Buyer's questions

[dekhelia]

Hi all, new to the forum. Not a Lexus owner yet, but am looking at a few different GS300 examples from around '95-'97. Is there a 'buyer's guide' thing on this forum? If so, would be grateful if someone would post a link ... which might then make the following questions a bit redundant, but anyway:

I'd like to get a GS300 from the above years (not keen on the later 4-headlamp look, although obviously having a V8 would be ace), and was wondering what are the main things I should check for. A long MOT goes without saying, history of cambelt change ... obviously the more history the better, but I've found a 1995 Legato with 40k miles, and a 'Brooklands' from '97 with 82k miles - does the mileage on these matter greatly, or is it more a question of service regularity?

I understand  that parts can be expensive: is there an established/decent quality aftermarket ... err, market?

I was going to ask loads of questions, but maybe I should leave it at that for now. Appreciate your responses.

[Bluesman]

Hi Nick and welcome to the LOC, we are a friendly bunch and some of us even know how to pull them to bits and put them back together again, with of course the one bolt and washer left over.

We recommend you spend a couple of mins looking over the rules of the LOC, we will be asking questions later.

http://www.lexusownersclub.co.uk/terms-conditions/

 

Regards Mike

[steve2006]

Hello and welcome to the LOC.

Main thing is a good preferably Lexus service history, mileage not a problem with this in general. There is an oil filter which feeds the VVTI system which is very often overlooked and causes problems when clogged, cheap to replace and takes minutes DIY.

They are a heavy car so check suspension and listen for knocks, brake caliper slider pins seize but normally respond to regreasing unless stuck in completely. I think the braking system on the MK1 is conventional servo unlike the troublesome later model which had a pump system.

There are a lot of toys in these cars so press every button and make sure it does what it should.

Parts are expensive but a lot cheaper from the USA or amayama even with the carriage and VAT.

Feel free to post up links for potential buys and we will comment both good and bad.