Looking at a 98 LX470. This would be my first Cruiser. I've read the Slee info on what to look for, dug through he forums, read the FAQs, and I am mechanically inclined person - I have done restorations, R+R'd motors, etc. So I think I am pretty well prepared.
The LX I am looking for is in pretty good shape, needs some general TLC on the outside. Clear coat not peeling, no rust, no damage, should clean up nicely. Might need a timing belt, not sure yet. It has all new suspension bits up front, almost new tires. No noises or leaks coming from the engine, starts and runs smoothly. The seats even have new leather on them. Does throw a CEL light, don't know what code yet. The best part is, the price is a killer at $5000!
BUT (isn't there always a 'but'?)... It has 268K miles. It was a lease originally, best I can tell, and the Lexus dealer records ended at about 60K. So it's history is a big mystery. Checking the VIN shows its had, at best, two owners since lease, maybe only one. It has two accident reports, but they were a long time ago and I can't see any evidence of repairsm so they were minor or done right.
Should the mileage worry me? I know Cruisers are pretty bulletproof with the right maintenance, and this one is checking all the boxes.. and that price!!! But still, mileage is a worry. I've never had any vehicle with that kind of miles on the clock. Anything I should be checking for??
Thanks!
Mark (in Orlando)
The LX I am looking for is in pretty good shape, needs some general TLC on the outside. Clear coat not peeling, no rust, no damage, should clean up nicely. Might need a timing belt, not sure yet. It has all new suspension bits up front, almost new tires. No noises or leaks coming from the engine, starts and runs smoothly. The seats even have new leather on them. Does throw a CEL light, don't know what code yet. The best part is, the price is a killer at $5000!
BUT (isn't there always a 'but'?)... It has 268K miles. It was a lease originally, best I can tell, and the Lexus dealer records ended at about 60K. So it's history is a big mystery. Checking the VIN shows its had, at best, two owners since lease, maybe only one. It has two accident reports, but they were a long time ago and I can't see any evidence of repairsm so they were minor or done right.
Should the mileage worry me? I know Cruisers are pretty bulletproof with the right maintenance, and this one is checking all the boxes.. and that price!!! But still, mileage is a worry. I've never had any vehicle with that kind of miles on the clock. Anything I should be checking for??
Thanks!
Mark (in Orlando)
