Rx400h 2007 is it worth buying?

[Becwarr]

Hello! 

 

So much information on previous posts I got confused. 

Me and my husband had a 2005 lexus rx300 but it was written of last year, since then have been driving my fiat 500, but with baby number 2 on the way we both agree it's time for a bigger car. Both love the lexus and have been looking at rx400h, with our budget we have found one with 96k miles and 1 previous owner which we both like. 

We don't know much about cars in general, so could anyone give it too me straight, is it worth buying? My concern isn't the mileage as our previous lexus had 150k+ & ran solid. I am worried about the hybrid Battery and how long this lasts/would it need replacing or is the chance slim... any owners out there that could help us with info or what too check for when buying would be appreciated!

[FredD]

I had one and can say that they are very solid and reliable cars and as you I would not be worried about the mileage. What is important is to check that the car has been serviced regularly (annually) preferably by a Lexus dealer, the last service also should say about the state of the electric Battery. Assuming the price is correct and it has been serviced annually by a Lexus dealer then I would not be too concerned. 

[Greisingel]

I bought mine at 100K. It has proven robust and reliable. There are some things to check like leaks around rear seams, that the belt has been changed (in your case likely not as its around the 100K mark to do). Check for underside rust. And this forum is excellent for any future glitches you may experience

Good cars. Plenty of poke and passable MPG for the weight. Mine is 20 years old now and still going strong. Would recommend. A tad dated in terms of tech bells and whistles – but frankly some of that stuff is overrated.

[Becwarr]

Great! Thanks for your replies @Greisingel and @FredD... I shouldn't worry about the hybrid Battery then?

I will make sure I check the service history and for leaks 🙂

[GSLV6]

Check the service data, and when the hybrid Battery check was last done.  The Nickle Metal Hydride batteries do last longer than Lithium which is one reason Toyota/Lexus use them but much over 15 to 20 years old and you may have to budget when you buy for replacing the Battery pack at an Independent service provider which is cheaper than Lexus but would still be around £2.5K.  If you could stretch to a slightly higher miles RX3 (ie, later 450h as there's plenty about on the used market at very reasonable prices), that might prove the safer bet wrt Battery life.  The other thing to check is rust, especially rear sub frame.  They are prone to it if left unprotected.  The only other things which may need looked at given the age are the water pump (these have been known to leak on RX400 series engines) and the condition of the suspension trailing arm bushes which are prone to wear due to the weight of the car, and not a cheap fix (no pattern parts AFAIK?).

Engine, if regularly serviced, should be good for 300K miles, easily.