I used a national company. You can add notes in the Comments section when you sign up for a PPI. I had a few specific things to look at related to the car's prior maintenance history via Lexus, as well as typical stuff per Slee's buyer guide. I haven't talked to the inspector directly, just gave written instructions.
LX 470 vs Landcruiser: Values According to Joe
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You're right, prices are all over the place. Geography has lots to do with it. Mid-Western trucks are usually worth less (not worthless), due to rust.
For reference, I purchased an 04 LX w/ 144k 2 weeks ago. ZERO rust, timing belt / water pump done at 129k, tires 7/32, no accidents, 44 service records, 1 owner for $16,400.00. KBB clean retail 22k, trade-in 18.7k, ave auction price $16.7k.
If you're not in a rush, the right truck will pop-up. These are by no means, rare. If time of the essence, most likely, you'll have to settle for second best. Which, in Landcruiser terms, is better than most...
These three would be my 2nd round. I'm indifferent to an LX vs LC, but those prices are nice. It would be difficult to talk me out of the 90k if the service had been done, but I'm doubting that. The 4th vehicle probably just needs a steering rack. Easy fix.
if you're near the DFW area and you pull the trigger on something, shoot me a PM, and I'll help you trouble shoot or advise on the cheapest route for fixes.
I'm in Ohio too and it was a pain in the ass finding an LC. It didn't help that I only wanted an '06 or '07 without AHC or wood trim. I ended up finding the right one in Kansas. I actually had luck leaving a note on a '06 that I saw while at the park with my kids, unfortunately the owner didn't call me back until the day after I returned to Ohio with the Kansas truck.
My wife/friends thought it was a bit on the stalker side, but I wouldn't hesitate to leave a note if you saw the right truck around town.
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^^ This is not a bad option, as long as they are open to your VERY specific instructions and are willing to take guidance on model-specific issues to watch for. Others will simply do a generic PPI (tread depth, brake pad thickness, temp of AC output, etc), which is only moderately helpful (i.e. better than no PPI at all).
I get notes left on the Avalon in my driveway on a regular basis. I don't mind.
@Toyo72 - how do you like the PPI? Did they check AHC per your instruction? Care to share?
@bctlex The PPI worked out really well. They found some issues with the LX that were not disclosed (or known by the seller) like prior body panel replacement, AHC not raising completely (per my instruction), oil leak, scratches and any chips were shown in very detailed photos. I'd use them again in a second - carchex.com is the company. Just type out your specific instructions in the comment box when you register for an inspection. The inspector didn't follow all of them to the letter, but close enough for me to get the info I needed.
Just a follow up - I took advice listed above and tried to be patient. Came across a one owner 95 LC with 107k. Paid 12,500. Not sure if that's a bargain or not, but this thing is clean with all service records by book. Going for PPI on Monday. If it checks out then I am finally an official LC owner!
You ARE aware that a 1995 LC is an 80 series Landcruiser, not a 100 series, in which case, you will want to start perusing the 80 series forum.
I think he meant '05
Hopefully he meant an 05, that would have been a really good deal. Not so much for a 95.
^ You may be right, that would be an exceptional vehicle especially if it came with the factory front and rear lockers!
A fool & his money are soon parted
Not so sure about all of the above. YES I know it is an 80. Yes I had been looking for a 100. I got involved in this thread because my search for an 80 led me to 100s which led me to Lx470s (found more available). And yes I overpaid to an extent. Just FYI, the guy took my trade for a great price and now I don't have to sell it myself. Also this LC is the cleanest of all I looked at (80s and 100s and both lx). We also needed to dump the trade ASAP. Plus the guy agreed to fix anything minor that shows up in the PPI (already is fixing a few things (seat tracks, rear window arms, and power steering) . Also let me drive it 100 miles home to take to mechanic of my choice. If something is major wrong he agreed to pay for PPI and give me my car back (I havnt actually paid him the difference yet). Also it does NOT have lockers. That's a value factor if I resell. I'm not that interested in the lockers for this vehicle. Actually do Need 4x4, but no crazy stuff in mind. Again why I was looking a little more into 100s. I also looked enough vehicles that were shady and dealt with a bunch of dirty sellers. Finally found one I fealt good about and paid a little more for that.
Finally, whether or not I am a fool or overpaid - I have learned a lot from this forum and several others on IH8MUD, - thanks for all the help, and if I end up keeping the 95 (it's an 80 series by the way) I will continue to rely on all of yall for help. by far the best resource I have found for any vehicle.
Finally, whether or not I am a fool or overpaid - I have learned a lot from this forum and several others on IH8MUD, - thanks for all the help, and if I end up keeping the 95 (it's an 80 series by the way) I will continue to rely on all of yall for help. by far the best resource I have found for any vehicle.
This is so true!
Congrats on your new-to-you 80! Disregard all the silly comments about over paying - every vehicle is worth what's it worth to the buyer. I've seen clean 40th anniversary 80's get into a bidding war at over $15K. Sounds like you got a good deal on your trade so it's really the difference between purchase price and trade we're talking about. Post some pics.