VikingLS

Dont know if this is okay to ask for, being a newbie and all, but I had seen similar requests in the LS400 forums so thought I would give it a shot here. If anyone can help me out it would be very much appreciated! If it is not a proper request please let me know. VIN: JT8BD68S6W0039768

Never had a Lexus, but plenty of Toyotas, including my 95 Avalon with 197k. Here in the Midwest, I am currently looking hard at a 98 GS300 with the following characteristics: * 140k miles * 2 owner, 2nd purchased CPO very early * 100k service has been performed * Timing Belt has been replaced * Service outside of oil changes performed at dealer - owner has service records * The radio LCD display is fading * Options: Leather, heated seats, CD, moon * Asking price 7300 With the service history, and planning to put 25k per year on the car, does this make sense to do? Is the LCD issue a quick fix? Also what are some other things to investigate on the '98? Lastly, does the 98 have an Interference Engine? Many thanks!

Thanks so much for your honesty and expertise!!! I'll keep looking, and to tell you the truth, my 12 year old will be happy since he didnt like the color in the first place and whichever car I find will probably end up being handed down to him in a few years.... BTW, is the database accessible anywhere on the Internet or is it strictly thru the dealer?

Well I am definitely not a DIY type of guy for the involved stuff, so I am not too sure about revamping my suspension. So if I switched to regular shocks would I be losing that much? Also, how can I found out what the COMPLETE 100k service involves - I can call any dealer with the VIN # and they can tell me that, right?

salesman found the following, so it does have air suspension "There are 3 rocker switches next to the transmission shifter instead of 1 rocker switch. They are marked Sport/Normal, Height and ECT Pwr/Norm" So this is the only thing I dislike about the car without viewing it in person. It is a 1994 with 128k miles, all seen in the Midwest. On the high cost of replacement, do I turn my head and run away from the car? What is the typical life of the OEM suspension parts/shocks?

I am looking at purchasing a 1994 with 128k on it near Chicago. I have been reading the FAQs posted here on what to avoid, and how can I verify if air suspension is available or not? Thanks!

I usually check out eBay for a reference, but to buy a car on EBay is another matter. Buying a car on eBay = divorce :)

good to know nc211, thanks! Also, it is a dealer and since they took it in on trade and it had 2 previous owners how can I find out maint history? Lastly, they are asking 7500, Edmunds says 6700 - if I get them down to that is that a good deal? Finally - used to be a Knight fan, until he really went off the deep end and couldn't recruit anyone worth a hill of beans. He is a tool now, just like his protege Alford!!

Thanks so much! The one I am looking at is a 1994 with 128k, two owners. The car is north of Chicago so right now I am doing some long distance fact finding with pics and if it is worthwhile will make the trip. Incidentally, from the pictures this 94 has every single option available, including air suspension - it that something to worry about? Also, it is a dealer and since they took it in on trade and it had 2 previous owners how can I find out maint history? Lastly, they are asking 7500, Edmunds says 6700 - if I get them down to that is that a good deal? BTW - Yes Hoosier, but gramdmother lived in Norlina, NC so am a big Heel fan to boot!

Hi to all, I am new to your forum. After having a long history of Toyota's (currently driving a 95 Avalon with 196k on it), I am in the market for my first Lexus - I have been looking at the LS400's from 1990 to 1996 which are in my price range. I understand the best scenario is to find a used one with one owner who was religious about maintenance, but waht are some issues with the 1st and 2nd generation I should know about before purchasing? Also I read that 90-94 engines are non-interference engine and therefore a timing belt failure will not harm the engine (but 95's will) is that true? Many thanks!