KarlChilde

I have found an 07 LS460 on Craigslist with 88k miles on it. It sounds like the owner has kept on maintenance with a local Lexus specialist. I haven't been able to obtain these maintenance records yet but I am going to be able to soon hopefully. He is asking 11k for the car which seems like a very good price to me. I've never owned a Lexus and am getting very nervous about jumping into this after reading some of the potential cost associated with some maintenance.

My question is there anything I should really be afraid of? I really don't want to get in over my head with potential repair costs if that's a real possibility. Scouring through various forums and review sites has left me very confused. One side says the car is completely bulletproof and then other places warn of staggering repair costs for little things like a starter that ended up costing over a thousand dollars. Any thoughts?

Dave144239

Everything is expensive if you take it to the dealer. The only thing that I would (and did) avoid is the air suspension, as it's pretty much guaranteed to cost you money at some point.

With an '07, you could be looking at replacing control arms, if that hasn't been done already. It's RWD so I believe it's pretty cheap when you go with aftermarket parts.

As with any older car, things can go wrong. However, the engine and transmission seem pretty bulletproof, and things like water pumps are cheap and easily replaced.

KarlChilde

I am fairly certain this one does not have air suspension. This made me a feel a lot better. I watched my father pay the price for having air suspension in a Buick.

FatherTo1

Hi Karl, most here will recommend that you first create an account at http://drivers.lexus.com/lexusdrivers/ . Doing so will allow you to enter the VIN of any Lexus vehicle and see its entire maintenanc history, provided the services were performed at a Lexus dealership (or maybe Toyota dealership too, I can't recall for certain).

As mentioned already, control arms were a common issue with 2007-2009, and some 2010. The brake actuator can also be an expensive repair. There are some reports of wind noise in 2007/2008, and some of the door sensors can become stuck and drain the battery. Just get a pre-purchase inspection (~$160) at a Lexus dealership and you should be able to know with confidence whether the car is worth it or not to you. $11K seems ridiculously low to me, as in salvaged price. Hopefully that is not the case and no major accidents. Perhaps this particular 2007 doesn't have the Mark Levinson audio upgrade nor many other options. Still is a very nice car, even if completely "base". Good luck and hope that helps.

wasjr

That is a very good price. I just looked on Craigslist where I am, and the cheapest 07 is a used car dealer asking $16.2k with 80k mi. I would definitely check service records and confirm with the mechanic. I gave 13k in October for my 07 w/72k mi from a client (I have been familiar with the car since she bought it in 07). The Lexus dealer (where all service was done) alleged they could easily sell it for 16-18k.

KarlChilde

I just checked out the service history. It was at the dealership for road noise several times and a few minor things. Most recent work was ale and elf campaigns. The history drops off fairly early besides the campaigns. From what I understand I believe he has been getting his maintenance done from a non dealer Lexus specialized mechanic.

From looking at pictures showing how to tell if the car has certain features I do believe this one is pretty close to base. He told me it has a clean title. I would have already gotten much more hands on but his schedule is slowing this down a bit.

Thank you for the pre-purchase inspection suggestion I was completely unaware of that.

Nospinzone

Welcome to Club Lexus, and hopefully you will become a card, or car, carrying member!

I really don't have anything to add to the excellent info you have already received. I would only emphasize to have a competent mechanic inspect the car. The price is very low which raises a little concern to me, and add to that the seller seems to be a little inaccessible.

These cars are very reliable, and even a base Ford or Chevy can be expensive to repair. If you have a good local mechanic, he can do just about anything the dealer can do and probably at a third of the cost.

Keep us updated, and don't worry if you miss out or decide to pass on this one, there will be more opportunities.

KarlChilde

I really appreciate all the feedback. The owner being hard to get moving does seem like a shady sign but I have stalked that down pretty well. Looks like he is a physician. I honestly even found a google maps photo with the car sitting at his office. All creepy stalking aside I am afraid that if it seems too good to be true it usually is. I will definitely contact the Lexus dealership in his town and see if they can squeeze in an inspection for me when I get to drive the car which I hope is Friday.

roadfrog

These cars are dead reliable. Even the issues you MIGHT encounter will NOT break the bank....unless you take it to the dealer.

R Z

Greetings. I second the Lexus inspection. It's worth the piece of mind. I know that I truly enjoy my Mark Levinson sound system. So, that would be an important feature for me. Otherwise, go with your gut. these cars are awesome. Good luck.

fwhomeboy

https://chattanooga.craigslist.org/c...431900003.html

It looks like a good deal. If it has a clean title and no wrecks.....

Dave144239

It has the ML audio too.

KarlChilde

Yeah that's it. I also think you can make out Mark Levinson badging on it. I contacted the Lexus dealership about the inspection. Hopefully everything will fall in place tomorrow. The Lexus service gentleman did point out it will be due for it's 90k maintenance and that it is one of the bigger ones.

fwhomeboy

I'm still waiting for ideal car to show up around me. I'm holding out for another deal like I got the first time. Good Luck Sir.

wasjr

It does look good, and apparently garage kept. Based on the map, it is near my cousin. I grew up in Chattanooga.
When you have it inspected at Lexus dealer, ask if they will print you a build sheet. If not you can sign up at the Lexus Owners site, email them and they will send you one.
Good luck.