Greetings and LX470 questions

[Jesse Blom]

Hello,

I have frequented this site off and on for a couple of years and finally decided to become a member because I am on the cusp of finally becoming the owner of one of these fantastic vehicles! My interest has always been centered around the outdoors and 4-wheeling but haven't had the resources to be an owner, until now. Interesting thing is, the wife is on board because she loves the vehicle more than me, go figure. Now then, to the important stuff. I have the opportunity to purchase a 2000 Lexus LX 470 with 230,000 miles. The vehicle had the timing belt changed at 168,000 miles and overall appears to be in fantastic shape for it's age. The interior and exterior are just amazing!!! Took it for a test drive and everything seemed to function normally aside from a slight front end shimmy at 65mph, even the telescoping antenna works!!! So, I would pose these questions to the ones who know, you guys. Does 230,000 miles scare you on a vehicle like this? I have heard of them going 300, 400 or even 500,000 miles. What should be the major concerns for me to concentrate on when going back to make a more in-depth inspection? I realize the obvious things, oil levels and condition, leaks, engine noises, squeaks, inoperative equipment, etc... What do you think of the 4.7L engine? It seemed pretty peppy when I drove it, very responsive. I would value the input of the folks on this forum because you know!! Any information would be greatly appreciated. The vehicle is listed for $9995.00, but I don't think the dealer realizes what they have. Thanks again, and I am happy to be part of the site.

 

[Sandroad]

I also test drove a LC with 230,000 miles and it was tighter and in better condition than some vehicles with almost an order of magnitude fewer miles. Pretty amazing. The shimmy could be a lot of things like tires or wheel bearings. If it's been going on for a while, other parts could be worn too. One thing to try in a really complete test drive would be to rotate the tires front to back and drive it again. As others will tell you, at that mileage, the history of care is what matters most. Lexus will be able to give you a record of Lexus service and see what you can dig up on how well it's been cared for. With good care, I'll bet a 4.7L will run many more years. Any rust to worry about?

 

[timer00]

I bought mine at 197k with the timing belt being done @ ~170k. The 2nd owner had records from 23,000 miles up to current which is the biggest thing to look for in a used one (records) The LX's you should make sure the AHC suspension system works good and the fluid levels are ok along with the color of the fluid. (Records of the AHC being serviced even better)

I checked mine out outside, inside, underside and test drove before I decided on the purchase.
Sounds like the LX your looking at is pretty good for the most part. Just check it over inside and out.

 

[Jesse Blom]

I also test drove a LC with 230,000 miles and it was tighter and in better condition than some vehicles with almost an order of magnitude fewer miles. Pretty amazing. The shimmy could be a lot of things like tires or wheel bearings. If it's been going on for a while, other parts could be worn too. One thing to try in a really complete test drive would be to rotate the tires front to back and drive it again. As others will tell you, at that mileage, the history of care is what matters most. Lexus will be able to give you a record of Lexus service and see what you can dig up on how well it's been cared for. With good care, I'll bet a 4.7L will run many more years. Any rust to worry about?

The exterior of the vehicle is immaculate. There is a single spot on one of the doors where the paint is chipping. Other than that, nothing. I do have the carfax on the vehicle and it seems to have a fairly good history of maintenance.

 

[dustbowl]

you didn't mention price. the miles don't bother me as i have a 99 model with over 200,000 miles on it and it is very dependable and the tightest car i have ever owned. but to be realistic there just aren't to many people out there who will buy a 200K car so the price should reflect. i would expect to get another 100K before it has too many problems and then i still wouldn't expect it to be a hard car to own,just look up the service history on the Lexus owners sight with the vin number.

 

[Jesse Blom]

you didn't mention price. the miles don't bother me as i have a 99 model with over 200,000 miles on it and it is very dependable and the tightest car i have ever owned. but to be realistic there just aren't to many people out there who will buy a 200K car so the price should reflect. i would expect to get another 100K before it has too many problems and then i still wouldn't expect it to be a hard car to own,just look up the service history on the Lexus owners sight with the vin number.

Price is $9995.00

 

[sailor95]

I have a 2000 470 that ran great up to 288k with all original ahc parts, then I was a dumb and blew the diff in a mud hole way to deep. Don't be afraid of the miles, if maintained these will rub forever.