Should I Buy A Rx300?

[aklexus22]

I have the option of buying a RX with 50000 miles and in need of a new tranny--OD doesn't work. Know the history of the vehicle and am able to pick it up for $6000 looking at about $6200 to fix. whadayathink?? I'm a newbie and would appreciate any response

[RX in NC]

I wouldn't even consider it. There's no way that a 2000 RX300 would be worth more than $12,000 which is what you say you'll have to spend in order to buy it and then get it in driving condition....

[jgr7]

That sounds like a good deal on the car but the price for the transmission seems pretty high, most here talk about $4200-5000 at the dealer and $1500-1000 less than that at an independent shop so I would do a little more research on transmission prices. Other than the trans is the rest of the RX in good condition?

Jeff

[aklexus22]

Vehicle was just used by an older gent to go golfing--barged up here from Colorado this summer. Price also includes both anti-knock sensors. Body, tires, interior in good condition. Recent trade at dealer was a 01 with 26000 went for 18500.

[lexrx3]

From what I've read pre 2001 had a lot of tranny problems. You're confirming it too with the tranny replacement. From what I know now I wouldn't advise buying it.

[tmastres]

From what I've read pre 2001 had a lot of tranny problems. You're confirming it too with the tranny replacement. From what I know now I wouldn't advise buying it.

In all fairness, you know coming in that it will probably need a new tranny so thats really a moot point and its factored into the cost. A new trans should cost under $5000, as JGR mentioned, more like $3-4k. Have the engine checked for sludge and if its clean you should have a fairly nice vehicle for at or around $10,000.

[carguy07]

Who diagnosed the tranny? There are several things that can keep it from shifting into OD besides a bad one. Knock sensor, 02 sensor, MAF etc. Any codes?

This one might be a steal for you!

[carguy07]

Vehicle was just used by an older gent to go golfing--barged up here from Colorado this summer. Price also includes both anti-knock sensors. Body, tires, interior in good condition. Recent trade at dealer was a 01 with 26000 went for 18500.

Uh, I just re-read your post. How about some more info on those knock sensors. I'm getting my $ out to bet the tranny is fine.

[lastplace]

If you need a replacement tranny check your local junk yard. I've been told trannys from 02 & 03's will work with 99 & 01's. 02+ tannys are better. Our local yard has an 02 hit in the rear. The tranny is already gone.