Prospective Buyer What To Look For?

[Mick1836]

Just started researching for what year to purchase and first note is post 2005/6 shows upgrades and 6 speed auto box apart from asking the dealer/owner how would one differentiate between a 5 speed and 6 speed car?

Next, whilst looking through previous posting within this site I see several references to continual problems with the electric ariel, was this an initial promlem that Lexus had with their early cars which they later sorted on later models or did they continue to fit problem ariels and even replacement ones?

Other matters learnt so far.

Don't buy model with run flat tyres.

Problems with the metal TPMS valves.

Roof should open/ close within 25 sec

Any others to consider?

Obviosly the checking of every fitting and device will be essential but not easy on an unfamiliar vehicle, this is where I hope the members and current and ex SC430 owners can help?

Thanks for any help and advice you can offer. Mick

[ColinBarber]

I'd certainly aim for getting a 6 speed example. Faster, smoother and more economical. The easiest way to tell is to look at the gear shifter. The 5 speed has a conventional pattern:

P

R

N

D 4

3

L 2

The 6 speed has a manual sport mode with sequential shifting:

P

R

N +

D S

-

Also the shifter surround is a grey colour on the pre-facelift 5 speed vehicles and silver on the facelift models.

[Mick1836]

Thanks for you reply, I see the model is fitted with its own sat nav, how easy is it to upgrade it to the latest maps? I currently use a Garmin and previouisly Tomtom.

[ColinBarber]

It is an easy procedure but expensive as only Lexus discs work. A new disc set is around £150 from Lexus, these normally contain multiple discs to cover the different countries in Europe. Some people purchase these discs and then split them so you can pick up the main western Europe disc which covers the UK on eBay sometimes for £60.

You may prefer just to stick with your Garmin.