dealer ok?

[toolapcblack]

Hi all,,

so found a ls250  i quite fancy but the dealers (Finchampstead Motors Wokingham) gets a real mixed bag of reviews on auto trader, some real bad ones. Anyone got any input to help me along thanks

The deal seems a bit to good to be true

[steve2006]

Hello Jeff and welcome to the LOC.

I have never used this company myself but perhaps other members have and will chip in.

The car itself looks clean and straight although needs a good pre sale valet, I checked the MOT history and the mileage is consistent with no failures from the first test. The previous MOT had advisories for all 4 tyres so worth checking if these have been replaced or haggle accordingly to cover these.

The current MOT is short so I would certainly be looking for a fresh ticket before purchase.

As you mention reviews are mixed but seem to have improved recently, the fact they are a dealer provides greater consumer protection regarding any defects that may arise so don’t be tempted by an expensive warranty the law will basically cover this for 6 months.

I don’t know what the £95.00 admin fee is for sounds expensive for sending a V5C to the DVSA so question it.

I think the price is fair for the condition and mileage but insist on a HPI check or do a basic one yourself, if is is previously accident recorded it will also state this on the front of the V5C.

Check the service history with 4 previous owners it probably started with Lexus and ended up at an independent, If you do purchase Lexus normally provide a free check up which will highlight any existing and potential problems.

I would go and take a look if it’s local, better still if you have a mechanic as a friend take them too, any concerns just thank them for their time and walk away.

For other members here’s the link

https://www.finchampsteadmotors.co.uk/used-cars/lexus-is-250-2-5-se-l-4dr-wokingham-202006300668884

 

[toolapcblack]

Many thanks for the reply.

yeah not local to me hence why i was needing advice before crossing the country, it does seem ok though.

 

i have found another at a good price that is on 109000 but only seven service stamps (would prefer a few more at that mileage) everything else seems pretty good accept wondering about this engine bay pic what is the white looking flexs everywhere on the hoses and silencer pad ( see attached)

[Texas]

You Are right to be alarmed as under the bonnet should be spotless, it is very easy to keep clean but that looks suspiciously like it might be staining from a liquid that is coming from below. Ie the water pump has failed and it is splashing up coolant from the pulley/belt when the car is used! The water pump on a IS is a failure point (and at 109,000 it could be original one!) but not a terminal problem if spotted and sorted, not super expensive or difficult and could be a big haggling point!

going back to what Steve2006 said re the tyres, make sure they have fitted all 4 of the same (brand name) tyres If they have actually addressed the mot advice!

Also note that most of the fixings for the engine cover panels are missing! Could be a sign of unprofessional interventions shall we say!