MoreOrLex

I misread the estimate and thought it was $180 for everything. It wasn't super clear on the sheet, but ultimately it was my fault. My big take away was never drop off your car when you're in a hurry. More to the point, I was just wondering if others have been quoted the same for these dealer services.

Just had my 2010 450h w/80k miles serviced no charge for a rear squeak under certified warranty. The dealer wasn't sure if it was shocks or bushings, but got corporate authorization to replace shocks. If noise continues, bushings will be next. Dealer told me that 2010 RXs - 350 & 450h - were known to be fitted with undersized shocks and that my new shocks are larger and heavier duty.

Took my 2010 450h to a dealer for warranty service to replace rear shocks and decided to do the minor 80k service at the same time. The shocks were free, but the service cost me about $300! The 80k svc - basically an oil change and safety inspection - cost $121 labor + $60 parts (synth oil, filter, gasket, remote battery). They also said a "preventative 4-wheel alignment" is recommended - another $130. I knew my tires had normal wear and were fine, but I agreed nevertheless. By comparison, the local Lexus certified indie shop charges about $70 for the same 80k service - including parts. Granted, they don't have massaging chairs, hot popcorn or wash the car like the dealer. The dealer was very nice, but even with the amenities it seemed a little outrageous. Am I wrong?

Too bad about Jerry. I wouldn't go with a 3rd party warranty; they're notoriously hard to "collect" on. I don't know if AWD is any better, but it that's the only configuration I've seen in certified, used RX 450h's. They all seem to come with the premium and comfort packages as well. Mine also has a towing package. In 2010, the head-up display was part of the "luxury" package. If you decide to go with the high-mileage car from an independent dealer, make sure all the service records come with it. That's good advice - thanks!

You're right - I called around and with that mileage Lexus used car warranties are only available from Lexus dealers at time of purchase. And famous Jerry from Midwest has been essentially shut down from selling non-local plans by Lexus corporate after dealers nationwide complained he was undercutting them. In my price range, I can either go for deluxe equipped hi milers with 3rd party warranties (or no warranty) or nicely equipped with a CPO. It's a close race. I'm sure I'd survive without heads up, but still wonder if AWD is that much better than 2WD.

It's an indie non-Lexus dealer so no CPO and that's why I might consider a Lexus platinum warranty. My current 11 year old car has the same mileage and needs an expensive timing belt soon, so it'd be nice not to face that. I'm also worried about electronics and other non-mechanicals - time has taken a toll on those things in my current car too.

While shopping for a used 450h, I've come across a tempting but high mileage 2010. I've only seen pictures but it looks real clean in/out and seems nicely equipped (Comfort, Premium w/12 spkr, Xenon, etc) plus has uncommon features I'd normally be priced out of like AWD and heads up display. Starting price is low - $31k - but mileage is very high - 96k. If the maintenance history is good, is it worth it? Do I need to worry about all those miles in only four years? For the right price I'd consider adding a Lexus ext warr, but what should I look out for and what big ticket repairs would I likely face in the near future?

I haven't been able to find specific info for this, so my apologies if this has been covered before. I'm shopping for a '10 or '11 RX 450h with 20-50k miles but wondering what the additional dollar value of a CPO from a dealer is compared to a comparable non-CPO/private party car. If I felt the need for extended warranties (and I'm not 100% sure they're worth it), a trustworthy 3rd party contract in CA would range from $2k and higher. Is a CPO's value similar? As a 9k/year driver, I expect I'd have another 6-18 mos of factory basic bumper-to-bumper left on any car in that year range, as well as 24-36 mos of orig powertrain and 48-60 mo of hybrid system coverage. Mechanically, it seems a CPO might be a near wash if a non-CPO price was low enough. But are there expensive (i.e. $1000+) non-power train or hybrid items (like Nav system, power controls, etc.) I should be worried about that might go after the basic warranty expires? Am I wrong or missing something? Thoughts? Thanks.