mpol99

Found a great deal on the perfect LS, exactly how I want it: 1 owner, clean history, spotless inside and out, all dealer service records from new, 100k mi for $22.2K. Lexus ppi came back clean.

the bad: It doesn’t look like the previous owner ever changed the spark plugs or replaced the brake fluid. My instinct tells me that it’s no big deal. Anyone agree? Anything else I should look for?

LS430FL

I always look at every service interval and then compare it to the records and see if it was done. I use anything not done to my advantage during negotiations. You did a PPI so you are already a smart buyer.

Julez

Is the Lexus PPI generic or fairly detailed? Will it tell you suggestions like x will probably need to be addressed soon or just indicate if there are immediate needs? Never had one done before so just curious. Thanks

mikesrx350

sounds like you found a nice car

did you check make sure there is no paintwork or body panels replaced?

the spark plug replaced is not an easy do it yourself job, budget 500 or $600 for it

good luck

Dave144239

I've seen plenty of posts where people checked the spark plugs at 60k miles and couldn't see any signs of wear, so I wouldn't be concerned about that. I don't plan to change them until 100k miles.

Muddy

If the car was maintained at the dealership, I would expect the brake fluid to be changed every 30k miles. I don't see any reason to skip it, the brake fluid service isn't expensive. Do you have a copy of the service records, or looked it up on the Lexus Drivers website?

mpol99

I checked on the Lexus Drivers website, then called the dealer to confirm that it wasn’t done (they confirmed).

I asked the dealer doing the ppi to check and they said that it looked “clean”. I’m driving 5hrs tomorrow to pick it up, can’t wait!

Dolph1

Thanks for this information FunFact. My dealer recommended a brake fluid exchange for around 100 bucks but I will pass as I don’t like paying for simple tasks. I may inquire about a brake fluid flush as this is well beyond my capability. Under what circumstances would you recommend a flush? If brake fluid hasn’t been changed for way too many years is that a reason to do a flush or should you actually have a brake problem before spending money on a flush?

rick3242

I have a 2010 with 72K miles and did a flush Tuesday. It brakes like a brand new car definitely money well spent in my opinion.

sktn77a

iTrader: (2)

You should have got a printout of what they did and what they found (or didn't find). I hope they gave you more than just a verbal "it's clean"?

Bocatrip

I agree, Paint and or body work would be a big consideration of mine in addition to service records. Other than bumper covers, if you suspect any paint work, I would suggest looking further into it to avoid a heavy hit.