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As I mentioned in a previous post, not only did the guy do the 90k service but he sent me receipts showing he poured $5000 into it just a few months ago replacing parts that were worn or just for preventive maintenance. Everything from timing belt to power steering pump to alternator to windshield wipers to hood struts to seals and plugs. Plus Mobil 1 synth every 3 or 4 k for the last few years. A family situation forced him to sell unexpectedly. I even felt a bit sorry for him. That's why the mechanic doing the safety check looked at the inside and was stunned at all the stuff that had been done to it. He was obviously meticulous about maintenance, and unlike most private sellers had kept detailed service records. Hey Blake918, if the Leatherique (I presume this is the Rejuvenator and Pristine Clean set) is just sitting there, would you mind selling me about a third to a half of the stuff for a modest price? I'd very much like to try it. PM or let me know how to contact you. Thx. Let me try to attach a pic of the car. It's Ebony Teal in color. Thats a great price, I paid about the same price for mines with 99k...it's a great car capable of many many more miles. Did the previous owner have the 90k done yet? Is the leather just dirty or is it actually a little worn out? ←

Just a followup on another post. The 1995 LS 400 I bought for under $9K is here. Less than 95,000 miles. Haven't driven it much yet, but so far it's fantastic. Seems smooth, and drives better than most new cars. Clean, nearly new tires. The guy who sold it seems to have been absolutely true to his word. Looks in overall good shape, with only the leather looking a bit tired. But I think that can be cleaned and fixed up with the right conditioners. In the worst case, I'll apply Leatherique next spring. Had it safety inspected and the mechanic said that it was in good shape overall. He couldn't believe the price I paid for it. Said it will make a good daily driver. I'll have a more formal/Lexus inspection later. Looks very promising! I just have to use my PC and some sealants and waxes to get the paint back up to snuff. But that will have to wait till the weather clears. Dang! I wish this car had arrived last week when the sun was shining! But happy to be joining youze guys. And crossing my fingers that this doesn't turn into an expensive albatross. [That's my wife's theory. She doesn't trust a 9 yr old car from ANYBODY.] :whistles:

I haven't seen many more posts on this. Does any one have current info on good independent Lexus/Toyota places to take cars in for service in the St. louis area? I'm getting a 1995 LS 400 and I don't want to go to Plaza Lexus or Mungenast if at all possible. Especially for things like oil, transmission and routine maintenance. Thx.

It sounds like a nice car, but having just completed a buying run, I can say that I received offers for 96 LS 400s with under 100K miles for $12000 and could have gotten a 97 LS with 120K miles for a tad over $12K. Several 97s with 110K were at 12,500 Maybe offer $10-$11000 if you like it.

Yeah I am, but it's hard to read this forum upside down. :D My wife says she'll be surprised if a working car even shows up (She doesn't trust the NET at all) Thx guys. I'll let you know how I make out.

Isn't this basically the same info you get at Autopia? I have the CD. And any advice on what I should do (mechanically and inspection-wise) when I get the car?

Finally did it. I'd like to thank you all for advice. Took a chance on Ebay. Got a 95 LS 400 with 95000 miles for a bit under $9000. The guy had recent receipts showing extensive maintenance at about 92k with new tires, timing belt, power steering pump, seals, oil and air filters, starter, etc. Nearly $5000 worth of work. Lots and lots of closeup pics of the paint and interior to convince me it was in good condition. Working air suspension and Nakamichi audio. Clean Autocheck. And above all, I felt the guy was honest and had credible reasons for having to sell so soon after his maintenance repairs. Perhaps I'm in for a big surprise when the car arrives in a week (having it shipped) but compared to local prices, I figured I have room to spend a little on a few more repairs and still come out ahead. [self delusion?] I'm both nervous and excited at joining the club. I plan to have a mechanic look it over to tell me any bad news after arrival. I'm looking forward to detailing the exterior [i follow Autopia and Detail City] Any words of advice?

I'm about to get a 95 Lexus which has an air suspension. It still works but I want to think ahead. Where are the best places to buy OEM struts or afteramarket conversions? What is the current consensus on buying rebuilt air suspensions?

[How do you see miles versus the model year? I've seen decent 1997 LS 400s for about $12K with 120K miles. Is this better or worse than the 96 LS with 98000 miles for $11k.

Hi guys. New guy trying to join the club. Read through the buying guide but want any suggestions you can give. Does a 96 LS 400 with about 98000 miles sound ok for $11K? I will get a chance to bring it to a mechanic but since the guy is driving in from 2 hours away, he said that I had to be ready to pay for it if the mechanic gives it the thumbs up. It's black with gold package. New tires and regular service. 2 owner. He says he spent a lot to refresh the leather interior (has receipt). He has service receipts. One small ding. No other scratches or scuffs. My best guess is this guy is honest and meticulous. (I've talked to a lot of different sellers). Thoughts?