Help evaluating a 2006 LS430 ML with 160k miles
10-10-19 | 08:28 AM
#1
Thread Starter
Pit Crew
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 145
Likes: 18
From: CA
Help evaluating a 2006 LS430 ML with 160k miles
Hello folks, first post here.
I was bitten by the LS430 bug after having my old Accord totaled and looking for a quieter car. I have been looking for the past 3 weeks and keep having them slip out of my grasp - a couple of them sold too quickly, and for another, a guy who owned two LSs withdrew from the sale the day before I was going to go check it out (because his wife wanted to keep both!)
I have a dealer who is going to bring me a car to check out, it has 160k miles and from what I can tell of the Carfax and the Lexus service records (see below), none of the big stuff has been done. No spark plugs/timing belt/water pump.
Lexus records:
REPAIR# 0437925
REPORTED BY:
SERVICE: DIAGNOSIS
DESCRIPTION: DIAGNOSIS ~|~CUSTOMER STATES BRAKES ARE WORN OUT, PERFORM BRAKE INSPECTION AS PER CUSTOMER REQUEST. ~|~FRONT BRAKE PADS ARE WORN TO 2MM AND HAVE WORN BELOW BRAKE P AD SENSOR. RECOMMEND FRONT BRAKE PADS, NEW FRONT BRAKE PAD SENSOR AND MACHINING FRONT ROTORS. ~|~REPLACED FRONT BRAKE PADS AND SENSOR, MACHINED FRONT ROTORS. ROAD TESTED FOR PROPER OPERATION- GOOD. REAR BRAKES OK, 7MM REMAINING.SHOW LESS
SERVICE: FLOOR MAT INSPECTION
DESCRIPTION: FLOOR MAT INSPECTION ~|~INSPECT THE DRIVERS SIDE FLOOR MAT TO MAKE SURE THAT IT IS PROPERLY INSTALLED AND THERE ARE NO DOUBLE STACKED FLOOR MATS. ~|~ ~|~THE DRIVERS SIDE FLOOR MAT IS PROPERLY INSTALLED AND NO ACTION IS REQUIRED AT THIS TIME.SHOW LESS
SERVICE: SET TIRE PRESSURE
DESCRIPTION: SET TIRE PRESSURE ~|~PERFORM TIRE PRESSURE INSPECT AND ADJUSTMENT. CALIFORNIA AIR RESOURCES BOARD RULE. INSPECT TIRE PRESSURE AND SET TO RECOMMENDED TIRE PRESSURE RATING. (VEHICLE MANUFACTURERS TIRE SPECIFICATIONS) DOCUMENT THE TIRE INFLATION SERVICE COMPLETE AND NOTE THE TIR ~|~ ~|~TIRES LF=32 RF=32 LR=32 RR=32 PSI.SHOW LESS
REPAIR# 0159939
REPORTED BY: Lexus of Concord, LLC
SERVICE: BODY INTERIOR
DESCRIPTION: BODY INTERIOR ~|~CUSTOMER STATES THE WINDOW MAKES A LOUD POPPING NOISE - THE WINDOW WAS REPLACED BY A THIRD PARTY ABOUT 6 MONTHS AGO - PLEASE CHECK AND ADVISE ~|~ ~|~70539 FOUND WINDOW BOLTS COMING OUT. RE-TIMED WINDOW MOTOR TO REGULATOR AND REINSTALLED WINDOW GLASS. OK AT THIS TIME.SHOW LESS
SERVICE: CUSTOMER HAS AUTHORIZED TO REPLACE THE REAR BRAKES PADS AND MACHINE THE ROTORS.
DESCRIPTION: CUSTOMER HAS AUTHORIZED TO REPLACE THE REAR BRAKES PADS AND MACHINE THE ROTORS. ~|~CUSTOMER HAS AUTHORIZED TO REPLACE THE REAR BRAKES PADS AND MACHINE THE ROTORS. ~|~ ~|~70539 REPLACED REAR BRAKE PADS AND TURNED ROTORS.
SERVICE: PERFORM 60,000 MILE PREMIUM SERVICE PRE CUSTOMER REQUEST.
DESCRIPTION: PERFORM 60,000 MILE PREMIUM SERVICE PRE CUSTOMER REQUEST. ~|~PERFORM 60,000 MILE PREMIUM SERVICE PRE CUSTOMER REQUEST. ~|~ ~|~70532 PERFORMED A 60,000 MILE SERVICE AS PER CUSTOMERS REQUEST AND PER ATTACHED SHEET NOPTE FRONT BRAKES ARE AT 6.0MM REAR BRAKES ARE NEW - REPLACED DURING SERVICE - TIRE TREAD IS AT 7/32 6/32 5/32 4/32 - GOOD AT THIS TIMESHOW LESS
REPAIR# 0124328
REPORTED BY: Lexus of Concord, LLC
SERVICE: CUSTOMER REQUEST PERFORM 45,000 MILE SERVICE AS PER PREMIUM SERVICE GUIDE.**** A
DESCRIPTION: CUSTOMER REQUEST PERFORM 45,000 MILE SERVICE AS PER PREMIUM SERVICE GUIDE.**** A ~|~CUSTOMER REQUEST PERFORM 45,000 MILE SERVICE AS PER PREMIUM SERVICE GUIDE.**** ASK YOUR SERVICE CONSULTANT ABOUT AN EXTENDED SERVICE CONTRACT****** ~|~ ~|~48380 PERFORMED 45,000 MILE SERVICE AS PER SERVICE MENU REPLACED FRONT BRAKES. REAR BRAKES HAVE 5MM REMAINING. FRONT TIRES HAVE 9/32 TREAD REMAINING. REAR TIRES HAVE 9.75/32 TREAD REMAINING.SHOW LESS
SERVICE: OTHERS R&R*
DESCRIPTION: OTHERS R&R* ~|~REMOTE INOP ~|~BATTERY ~|~48380 SMART KEY BATTERY DISCHARGED REPLACED BATTERY FOR SMART KEY
SERVICE: REPLACE A/C FILTER
DESCRIPTION: REPLACE A/C FILTER ~|~REPLACE A/C CABIN FILTER ~|~ ~|~48384 AIR CONDITIONING FILTER REPLACEMENT REMINDER ILLUMINATED, FILTER DIRTY REP LACED CABIN AIR FILTER
SERVICE: REPLACE FRONT BRAKES
DESCRIPTION: REPLACE FRONT BRAKES ~|~REPLACE WORN FRONT BRAKES ~|~ ~|~48380 FRONT BRAKE LININGS 3 MILLIMETERS REMAINING REPLACED FRONT DISC PADS AND CALIPER MOUNTING BOLTS. MACHINED FRONT ROTORS. BEFORE MACHINING FRONT ROTORS MEASURED 1.169 INCHES LEFT AND 1.170 INCHES RIGHT. AFTER MACHINING, FRONT ROTORS MEASURED 1.163 INCSHOW LESS
REPAIR# 0606960
REPORTED BY: Freeman Lexus
SERVICE: LEXUS C-BEST SETTING
DESCRIPTION: LEXUS C-BEST SETTING ~|~CUSTOMER REQUESTS TO PERFORM LEXUS PERSONALIZED C-BEST CHANGES AS FOLLLOWS. - OP CODE 001030 --SET ALL DOORS TO UNLOCK WHEN TOUCHING REMOTE ONE TIME --SET ALL DOORS TO UNLOCK IN PARK ~|~PROGRAMED C-BEST AS REQUESTED ~|~PROGRAMED ALL C-BEST CHANGES AS CUSTOMER REQUESTED.SHOW LESS
SERVICE: NON WARRANTABLE OPERATION CODE
DESCRIPTION: NON WARRANTABLE OPERATION CODE ~|~CUSTOMER REQUEST TO REPAIR TIRE IN TRUNK AND TURN LIGHT OFF AS WELL AS MAINTAINCE LIGHT ~|~REPAIRED TIRE, PUT ON LEFT REAR. SPARE BACK IN TRUNK. RESET LIGHTS.
REPAIR# 0580981
REPORTED BY: Freeman Lexus
SERVICE: BODY DIAGNOSIS
DESCRIPTION: BODY DIAGNOSIS ~|~PER SALES CUSTOMER TO GET VEHICLE DETAIL,WAS SOLD WITH PLASTIC STILL ON AND DIRTY. PER LELAND IN SALES. ~|~DETAILED VEHICLE
SERVICE: FRONT/REAR BODY
DESCRIPTION: FRONT/REAR BODY ~|~CUSTOMER STATES THE VEHICLE FLOOR MATS ARE THE WRONG COLOR PLEASE INSTALL CORRECT MATS. ~|~INSTALLED CORRECT MATS
REPAIR# 0576486
REPORTED BY: Freeman Lexus
Carfax:
Mileage
Source
Comments
11/25/2005
NICB
Vehicle manufactured
and shipped to original dealer
12/23/2005
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Santa Rosa, CA
Title issued or updated
- First owner reported
- Titled or registered as personal lease vehicle
- Loan or lien reported
09/18/2007
Inspection Station
Passed emissions inspection
09/19/2007
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Fairfield, CA
Odometer reading reported
01/02/2008
California
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Fairfield, CA
Title issued or updated
- Loan or lien reported
- Owner purchased from leasing company
07/16/2009
Concord, CA
925-682-3033
lexusofconcord.com4.5
84 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- 45,000 mile service performed
- Front brakes replaced
- Cabin air filter replaced/cleaned
06/29/2011
Concord, CA
925-682-3033
lexusofconcord.com4.5
84 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- 60,000 mile service performed
09/28/2012
California
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Fairfield, CA
Title issued or updated
- Loan or lien released
12/04/2012
Vacaville, CA
707-451-12334.7
45 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- Inspection completed
- Maintenance inspection completed
- Fluids checked
- Oil and filter changed
- Air filter replaced
- Emissions inspection performed
12/04/2012
California
Inspection Station
Vacaville, CA
Passed emissions inspection
05/07/2014
Vallejo, CA
707-552-4545
toyotavallejo.com4.0
8 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- Tire condition and pressure checked
- Floor mat(s) checked
11/12/2014
Vacaville, CA
707-451-12334.7
45 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- Maintenance inspection completed
- Oil and filter changed
- Safety inspection performed
- Emissions inspection performed
11/12/2014
Inspection Station
Passed safety inspection
- Passed emissions inspection
12/15/2016
Vacaville, CA
707-451-12334.7
45 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- Maintenance inspection completed
- Oil and filter changed
- Safety inspection performed
- Emissions inspection performed
12/15/2016
California
Inspection Station
Passed safety inspection
- Passed emissions inspection
01/08/2019
Vacaville, CA
707-451-12334.7
45 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- Maintenance inspection completed
- Safety inspection performed
- Oil and filter changed
- Emissions inspection performed
01/08/2019
California
Inspection Station
Passed safety inspection
- Passed emissions inspection
02/18/2019
Fairfield, CA
707-422-7000
midwayautoandbrake.c
om/contact.html5.0
8 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- Front brake pads replaced
- Brakes checked
- Drivability/performance checked
- Brake fluid checked
- Rear brake rotor(s) replaced
- Brake fluid flushed/changed
- Rear brake pads replaced
- Brake calipers cleaned/serviced
- High mount brake light bulb replaced
- Battery/charging system checked
- Air filter replaced
My questions:
1. If the big services have not been done, should I not buy the car? Or, should I count the cost of doing these things (I think it runs around $1000?) in the fair value of the car and just do it myself?
2. What do you guys think the car is worth if there are no mechanical problems? From the photos there are a few faint scrapes on bumpers, and a dent/ding driver side lower front bumper. Inside looks good. So maybe 7/10 exterior, 8/10 interior. Seller is asking $8700.
3. I will get a PPI from a mechanic who is familiar with the LS430, but what else should I be looking for? Mirrors, door locks, windows, what else?
Thank you. Looking for some quick pointers, I am seeing the car later today. It will be my first time driving an LS430.
(I am also looking at a base 2004 LS430 with 115k miles, which I prefer because there is no touchscreen, and the dealer agrees to discount the cost of water pump/timing belt, or have them done, and I was going to see if he'll add on spark plugs - also asking $9000).
I was bitten by the LS430 bug after having my old Accord totaled and looking for a quieter car. I have been looking for the past 3 weeks and keep having them slip out of my grasp - a couple of them sold too quickly, and for another, a guy who owned two LSs withdrew from the sale the day before I was going to go check it out (because his wife wanted to keep both!)
I have a dealer who is going to bring me a car to check out, it has 160k miles and from what I can tell of the Carfax and the Lexus service records (see below), none of the big stuff has been done. No spark plugs/timing belt/water pump.
Lexus records:
102695 MILES
DATE: 05/08/2014REPAIR# 0437925
REPORTED BY:
SERVICE: DIAGNOSIS
DESCRIPTION: DIAGNOSIS ~|~CUSTOMER STATES BRAKES ARE WORN OUT, PERFORM BRAKE INSPECTION AS PER CUSTOMER REQUEST. ~|~FRONT BRAKE PADS ARE WORN TO 2MM AND HAVE WORN BELOW BRAKE P AD SENSOR. RECOMMEND FRONT BRAKE PADS, NEW FRONT BRAKE PAD SENSOR AND MACHINING FRONT ROTORS. ~|~REPLACED FRONT BRAKE PADS AND SENSOR, MACHINED FRONT ROTORS. ROAD TESTED FOR PROPER OPERATION- GOOD. REAR BRAKES OK, 7MM REMAINING.SHOW LESS
SERVICE: FLOOR MAT INSPECTION
DESCRIPTION: FLOOR MAT INSPECTION ~|~INSPECT THE DRIVERS SIDE FLOOR MAT TO MAKE SURE THAT IT IS PROPERLY INSTALLED AND THERE ARE NO DOUBLE STACKED FLOOR MATS. ~|~ ~|~THE DRIVERS SIDE FLOOR MAT IS PROPERLY INSTALLED AND NO ACTION IS REQUIRED AT THIS TIME.SHOW LESS
SERVICE: SET TIRE PRESSURE
DESCRIPTION: SET TIRE PRESSURE ~|~PERFORM TIRE PRESSURE INSPECT AND ADJUSTMENT. CALIFORNIA AIR RESOURCES BOARD RULE. INSPECT TIRE PRESSURE AND SET TO RECOMMENDED TIRE PRESSURE RATING. (VEHICLE MANUFACTURERS TIRE SPECIFICATIONS) DOCUMENT THE TIRE INFLATION SERVICE COMPLETE AND NOTE THE TIR ~|~ ~|~TIRES LF=32 RF=32 LR=32 RR=32 PSI.SHOW LESS
70539 MILES
DATE: 06/29/2011REPAIR# 0159939
REPORTED BY: Lexus of Concord, LLC
SERVICE: BODY INTERIOR
DESCRIPTION: BODY INTERIOR ~|~CUSTOMER STATES THE WINDOW MAKES A LOUD POPPING NOISE - THE WINDOW WAS REPLACED BY A THIRD PARTY ABOUT 6 MONTHS AGO - PLEASE CHECK AND ADVISE ~|~ ~|~70539 FOUND WINDOW BOLTS COMING OUT. RE-TIMED WINDOW MOTOR TO REGULATOR AND REINSTALLED WINDOW GLASS. OK AT THIS TIME.SHOW LESS
SERVICE: CUSTOMER HAS AUTHORIZED TO REPLACE THE REAR BRAKES PADS AND MACHINE THE ROTORS.
DESCRIPTION: CUSTOMER HAS AUTHORIZED TO REPLACE THE REAR BRAKES PADS AND MACHINE THE ROTORS. ~|~CUSTOMER HAS AUTHORIZED TO REPLACE THE REAR BRAKES PADS AND MACHINE THE ROTORS. ~|~ ~|~70539 REPLACED REAR BRAKE PADS AND TURNED ROTORS.
SERVICE: PERFORM 60,000 MILE PREMIUM SERVICE PRE CUSTOMER REQUEST.
DESCRIPTION: PERFORM 60,000 MILE PREMIUM SERVICE PRE CUSTOMER REQUEST. ~|~PERFORM 60,000 MILE PREMIUM SERVICE PRE CUSTOMER REQUEST. ~|~ ~|~70532 PERFORMED A 60,000 MILE SERVICE AS PER CUSTOMERS REQUEST AND PER ATTACHED SHEET NOPTE FRONT BRAKES ARE AT 6.0MM REAR BRAKES ARE NEW - REPLACED DURING SERVICE - TIRE TREAD IS AT 7/32 6/32 5/32 4/32 - GOOD AT THIS TIMESHOW LESS
48385 MILES
DATE: 07/16/2009REPAIR# 0124328
REPORTED BY: Lexus of Concord, LLC
SERVICE: CUSTOMER REQUEST PERFORM 45,000 MILE SERVICE AS PER PREMIUM SERVICE GUIDE.**** A
DESCRIPTION: CUSTOMER REQUEST PERFORM 45,000 MILE SERVICE AS PER PREMIUM SERVICE GUIDE.**** A ~|~CUSTOMER REQUEST PERFORM 45,000 MILE SERVICE AS PER PREMIUM SERVICE GUIDE.**** ASK YOUR SERVICE CONSULTANT ABOUT AN EXTENDED SERVICE CONTRACT****** ~|~ ~|~48380 PERFORMED 45,000 MILE SERVICE AS PER SERVICE MENU REPLACED FRONT BRAKES. REAR BRAKES HAVE 5MM REMAINING. FRONT TIRES HAVE 9/32 TREAD REMAINING. REAR TIRES HAVE 9.75/32 TREAD REMAINING.SHOW LESS
SERVICE: OTHERS R&R*
DESCRIPTION: OTHERS R&R* ~|~REMOTE INOP ~|~BATTERY ~|~48380 SMART KEY BATTERY DISCHARGED REPLACED BATTERY FOR SMART KEY
SERVICE: REPLACE A/C FILTER
DESCRIPTION: REPLACE A/C FILTER ~|~REPLACE A/C CABIN FILTER ~|~ ~|~48384 AIR CONDITIONING FILTER REPLACEMENT REMINDER ILLUMINATED, FILTER DIRTY REP LACED CABIN AIR FILTER
SERVICE: REPLACE FRONT BRAKES
DESCRIPTION: REPLACE FRONT BRAKES ~|~REPLACE WORN FRONT BRAKES ~|~ ~|~48380 FRONT BRAKE LININGS 3 MILLIMETERS REMAINING REPLACED FRONT DISC PADS AND CALIPER MOUNTING BOLTS. MACHINED FRONT ROTORS. BEFORE MACHINING FRONT ROTORS MEASURED 1.169 INCHES LEFT AND 1.170 INCHES RIGHT. AFTER MACHINING, FRONT ROTORS MEASURED 1.163 INCSHOW LESS
7924 MILES
DATE: 07/05/2006REPAIR# 0606960
REPORTED BY: Freeman Lexus
SERVICE: LEXUS C-BEST SETTING
DESCRIPTION: LEXUS C-BEST SETTING ~|~CUSTOMER REQUESTS TO PERFORM LEXUS PERSONALIZED C-BEST CHANGES AS FOLLLOWS. - OP CODE 001030 --SET ALL DOORS TO UNLOCK WHEN TOUCHING REMOTE ONE TIME --SET ALL DOORS TO UNLOCK IN PARK ~|~PROGRAMED C-BEST AS REQUESTED ~|~PROGRAMED ALL C-BEST CHANGES AS CUSTOMER REQUESTED.SHOW LESS
SERVICE: NON WARRANTABLE OPERATION CODE
DESCRIPTION: NON WARRANTABLE OPERATION CODE ~|~CUSTOMER REQUEST TO REPAIR TIRE IN TRUNK AND TURN LIGHT OFF AS WELL AS MAINTAINCE LIGHT ~|~REPAIRED TIRE, PUT ON LEFT REAR. SPARE BACK IN TRUNK. RESET LIGHTS.
836 MILES
DATE: 01/04/2006REPAIR# 0580981
REPORTED BY: Freeman Lexus
SERVICE: BODY DIAGNOSIS
DESCRIPTION: BODY DIAGNOSIS ~|~PER SALES CUSTOMER TO GET VEHICLE DETAIL,WAS SOLD WITH PLASTIC STILL ON AND DIRTY. PER LELAND IN SALES. ~|~DETAILED VEHICLE
SERVICE: FRONT/REAR BODY
DESCRIPTION: FRONT/REAR BODY ~|~CUSTOMER STATES THE VEHICLE FLOOR MATS ARE THE WRONG COLOR PLEASE INSTALL CORRECT MATS. ~|~INSTALLED CORRECT MATS
23 MILES
DATE: 12/03/2005REPAIR# 0576486
REPORTED BY: Freeman Lexus
Owner 1
Purchased: 2005
Low mileage! This owner drove less than the industry average of 15,000 miles per year.
Purchased: 2005
Low mileage! This owner drove less than the industry average of 15,000 miles per year.Personal Lease Vehicle
12,180 mi/yr
Date12,180 mi/yr
Mileage
Source
Comments
11/25/2005
Vehicle manufactured
and shipped to original dealer
12/23/2005
20
CaliforniaMotor Vehicle Dept.
Santa Rosa, CA
Title issued or updated
- First owner reported
- Titled or registered as personal lease vehicle
- Loan or lien reported
09/18/2007
23,340
CaliforniaInspection Station
Passed emissions inspection
09/19/2007
23,403
CaliforniaMotor Vehicle Dept.
Fairfield, CA
Odometer reading reported
01/02/2008
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Fairfield, CA
Title issued or updated
- Loan or lien reported
- Owner purchased from leasing company
07/16/2009
48,380
Lexus of ConcordConcord, CA
925-682-3033
lexusofconcord.com4.5
84 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- 45,000 mile service performed
- Front brakes replaced
- Cabin air filter replaced/cleaned
06/29/2011
70,532
Lexus of ConcordConcord, CA
925-682-3033
lexusofconcord.com4.5
84 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- 60,000 mile service performed
09/28/2012
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Fairfield, CA
Title issued or updated
- Loan or lien released
12/04/2012
87,828
The Cherry PitVacaville, CA
707-451-12334.7
45 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- Inspection completed
- Maintenance inspection completed
- Fluids checked
- Oil and filter changed
- Air filter replaced
- Emissions inspection performed
12/04/2012
Inspection Station
Vacaville, CA
Passed emissions inspection
05/07/2014
102,695
Toyota of VallejoVallejo, CA
707-552-4545
toyotavallejo.com4.0
8 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- Tire condition and pressure checked
- Floor mat(s) checked
11/12/2014
109,228
The Cherry PitVacaville, CA
707-451-12334.7
45 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- Maintenance inspection completed
- Oil and filter changed
- Safety inspection performed
- Emissions inspection performed
11/12/2014
109,281
CaliforniaInspection Station
Passed safety inspection
- Passed emissions inspection
12/15/2016
133,477
The Cherry PitVacaville, CA
707-451-12334.7
45 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- Maintenance inspection completed
- Oil and filter changed
- Safety inspection performed
- Emissions inspection performed
12/15/2016
Inspection Station
Passed safety inspection
- Passed emissions inspection
01/08/2019
159,833
The Cherry PitVacaville, CA
707-451-12334.7
45 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- Maintenance inspection completed
- Safety inspection performed
- Oil and filter changed
- Emissions inspection performed
01/08/2019
Inspection Station
Passed safety inspection
- Passed emissions inspection
02/18/2019
160,375
Midway Automotive & MufflerFairfield, CA
707-422-7000
midwayautoandbrake.c
om/contact.html5.0
8 Verified Reviews
Vehicle serviced
- Front brake pads replaced
- Brakes checked
- Drivability/performance checked
- Brake fluid checked
- Rear brake rotor(s) replaced
- Brake fluid flushed/changed
- Rear brake pads replaced
- Brake calipers cleaned/serviced
- High mount brake light bulb replaced
- Battery/charging system checked
- Air filter replaced
My questions:
1. If the big services have not been done, should I not buy the car? Or, should I count the cost of doing these things (I think it runs around $1000?) in the fair value of the car and just do it myself?
2. What do you guys think the car is worth if there are no mechanical problems? From the photos there are a few faint scrapes on bumpers, and a dent/ding driver side lower front bumper. Inside looks good. So maybe 7/10 exterior, 8/10 interior. Seller is asking $8700.
3. I will get a PPI from a mechanic who is familiar with the LS430, but what else should I be looking for? Mirrors, door locks, windows, what else?
Thank you. Looking for some quick pointers, I am seeing the car later today. It will be my first time driving an LS430.
(I am also looking at a base 2004 LS430 with 115k miles, which I prefer because there is no touchscreen, and the dealer agrees to discount the cost of water pump/timing belt, or have them done, and I was going to see if he'll add on spark plugs - also asking $9000).
10-10-19 | 09:12 AM
#2
Lead Lap
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,627
Likes: 286
From: Fl
Both cars are overpriced in the condition described. I'd keep looking and wait for a car that has a decent service history with less work. The LS430 is not a car you want with numerous items that require attention unless you want to take on a full time job. Good luck and let us know how you make out.
10-10-19 | 09:54 AM
#3
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 8,491
Likes: 372
From: PA
My car has 120k and in excellent condition, Carfax says $4,230. The ***** value dropped $10 just by opening the app. Maybe retail adds another $1200, who knows.
Hard to say if someone pays 9k, should the govt step in and reverse the transaction, or is it simply haha and the seller keeps the money. I just think at some point it's not anything goes just because someone doesn't know any better.
Hard to say if someone pays 9k, should the govt step in and reverse the transaction, or is it simply haha and the seller keeps the money. I just think at some point it's not anything goes just because someone doesn't know any better.
10-10-19 | 10:17 AM
#4
Thread Starter
Pit Crew
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 145
Likes: 18
From: CA
Well I was going to get him to come down, though I was thinking more along the lines of 7k. It appears I need to recalibrate my sense of intrinsic value of these cars. What do you guys think about a base 2004 that has 115k miles?
I guess my main question is that aside from this specific car, when is it 'too late' to get these services done. As in, is there a mileage at which you would not get the car simply because it has gone too long without the 'big things' done. And are there any 'big things' besides timing belt/water pump/spark plugs? I assume suspension work comes later?
I guess my main question is that aside from this specific car, when is it 'too late' to get these services done. As in, is there a mileage at which you would not get the car simply because it has gone too long without the 'big things' done. And are there any 'big things' besides timing belt/water pump/spark plugs? I assume suspension work comes later?
10-10-19 | 10:34 AM
#6
Lexus Champion
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 2,876
Likes: 31
From: wi
https://www.edmunds.com/lexus/ls-430...praisal-value/
This is pretty accurate I think I used 130 k miles no nav base features expecting it to have kessy Average condition
This is pretty accurate I think I used 130 k miles no nav base features expecting it to have kessy Average condition
10-10-19 | 12:52 PM
#7
Racer
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 1,550
Likes: 268
From: Ohio
Well I was going to get him to come down, though I was thinking more along the lines of 7k. It appears I need to recalibrate my sense of intrinsic value of these cars. What do you guys think about a base 2004 that has 115k miles?
I guess my main question is that aside from this specific car, when is it 'too late' to get these services done. As in, is there a mileage at which you would not get the car simply because it has gone too long without the 'big things' done. And are there any 'big things' besides timing belt/water pump/spark plugs? I assume suspension work comes later?
I guess my main question is that aside from this specific car, when is it 'too late' to get these services done. As in, is there a mileage at which you would not get the car simply because it has gone too long without the 'big things' done. And are there any 'big things' besides timing belt/water pump/spark plugs? I assume suspension work comes later?
I would reject any vehicle regardless of mileage if the lack of service reflects serious neglect. Lots of folks skimp on the TB service, so that's really not a cause for concern. Most any vehicle may need suspension work after 100K.
Trending Topics
10-10-19 | 01:02 PM
#8
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 8,491
Likes: 372
From: PA
Just throwing it out there on pricing. We've all overpaid for something in our lives, likely because we don't have a feel for it. Is amazon stock worth $1700+? Google $1200? My coworkers called me crazy to buy amazon at $175 in 1998 (any guesses what happened).
I like Nike Dri fit golf shirts. Anybody can post a pic and show the tags that say $65.00. There probably is someone on earth who does pay $65.00. But just cuz the tag says it doesn't make it so. A dude was advertising an Alabama shirt for $35, make offer. I offered $22 and he took it. It's new with tags and I bet he got it $10 so that's nice flip.
I would say keep looking online and you'll get a feel, seriously. A week from now you'll be telling us what things are worth, simply because you are in fact looking all around and getting that feel.
When I got my car in 10/16 for $14 I know I overpaid maybe $1500, I know that. It was a FLA car with 81k at a new car dealer. There were some that were $17-$19k that's overpaying even more. It will always exist. When I drove away and the driver door actuator was not working and the car needed new brakes, these were done no extra charge. So that softened the blow of overpaying, as will keeping forever...
It's all about feel, Carfax lowballs, KBB overestimates, they each have ulterior motives for doing so. Just like zillow on a home.
I like Nike Dri fit golf shirts. Anybody can post a pic and show the tags that say $65.00. There probably is someone on earth who does pay $65.00. But just cuz the tag says it doesn't make it so. A dude was advertising an Alabama shirt for $35, make offer. I offered $22 and he took it. It's new with tags and I bet he got it $10 so that's nice flip.
I would say keep looking online and you'll get a feel, seriously. A week from now you'll be telling us what things are worth, simply because you are in fact looking all around and getting that feel.
When I got my car in 10/16 for $14 I know I overpaid maybe $1500, I know that. It was a FLA car with 81k at a new car dealer. There were some that were $17-$19k that's overpaying even more. It will always exist. When I drove away and the driver door actuator was not working and the car needed new brakes, these were done no extra charge. So that softened the blow of overpaying, as will keeping forever...
It's all about feel, Carfax lowballs, KBB overestimates, they each have ulterior motives for doing so. Just like zillow on a home.
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usedname (10-10-19)
10-10-19 | 01:12 PM
#9
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 592
Likes: 37
From: Kentucky
Well I was going to get him to come down, though I was thinking more along the lines of 7k. It appears I need to recalibrate my sense of intrinsic value of these cars. What do you guys think about a base 2004 that has 115k miles?
I guess my main question is that aside from this specific car, when is it 'too late' to get these services done. As in, is there a mileage at which you would not get the car simply because it has gone too long without the 'big things' done. And are there any 'big things' besides timing belt/water pump/spark plugs? I assume suspension work comes later?
I guess my main question is that aside from this specific car, when is it 'too late' to get these services done. As in, is there a mileage at which you would not get the car simply because it has gone too long without the 'big things' done. And are there any 'big things' besides timing belt/water pump/spark plugs? I assume suspension work comes later?
The question is if the owner disregard maintenance for TB from 90K to 160K, what else does this person disregard? Oil change?
Big/expensive things beside TB: suspensions, tires.
Another vote for these cars are over priced as is. Can be a great deal at much lower price if everything else checks out.
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usedname (10-10-19)
10-10-19 | 02:20 PM
#10
Thread Starter
Pit Crew
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 145
Likes: 18
From: CA
Well, this was my first time actually driving an LS, or a Lexus for that matter.
It definitely is a quiet car, although still some road noise. Somehow I was expecting an even quieter ride! The steering wheel actually feels tight to me. The acceleration is great, the brakes are phenomenal.
This particular car the mirror switch was out, so no tilt down in reverse. Completely forgot to check the audio. Everything else, including telescopic steering, seemed to work fine. The backseat is roomy, but the seats don't recline. I have not sat in an Avalon either but I think they have slightly more rear space. I wonder if I wouldn't note too much of a difference between the silence of this car and the relative quiet of an Avalon, or an LX470? For reference I am used to a very noisy 05 Accord, and since that car was totaled, my wife's Highlander Hybrid.
It definitely is a quiet car, although still some road noise. Somehow I was expecting an even quieter ride! The steering wheel actually feels tight to me. The acceleration is great, the brakes are phenomenal.
This particular car the mirror switch was out, so no tilt down in reverse. Completely forgot to check the audio. Everything else, including telescopic steering, seemed to work fine. The backseat is roomy, but the seats don't recline. I have not sat in an Avalon either but I think they have slightly more rear space. I wonder if I wouldn't note too much of a difference between the silence of this car and the relative quiet of an Avalon, or an LX470? For reference I am used to a very noisy 05 Accord, and since that car was totaled, my wife's Highlander Hybrid.
10-10-19 | 02:44 PM
#11
Advanced
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 647
Likes: 256
From: Ct
My car has 120k and in excellent condition, Carfax says $4,230. The ***** value dropped $10 just by opening the app. Maybe retail adds another $1200, who knows.
Hard to say if someone pays 9k, should the govt step in and reverse the transaction, or is it simply haha and the seller keeps the money. I just think at some point it's not anything goes just because someone doesn't know any better.
Hard to say if someone pays 9k, should the govt step in and reverse the transaction, or is it simply haha and the seller keeps the money. I just think at some point it's not anything goes just because someone doesn't know any better.
I'll tell you what. I live in CT. I will go out to PA this weekend and buy your car for $4200 if you seriously think that's what it's worth. I'm 100% serious. Guarantee we won't make a sale because you and the market know it's worth way more than that... If we can make a deal you'll have gotten what you purport your car to be worth and I'll make a nice $3-$4k flip. WIn win
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usedname (10-10-19)
10-10-19 | 02:57 PM
#12
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 1,056
Likes: 209
From: Florida
Just throwing it out there on pricing. We've all overpaid for something in our lives, likely because we don't have a feel for it. Is amazon stock worth $1700+? Google $1200? My coworkers called me crazy to buy amazon at $175 in 1998 (any guesses what happened).
I like Nike Dri fit golf shirts. Anybody can post a pic and show the tags that say $65.00. There probably is someone on earth who does pay $65.00. But just cuz the tag says it doesn't make it so. A dude was advertising an Alabama shirt for $35, make offer. I offered $22 and he took it. It's new with tags and I bet he got it $10 so that's nice flip.
I would say keep looking online and you'll get a feel, seriously. A week from now you'll be telling us what things are worth, simply because you are in fact looking all around and getting that feel.
When I got my car in 10/16 for $14 I know I overpaid maybe $1500, I know that. It was a FLA car with 81k at a new car dealer. There were some that were $17-$19k that's overpaying even more. It will always exist. When I drove away and the driver door actuator was not working and the car needed new brakes, these were done no extra charge. So that softened the blow of overpaying, as will keeping forever...
It's all about feel, Carfax lowballs, KBB overestimates, they each have ulterior motives for doing so. Just like zillow on a home.
I like Nike Dri fit golf shirts. Anybody can post a pic and show the tags that say $65.00. There probably is someone on earth who does pay $65.00. But just cuz the tag says it doesn't make it so. A dude was advertising an Alabama shirt for $35, make offer. I offered $22 and he took it. It's new with tags and I bet he got it $10 so that's nice flip.
I would say keep looking online and you'll get a feel, seriously. A week from now you'll be telling us what things are worth, simply because you are in fact looking all around and getting that feel.
When I got my car in 10/16 for $14 I know I overpaid maybe $1500, I know that. It was a FLA car with 81k at a new car dealer. There were some that were $17-$19k that's overpaying even more. It will always exist. When I drove away and the driver door actuator was not working and the car needed new brakes, these were done no extra charge. So that softened the blow of overpaying, as will keeping forever...
It's all about feel, Carfax lowballs, KBB overestimates, they each have ulterior motives for doing so. Just like zillow on a home.
At least with AMZN and GOOGL, or most any actively traded stock, one can immediately sell for what one paid, as their markets are very liquid and true current market price information is readily available, As to guessing what happened with the AMZN you paid $175 for in November 1998, no one has to guess. It more than doubled in 5 weeks when it hit $361. Then after pulling back to $300, it rose again, split 3 for 1, and doubled again within 2 weeks to the first part of 1999 to hit almost $200 or the equivalent of nearly $600 pre-split.. (Before AMZN hit $175 in 1998 AMZN had split 2 for 1 in June 1998 after being as high as $100 a share. In early 1999 there was also a 3 for 1 split and later that year another 2 for 1 split) So in less than 2 months of you buying at $175 (a price which was already up 20x from 1997's low) you had nearly 4x your money. But, by September 2001 AMZN had fallen over 95% from its split adjusted high of $113 in 1999, to $5.51. (Of course there would now be 6 shares for each share at $175 in November 1998 bringing share price cost down to less than $30 but still an 80% loss in 3 years,) But, a 1000% increase in price in 18 months to over $60 got shares purchased in 1998 at $175 back to a double in value. Subsequent declines got as low as $26.76 in 2006. In 2009, 11 years after AMZN was $175 in 1998, it was up a little over 17% from that price level. However, at its peak of $2025 in 2018, AMZN was up over 68x from its 1998 $175 per share price and is still up 58x from that 1998 $175 price today.
10-10-19 | 03:00 PM
#13
Lead Lap
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,627
Likes: 286
From: Fl
Well, this was my first time actually driving an LS, or a Lexus for that matter.
It definitely is a quiet car, although still some road noise. Somehow I was expecting an even quieter ride! The steering wheel actually feels tight to me. The acceleration is great, the brakes are phenomenal.
This particular car the mirror switch was out, so no tilt down in reverse. Completely forgot to check the audio. Everything else, including telescopic steering, seemed to work fine. The backseat is roomy, but the seats don't recline. I have not sat in an Avalon either but I think they have slightly more rear space. I wonder if I wouldn't note too much of a difference between the silence of this car and the relative quiet of an Avalon, or an LX470? For reference I am used to a very noisy 05 Accord, and since that car was totaled, my wife's Highlander Hybrid.
It definitely is a quiet car, although still some road noise. Somehow I was expecting an even quieter ride! The steering wheel actually feels tight to me. The acceleration is great, the brakes are phenomenal.
This particular car the mirror switch was out, so no tilt down in reverse. Completely forgot to check the audio. Everything else, including telescopic steering, seemed to work fine. The backseat is roomy, but the seats don't recline. I have not sat in an Avalon either but I think they have slightly more rear space. I wonder if I wouldn't note too much of a difference between the silence of this car and the relative quiet of an Avalon, or an LX470? For reference I am used to a very noisy 05 Accord, and since that car was totaled, my wife's Highlander Hybrid.
10-10-19 | 03:06 PM
#14
Thread Starter
Pit Crew
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 145
Likes: 18
From: CA
And how about that LX470 comparison? 
Immediately after my car was totaled I was thinking about a Honda Element, then decided against it because of the noise factor and mpg. Then it was an ES, then LS. Now I'm undecided between the LS430 and an LX470. Which goes to show I don't know what I want. The LX is pretty quiet, and very roomy, but the mpg is horrid. I wish I had access to these cars for an hour or two so I could really feel them out.
Immediately after my car was totaled I was thinking about a Honda Element, then decided against it because of the noise factor and mpg. Then it was an ES, then LS. Now I'm undecided between the LS430 and an LX470. Which goes to show I don't know what I want. The LX is pretty quiet, and very roomy, but the mpg is horrid. I wish I had access to these cars for an hour or two so I could really feel them out.
10-10-19 | 03:39 PM
#15
Lead Lap
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,627
Likes: 286
From: Fl
And how about that LX470 comparison?
Immediately after my car was totaled I was thinking about a Honda Element, then decided against it because of the noise factor and mpg. Then it was an ES, then LS. Now I'm undecided between the LS430 and an LX470. Which goes to show I don't know what I want. The LX is pretty quiet, and very roomy, but the mpg is horrid. I wish I had access to these cars for an hour or two so I could really feel them out.
Immediately after my car was totaled I was thinking about a Honda Element, then decided against it because of the noise factor and mpg. Then it was an ES, then LS. Now I'm undecided between the LS430 and an LX470. Which goes to show I don't know what I want. The LX is pretty quiet, and very roomy, but the mpg is horrid. I wish I had access to these cars for an hour or two so I could really feel them out.