2001 LX470 with 250K

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Joined
Oct 7, 2021
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1
Messages
6
Location
Minnesota
Hello, first time poster, and I heard this the place to get questions answered. I am looking at a 2001 LX470 with 250k miles. Timing belt and water pump replaced at 243K. New radiator, all new fluids. Car is in excellent condition inside, the outside there is a couple small rust spots that are minor, but it looks like a 5-7 year old vehicle. New tires on it as well. There is a clean carfax with about 50 dealer service records on the truck, no accidents reported. No major underbody rust. There is a speed sensor on a front wheel that needs to be replaced. It is getting a PPI done today. Asking price is 9900. Wondering if this seems in line with what people would pay, and if there are any other major tings to look out for. Thanks in advance.
 
In MN with basically no rust, thats worth it all day.
Sounds like the previous owner took good care of it with preventative maintenance. Every truck you see under $10k is going to have some little repairs needed like the speed sensor, dont worry about that too much.
Pending PPI I'd say go for it.
 
PPI came back - any of these raise any issues - leaking power steering pump, leaking A/C, rear brakes pulsating, seeping oil on oil pan, seeping transmission fluid...
 
I assume it's this one 2001 Lexus LX 470 1 owner - cars & trucks - by dealer - vehicle... - https://minneapolis.craigslist.org/ram/ctd/d/saint-paul-2001-lexus-lx-owner/7388144231.html

Need underbody pics to determine how bad the rust is. The items you listed will probably cost 5k to fix at a shop. Twin cities only has one good shop for 100s, Carspec in Eden Prairie. His lead time is about a month. My 100 is actually there right now for an alignment.

IMO, spend an extra 5k-10k to get a southern truck from someone on this forum that has been maintained by an enthusiast. You'll probably save money in the end.

Also, last dealer service record was in 2005 according to Lexus.
 
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I'll disagree with the above. That looks very clean for Minnesota and you probably don't need to worry about the seeping oil or trans fluid. You might need rear brake rotors, but that isn't expensive. The only thing you probably really "need" is to fix the PS leak--also likely easy. If it is otherwise what you want and in your budget, I say go for it. That is not a bad price in this market.
 
I assume it's this one 2001 Lexus LX 470 1 owner - cars & trucks - by dealer - vehicle... - https://minneapolis.craigslist.org/ram/ctd/d/saint-paul-2001-lexus-lx-owner/7388144231.html

Need underbody pics to determine how bad the rust is. The items you listed will probably cost 5k to fix at a shop. Twin cities only has one good shop for 100s, Carspec in Eden Prairie. His lead time is about a month. My 100 is actually there right now for an alignment.

IMO, spend an extra 5k-10k to get a southern truck from someone on this forum that has been maintained by an enthusiast. You'll probably save money in the end.

Also, last dealer service record was in 2005 according to Lexus.
No it’s not that one. But I appreciate the advice on it and will most likely look in that direction.
 
PPI came back - any of these raise any issues - leaking power steering pump, leaking A/C, rear brakes pulsating, seeping oil on oil pan, seeping transmission fluid...
Also a fully rusted out sway bar that needs a welded bracket.
 
I ended up passing on it. The gentleman selling it was great and upfront on everything and I’m sure he’ll have a buyer in no time, I just was not that interested in going through that many fixes for a vehicle I was going to have my 16 year old drive through the winter. I appreciate all the input on the questions.
 
I ended up passing on it. The gentleman selling it was great and upfront on everything and I’m sure he’ll have a buyer in no time, I just was not that interested in going through that many fixes for a vehicle I was going to have my 16 year old drive through the winter. I appreciate all the input on the questions.

It seems that it had a bit more rust that expected then.... One note though--you likely aren't going to find a ~20 year old vehicle that doesn't need some kind of repair, maintenance, or extensive baselining. If you do, you will likely pay a premium. With the exception of fuel economy, these are excellent vehicles for teenagers (also cost of repairs stinks if they play bumper cars).

I wouldn't be scared off due to minor maintenance issues, especially if you have some basic hand tools and are willing to get your hands dirty. Everything than can be known about these trucks is contained in this forum, and there are plenty of folks willing to offer assistance in knowledge or in-person help from local cruiser folks.
 
It seems that it had a bit more rust that expected then.... One note though--you likely aren't going to find a ~20 year old vehicle that doesn't need some kind of repair, maintenance, or extensive baselining. If you do, you will likely pay a premium. With the exception of fuel economy, these are excellent vehicles for teenagers (also cost of repairs stinks if they play bumper cars).

I wouldn't be scared off due to minor maintenance issues, especially if you have some basic hand tools and are willing to get your hands dirty. Everything than can be known about these trucks is contained in this forum, and there are plenty of folks willing to offer assistance in knowledge or in-person help from local cruiser folks.
Thanks for the insight. I think you’re correct and I am going to have to up my spending limit . I’m bummed but eventually I’ll find one.
 
I'm not a huge fan of a 100 for a teenager. Mainly due to the poor braking distance and ease of rollover. If safety is priority look at 03+ for the side curtain airbags.
 
I'm not a huge fan of a 100 for a teenager. Mainly due to the poor braking distance and ease of rollover. If safety is priority look at 03+ for the side curtain airbags.
I totally get it, but as with many things, there are pros and cons. I see the risk of rollover as a consequence of increased situational awareness. I can see slow downs on the freeway easily 30 seconds earlier and it allows me to anticipate situations and avoid emergency maneuvers. As far as the braking distance, I don't see it as bad for the size of vehicle, but the habit of leaving a little extra space is a good one to learn early on.

If anything, I wish it was a little slower
 
My 2002 with 265K is from Texas. I have very complete service records. The vehicle does have some scuffs on it, and the driver's seat is torn. Steering rack seeps a bit, and brakes may need work eventually. I'd let it go for $8,500.

 

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