car.. Also it smelt like someone smoked it in, it wasn't a strong smell, I can probably get that smell out with a good detail I hope.

He is willing to do $8000 after I saw all those things. Assuming I take it to a mechanic and it checks out, should I pull the trigger or should I be patient?

 

Sounds like a good deal to me! Some of the best advice I was ever given was to spend the money on a PPI when buying older, originally very expensive cars. A PPI saved my *** from buying a Turbo Porsche back in the 90's. The service tech said it was a ticking time bomb!!!!
Good luck with your decision. I'm sure make the right call!

 

Thanks! Do you think I can take it to a mechanic near by that has good ratings on yelp or is a Lexus dealer the only way to go?

 

If the independent service center is reputable and knows/services Asian luxury cars, you should be good. If a dealer is close by and has a good reputation, explain to the service tech that you need a PPI and if you buy the car, you will bring it to them for service. Ask him, after the PPI ask if he would sell it on his used lot. I have always used a dealer for PPI. Figure about $200 for the service and ask for a printout of the service. In my opinion, $200 bucks is cheap insurance.
i hope this information is useful to you.

Best,
Rick

 

Go on the Lexus website and download the checklist they use to evaluate CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) vehicle. It will give your mechanics something on which to base his inspection.
http://www.lexus.com/documents/broch...t-brochure.pdf

 

This is absolutely true, because modern shops now use all the tools, I can't even name them all but from memory, Mitchell, Napatech, etc., meaning they're not like you or me googling stuff to find out, etc. They have it at their fingertips....and they mimic the dealer with service reminders, follow factory schedules, do their own multi-point.

As I've found out, the Lexus dealer blanketly goes after the big ticket items--you need timing belt. You need lower control arms and bushings. You need motor mounts. You need 4 new shocks. This is all by age and not even looking at the car. Yet, my clutch fluid is full per Toyota's multi point.

The indie brought it to my attn that there was seepage at the output shaft seal--why wouldn't 2 dealers find that? Too little of a job imho....

I think a Japanese indie is the way to go--they want your future business if you buy the car, so I think they would more likely to bring to your attention things you need, that are not necessarily over $1,000...my .02