LXPearl

I don't like the aftermarket tinting on windows - it is a maintenance hassle and reduces visibility - potential safety problem. The LX already has tinted solar windows, so additional tint is problematic. When I look for a vehicle (new or used), if it has tinting I pass and keep on looking.

Hope you found your info and a manual by now. If not, if you register your vehicle on the Lexus web site you will have access to download the owners manual. When you start moving, the AHC will automatically move to N from either L or H. The 4 wheel cross symbol is your Center Differential Lock (CDL) and should only be used off pavement or in slippery conditions. It is for getting out of a stuck condition. On dry pavement it will be very hard to steer without buckling effects being felt in your suspension. It is also used in some off roading conditions to lock all 4 wheels. With the 2000 model you will rarely need the CDL engaged, even off road, because you have TRAC. The small gear shift is your 4WD High/Low selector. To change you stop, put trans in N and the selector in N, then move to either H or L. Once engaged, then you can put your trans in gear and move on out.

The 4.7L is considered an interferance engine, meaning that if the timing belt breaks you will mess up your engine.

The hood protection I have seen on an LX is the clear plastic type application along the front 6-8" of the hood. From a distance it is not too noticeable, but I don't care for its looks up close. I suspect with time the coloration difference with the rest of the paint will increase.

I have used the Lexus cleaner with pleasing results. I always follow the cleaner with the conditioner. Generally, I routinely use the conditioner and only use the cleaner when cleaning is needed. Leather is soft and supple and I get comments from passengers about how soft the leather is. I have natural creases but no cracks. Leather quality is outstanding, better than any other vehicle I have owned except maybe a former Landcruiser I owned.

The Landcruisers and LX470s prior to 2003 had an optional Class III hitch under the bumper and they were rated for 6500 lbs. In 2003 the bumpers came standard with a built-in hitch that was rated at 5000 lbs. If you install one of the "old style" hitches, then it will handle 6500 lbs. The 7500 lb hitch likely is a rating with a weight distributing configuration.

I use top tier gasoline that has been certified and listed on toptier.com to be certain the gasoline is not the problem. I use Redline Fuel System treatment (SI-1) available at a number of auto stores such as Advance, AutoZone, and Pep Boys, etc. It cleans the whole fuel system and I have been pleased with its performance in my vehicles. I got started on the Redline because the Toyota dealer gave me the tip about using it on my Previa van. Sometimes if the LX starts up rather rough, I can turn it off and restart it and everything is smooth again. This happened on my old battery during the past year. It gave out this summer and the rough running on start up has not re-occurred with the new battery.

The vehicle should have the maintenance schedule booklet in it to show you what should be done at different mileages. Find out if the owner has maintenance records. Get the VIN and go to any Lexus dealer and have them pull a record of all work done (at Lexus dealerships). A well maintained LX is of greater value than the average one. If the choice is available, I would pick a 2000 or newer for reasons Jim Chow mentioned, plus there are some other nice features added that you don't really notice until you start using the vehicle. I favor 2001 (Levinson audio system option added). In 2002 the NAV became standard for those who like it. In 2003 the 5 speed trans was added along with newer styling.

The LX470 has individual coils with each plug. The beauty of that is not having spark plug wires and only replacing what needs replacing. I am surprised the plug is bad - it is an iridium plug that should last 120K. The coils do go out however, but you only have to replace the one that goes out- not all of them.

The 30, 60, 90, 120 K miles are the major maintenance periods. At 60K you will primarily be changing fluids, filters, lubricating, checking various components, and making necessary adjustments. One item not always noted is to drain/refill the AHC fluid at 60K. The timing belt is scheduled at 90K and the spark plugs at 120K. If you register at Lexus.com on the owners page, you should be able to view the owners manual and the maintenance log. Make sure the maintenance log is for the SUVs; at one time the sedans were displayed.