ALES300

If you have a mechanic let him check it out? I think the problem with those years are the oil sludge which is a built up of oil if not properly maintained. I usually check the rotors/brakes that tend to wear out quick and if they have the timing belt replaced at 90,000 miles. Good luck!

Thanks for the tips.

Seller says TB and WP were done a few thousand miles (2-3 I believe) back. Seems out of line with typical maintenance schedule - it either went past by several thousand or he's not being honest. Is the 3.0L an interference engine?

Front brake pads appear pretty new, braking was strong and smooth.

I'm trying to get ahold of the seller to line up a pre-purchase check out.

I want to take it for another test drive. From what I've read they're known to have cooling issues. It's cool out today, but maybe a good dose of stop and go traffic might get it heated up a bit if there's a problem. Where should the gauge normally run? Less than 1/2?

My other concern is the a/c. I realized being a '93 it would have been an r12 system. I hope it's been converted.

If he has receipts indicating that he has done the TB & WP that's great. I still let mechanic look at it and he can test drive it and tell you about the brake pulse feeling and transmission runs smoothly between shifts. You can look at it and it seems okay but the mechanic will take off the wheels he will feel the surface of the rotors and check the pads. Also, if he opens the head gasket to check for oil gel solutions build up. I'm not to sure about the 3.0L an interference engine? It's a 2.6L the other cooling issues should read between 1/2 or less that's normal. If it is a great deal than go for it. Just my .02

If you have a mechanic let him check it out? I think the problem with those years are the oil sludge which is a built up of oil if not properly maintained. I usually check the rotors/brakes that tend to wear out quick and if they have the timing belt replaced at 90,000 miles. Good luck!

I found a 03 ES300 with 22,435 miles on it from Lexus of Silver Spring, MD. This is the second Lexus I have owned, I know the GSM and he gave me a great deal including tax, tags and other fess out the door for $21,000. I drive it on the weekends cause my other half drives in to work M-F oh, well! :chairshot:

I have a 97 ES300 which has 267,000+ K on it. Had a lot of things done. Outside of regular maintenance (battery, tires, oil changes, filters, etc), have had a control arm replaced, power steering belt, tie rods, struts, and starter. The last few well after 200K. Car still runs, but seems that the suspension is shot. Thinking of donating it to charity! :cries: Car was very good for a very long time, but I am a high mileage driver (3-5K monthly).

What are the secrets in keeping them maintained to get these milages?

I'm looking at buying a '02 ES300 with what appears to be no problems except it needs new tires, the windshield needs repair, and the front door driver's lock does not work with the remote or the switch. The vehicle is for my wife. The dealership will put in a new windshield and fix the driver's door lock. The car has 84k miles on it and is selling for $15.9k. Is this a good deal or not? I sign off on the deal either Monday or Tuesday.

Also, do you guys recommend having all service done at a Lexus dealership or is a Toyota dealership good as well?

Thanks.

The 02 ES300 has alot of miles as well as the price is high. I would negotiate it to $12,000 have it look at if you have a mechanic. Also, the time belts need to be replaced soon. Good luck!

ES 300 - 2003

2 owners

$21,000 OTD, Lexus of Silver Spring (Maryland)

Less than 1 month, problems with (alignment, brakes/rotors, belts squeak, mirror virbration)

Lexus dealership in Maryland

2 weeks after purchase, Limited warranty 30 days or 1,000 miles

35% tinted windows all around, all season mats, 18 rims next April from tirerack.com

Age = 36, $1,224 a year

I would replace it at the recommended 90,000 miles.

Anybody would recommend replacements of these stock Michelins that are on my 2003 ES300? They are not good in rain or in upcoming snow. Any suggestions? Thanks!

What year is the 745 it sounds like 1997-2001 before they change it to that ogly body style. Just a suggestion make sure you know a mechanic that can do BMWs. The maintenace on those will cost you easily $1,000 just to look at it. They get more expensive as they get older. The Lexus are not as bad in maintenace cost if you know someone. The Lexus under the hood are all Toyota parts, which is cheaper!