1996 Lexus Es300 -- How Similar To Camry?

[Jason82]

Hi guys!

I recently totaled my 1997 Infiniti I30 and am looking to purchase a 1996 Lexus ES300 with 93k miles for $7800.

I had a question about parts/repairs.... how similar do parts run between an ES300 and a Camry? Parts like alternators, oil filters, belts, brakes and other maintenance parts that would need to be replaced.

[CUMan]

Most of the parts that you mentioned are the same between the two cars.

However, there are some differences. For example, I just encountered this in trying to replace the hood support struts on my 94 ES. The Camry struts will not work without modification.

[Jason82]

Most of the parts that you mentioned are the same between the two cars.

However, there are some differences.  For example, I just encountered this in trying to replace the hood support struts on my 94 ES.  The Camry struts will not work without modification.

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I see. I also undertand that it is due for a timing belt/waterpump replacement. My local Lexus dealership said the cost is $750. Would a Toyota dealership charge less?

And also, is this a good deal: 1996 Lexus ES300... Pearl white on top, silver on bottom... Chrome Wheels. Tan leather interior. 93,370 miles. New brakes/tires. All gadgets work. $7700

[vcv10guy]

The pricing depends on your region, but if it's in good condition and service has been done on a regular basis I would say the price is good. In my area (San Francisco), that car would go for about $8500 in good condition according to the Kelly Blue Book. Usually the cost for the timing belt/water pump is a few hundred less at a Toyota dealer. Make sure the engine doesn't have oil sludge (gelling), which is a possible sign of engine maintenance neglect (use the search engine and you'll find info on detecting and understanding oil sludge). Ask to see all of the service records to verify how often the car was taken in for maintenance. If the owner can't account for it or the Lexus database doesn't have sufficient records for the car, then walk away from it. Good luck!

Sorry about your I30, but glad you're okay. :)

[SKperformance]

FAQ

[Lexusfreak]

Overall (including some mechanicals & underpinnings) the ES is about 25% Camry, the remaining 75% is all Lexus! Good Luck! It's a georgous car. :D B) ;)

[Jason82]

FAQ

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I read it and it answered a lot of my questions. You did a really nice job on that, thank you!

The one question I had was about the timing belt. Since the car has 93k, it needs the timing belt/water pump service. I'm trying to save as much money as I can on the car, so how would you recommend I go about it? Should I simply take it to a Toyota Dealership? My local Lexus dealer charges $750 for timing belt / water pump.

I did a search on the boards here and I found one post where the person said the parts were about $180 online, and labor $170 at a trusted mechanic. Your thoughts?

[camlex]

That is about right.Including TB and Waterpump.

Some people also change Cam seal (2) and Crank shaft seal(1) and pay extra $100.

$500 is cost. I don't pay more then that.

Good luck.

[Jason82]

That is about right.Including TB and Waterpump.

Some people also change Cam seal (2) and Crank shaft seal(1) and pay extra $100.

$500 is cost. I don't pay more then that.

Good luck.

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So $500 for timing belt, waterpimp, cam seal, and crank shaft seal? Or would that be $600?

[camlex]

Total $500

Max $550

Thanks,

[Jason82]

Think I'm going to pass on the Lexus.... it needs timing belt ($500-700) and the valve cover has a nice leak I discovered today when the dealer raised it up on jacks and let me look at the bottom of the engine. Tons of oil all over the bottom right side of the engine bay, fresh oil leaking pretty nicely out of the valve cover. Toyota dealership said it's a $600 fix.

Sooo, the car needs $1100-$1300 worth of work to be up to par, and the dealer is not willing to drop the price any lower than $7700. Sorry Lex, I've got to walk away.

[khhoang]

excellent homework on your part.. save your money and find something else with fewer/minor "as is" problems

[SKperformance]

i agree , fine work on research

keep looking or beat the owner down in price

[Lexusfreak]

Think I'm going to pass on the Lexus.... it needs timing belt ($500-700) and the valve cover has a nice leak I discovered today when the dealer raised it up on jacks and let me look at the bottom of the engine. Tons of oil all over the bottom right side of the engine bay, fresh oil leaking pretty nicely out of the valve cover.  Toyota dealership said it's a $600 fix.

Sooo, the car needs $1100-$1300 worth of work to be up to par, and the dealer is not willing to drop the price any lower than $7700.  Sorry Lex, I've got to walk away.

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Find another ES. :D B)