1998 or 1999 for DD

[offroadzero]

Hi, I learned about the LX470 through an old coworker who never went off-road but loved Lexus vehicles. All I needed at that time was a sedan so I bought a '99 LS400 two years ago. I still have it, love it, and will keep it forever.

I do need another vehicle for work (transporting somewhat large packages but not really heavy). No construction or anything like that. Plus I've always wanted a larger ride for trips with multiple people. With its reliability and longevity, the LX seems a great fit.

No plans to go off-road. I've read so much about the 470 and the differences throughout the years. You guys have posted great links and great information altogether. Thank you so much.

With no plans to off-road, does the 2-pinion matter? I want the '98 or '99 because it seems simpler and I don't care for electronics. I'm trying to avoid '00/'01 because of transmission, and '02+ because of NAV/18". (I have read many concerning posts about the VSC and am conflicted; my LS has VSC and has never suddenly taken over on a freeway bend, but my LS is also not an LX.)

I only have around $8k-$10k to spend and I want to save as much of that as I can for post-purchase maintenance.

I'm just worried how everyone talks about this 2-pinion breaking and then I'll need expensive lockers to remedy, lockers that I most likely will never use.

Thanks for any input.

 

[gil12]

Any driving in snow, ice, conditions that might cause one wheel to spin then catch? If not, I'd not worry much.

 

[offroadzero]

Any driving in snow, ice, conditions that might cause one wheel to spin then catch? If not, I'd not worry much.

No sir, I don't venture into the mountains and don't plan to. My idea of nature is trail walking flat terrain. Thank you for your input!

 

[neckbone]

If i had that budget, I think I’d be good with either. Just look for the best maintained and least worn interior. My bet is you can find a great one for $8k if you look for a while. Don’t get emotionally tied to one until you own it, but be ready to plop down the cash quick when it comes. And you may have to travel to get it.

 

[TXLX100]

I have a 98, no issues driving it 8-10k miles a year for many years. Like mentioned, find one that's been cared for, is highest importance. Paying $10k for one might be a great deal. $7k might be an awful deal if it needs $5k in work.

 

[BullElk]

I bought my '99 LC a little over a year ago for $2800. It had 312k miles on it. I have put 44,000 miles on it in the woods every single day. No problems at all with axles.

 

[Dox]

I drive 50k a year in a 98 I picked up 18 months ago. I ranch it and wheel it and will never get rid of it.

 

[95Fantasma80]

my 01 has 0 transmission problems

go for it the newest and best cared you can afford!

 

[SmoothLC]

With no plans to off-road, does the 2-pinion matter? I want the '98 or '99 because it seems simpler and I don't care for electronics. I'm trying to avoid '00/'01 because of transmission . . .

No, unless you call crawling over the curbs at the mall off-road. J/k - seriously, you'll be fine. If I weren't planing to go off-road the LX would have been my first choice. And even off the tarmac, it's still a great ride, or so I'm told.

 

[MTKID]

I read about issues with this 2-pinion but I can’t seem to break mine even with a little larger tire than most. I kinda want it to happen to finally force the gears & locker I really want. I’m not trying to kill it and try to drive moderately slow offroad.

Purchased at 133k, now at 228, daily driven and wheeled a few times a year.

Your use doesn’t seem to warrant any concern. Like everyone else said, purchase the best cared for and maintained one you can afford.

 

[ScottyD]

Ive got a 98 that shows battle scars from offroading. Pretty much a dd now. Love it! 120000 miles on it for $10200 when i bought it six yrs ago. 189000 miles on it now. Will probably be buried in it. Only service I've had to do was tires, starter, and some exhaust work.