Looking To Buy Older Lexus Rx

[JimiDread]

Hi

Just joined and I am looking to buy an RX as I need a 4x4 in the family

Have had various 4x4 but not too up on Lexus range

Looking at price that probably means an older MkI model - around 2002-3

I have reasonable mechanical knowledge and loads of auto history so know what to look for with gearbox condition etc but any specific model issues will not be known

My requirements are

• Mechanically sound - reasonably clean visually
• Auto/Petrol
• SatNav if poss but better than the old version I have in my 98 LS400 which is bit all over the place

Couple of questions if anyone can offer advice

1. Are there variants within the model so would a 98 model have less than a 2003-4 model - SATNAV etc - I have a chit somewhere showing the LS evolution year on year - does that exist for the RX range?
2. Are there any know issues with the RX Early range - i.e. Soarers have Fuel ECU issues and Display capacitor issues - that I should pay extra attention to
3. Would anyone advise against a MkI for any reason other than its a bit ugly and older than the MkII
4. Is there a better engine option in the range - RX300 or RX400 or whatever they do - are these lumps based on the LS/GS engines in a different body?
5. Is the RX a "4x4" in the REAL sense - it won't have Diff Lock etc I assume but is it permanent 4 wheel drive or like the CRV, Front drive with Limited Slip Diff? - are there any variants on this?
6. I understand the RX has 16" wheels as standard, what are default tyre sizes 16/55/215 or around this mark?

Any info very much appreciated

Cheers Chaps

JIM

[ColinBarber]

The RX came to the UK in Oct 2000. Anything earlier and it is an imported Toyota Harrier. As it was only available for three years there were no major changes in grades or specification, essentially the face-lift model was the one brought to the UK in late 2000. I believe there were two grades, base and SE with Nav available as an option.

A possible reason to get a series II, other than improved looks, is better fuel economy and a much better 5 speed auto transmission. The series I has a 4 speed (3 speed + O/D) transmission and whilst there have only been one or two failures reported here it seems to be a weakness of the vehicle.

Only one engine size in the UK. It is a V6 engine, also used in the Toyota Camry, fitted transverse. It isn't based on the GS/LS engine designs. As a Toyota Harrier I believe there were also a smaller 2.2l and 2.4l engines.

Yes it is a permanent 4WD with a limited-slip centre diff. This was the only option in the UK. Other markets also had just a front-wheel drive option.

[JimiDread]

Many thanks for prompt and concise advice.

Just what I'd expect from a class forum

Will take this on board

Original thinking was the 'add on' rear quarter reminded me of when Jaguar made an estate in the early 80's but the mkII roofline limits what can be loaded

Auto box info is paramount as this is the bit where you scrap the car if problems arise

Thanks again

[JimiDread]

Read a lot on Wili about the MKI and for cost it wins hads down for my purposes. I have a 98 LS with 4 speed box and bulletproof. Drive one today that was as shabby externally as I have ever seen a car - EVERY corner bumper was destroyed but it drive like a dream and the object was to see if the lady wife took to it. Now reserved different RX to pick up Saturday hopefully. Be a 3 Lexus family - as it should be.

[JimiDread]

On Wiki even - Speelcheck Ha!

[plastic orange]

I'm also think about an RX to compliment my LS400, but they all seem miles away as usual. I'm hoping to try one to see if my wife likes it as it will be for her. I really don't want a hybrid or CVT, nor air suspension, so it's looking like an RX 300 SE will fit the bill. There is one about 100 miles from me that seems ok, so may travel for a look - only 69,000 miles too.

Pete

[ColinBarber]

Read a lot on Wili about the MKI and for cost it wins hads down for my purposes. I have a 98 LS with 4 speed box and bulletproof. Drive one today that was as shabby externally as I have ever seen a car - EVERY corner bumper was destroyed but it drive like a dream and the object was to see if the lady wife took to it. Now reserved different RX to pick up Saturday hopefully. Be a 3 Lexus family - as it should be.

Sounds good. I'd recommend changing the transmission fluid, just a drain and refill two or three times over a week or so making sure you only use Toyota T-IV fluid.

[JimiDread]

Colin

Thanks for advice. The seller is a family run affair in Nottingham who sold it 1 year ago and then bought it back after the owner couldn't afford to run it so they know the car and I trust them. Mate of mine has garage and does all my car work so will get them on it as soon as collected...hopefully.

Mr Orange ;0)

If your wife is confidant driver, would suggest she'll love it. My lady took to it like duck to water and divorce pending if I don't get one so...

[plastic orange]

Sods law, the one closest to me sold yesterday.

Pete

[JimiDread]

Picked up the RX300

Made 1 fatal mistake - believed the dealer was genuine!

Didn't pay as much attention as I should have and 3/4 issues

1. NEver noticed the rear passenger side headrest was missing - we think the rear courtesy cover was draped over the seat but we should have noticed that! (Anyone with a spare cream leather rear headrest they don't want please shout and sure we could work out a price!)

2. Rear wiper not working - washer ok - will check fuse and then fault find if needed

3. Front cigarette lighter socket not working - won't charge Phone either - as above

4. Very slightly cracked driver side outer rear lens - bought spare on eBay

5. No SatNav installed or not connected - need to check to see if fitted or removed. Can anyone tell me if MKII 2002 RX has HDD or DVD system and if part number available, would be chuffed.

Car advertised with FSH which dealer said was nit yet available but he would forward - have taken print of Ad just in case it doesn't materialise and Trade Standards need to get involved.

Otherwise, a doozy!

3.0 V6 just waking up at 171,000

Gearbox, OD, Kickdown all smooth as silk

Beautiful inside with CD changed and 7.1 all working

Metallic Black very clean and all Lexus boot liners and floor mats excellent

5xLexus 17" alloys with no scuffs

Bargain still at £1.9k

Wife chuffed to bits and if 'keeping up with Jonses' not most important in your life, why spend £3k+ More on the newer shape with less loading capacity?

Cheers all

Jim

[ColinBarber]

5. The MKI (not MKII?) has a DVD based system. You will probably find it isn't a Navigator vehicle. They all have the touch screen and the Nav button which will just say not connected when pressed. The wiring it there so you could install a Nav unit in the boot but you would also need a GPS aerial and possibly changes to the audio system to allow voice commands to come through the drivers speaker.

[JimiDread]

Cheers Colin

Yes mate MKI facelift I guess - still getting to grips with terminology and generations.

I test drove a 2002 RX locally which did have the Sat Nav so I assumed it was standard.

What you explain is exactly what I am seeing - 'External Drive is Not Connected' or similar.

Is the DVD on the 2002 model under the cover in the boot on the RH side or should it mount on a bracket just to RH side of the spare wheel well?

I will look into this then - nice to have rather than essential.

Have you seen the Sat Nav working?

Is it quite a stable image as the Sat Nav on my 98 LS400 is a bit Mickey Mouse with judder, dodgy graphics and a nightmare to shut up once the woman starts speaking.

Are these options outlined in the a Workshop manual - looks like this needs to be my next purchase