Tanin

Looking at a 2001 LX470 with 45k miles. Car has been dealer maintained since day one and no major mech. problems that I'm aware of.

What problem areas or concerns should I be aware of at the 45k mark (mechanical, electricial, etc)? With proper care how many miles can I expect from that engine? My wife will drive this thing for the next 5+ years and I'm looking for little or no out of pocket expense..........Am I buying the right car for that?


Thanks in advance.


Kevin

Rx900

u should know the history of the vehicle, whether it has been in an accident or if it is stolen. u should know of any mechanical and electrical problems. Know if the suspension is still ok.

Tanin

Thaks for the response but I was looking for more specifics. I' m well aware of basic do's and don't regarding cars ( I'm an avid car fanatic when it comes German RWD cars and find myself on the track as often as possible.) The problem is that I have never purchased a Toyota or for that matter a full time 4 wheel drive vehicle.

My limited research has told me to look for a crack exhaust manifold and problems with the steering colum motor but looking for any other issues that people have had with the vehicle.

IE. any issues with:

- Hydropneumatic adjustable ride height
- AVS / ABS / VSC
- TRAC
- They went to a 5 speed for for 2002 - ( was there a problem with the tran. in the 2001 )
- How long should the original shocks and springs last ( car currently has 45K)
- at 5,400 lbs how quickly should I expect to eat brake pads


TIA

Kevin

VVT-i

The problem with the Hydro ride height is some independence shop thinks the hydraulic fluid resoivor is for brake fluid or windshield washer fluid and fill it up with wrong type of fluid.
No ABS, TRAC, Transmission or shocks and springs problem so far, even in the LX470 with over 150K.
The brake pads is hard to say because it's depend on the driving conditions, I mean stop and go, highway or drive like a mad man. Normally the pads will last around 25-30k here in Atlanta( in stop and go along with highway)

Tanin

All of that is good news. I will do most the the work myself (if needed) but the Hydro, TRAC, etc. I don't plan on playing with.

Your response and information I have gathered all confim that Toyota built a solid vehicle.

Appreciate the input.


ps. The one thing I haven't checked is if the vehicle will fit in my garage. With stock size tires and the suspension at it lowest setting what is the height of the LX470 (including the roof rack)?

VVT-i

I don't mind to have an 01 LX in my garage if I can afford it. It's a true off road vehicle with some nice touch.
The overall height is 72.8 at normal setting without the roof rack. Added a roof rack is another 3-4", but when you drop it to LOW you have to minus another 2". It's save to say the height is around 74.5-75" or 7 fts+. Here the link to the spec.
http://www.lexus.com/models/lx/specifications.html

mdt525

VTI- You are located in the ATL? I am also in Atlanta. I have a 99 with high miles as well (93.5K). I just came back from a drive to Cleveland on Sunday. Loved the way it handles in the snow.

I can't think of any suggestions, beyond the obvious (records).

BCK

We have an Aug-00 LX 470 w/ 48k.
Eats pads; I guess we drive it aggressively.
Had rotors replaced at 47k due to squeeking.
I think we are on our 3rd Nakamichi front load CD/AM/FM. The first 2 had problems loading discs but this one seems good.
Fog lights when out, had to replace some wiring harness.
At this point, the pwr/etc light is not going on. Not sure if it is just the light or the switch or something else.
So, ... not really up to par w/ Toyota/Lexus standards IMHO but the dealer has been great and my wife loves the car.
-- BCK