philmstar

My 2000 and I have been together now for 6 years. In that time she has only cost me several Oil Changes, a set of tires, two O2 Sensors, a set of wiper blades and numerous gallons of gas. I did "splash out" on a full fluids change (Transmission, Coolant and Oil again) last year as a 5 year treat 🙂 I have now increased her mileage from 69K (2013) to 95K (2021) and probably would have hit 6 figs last year had it not been for COVID lockdown. At 21 years old, I'm looking at major suspension maintenance later this year and may change the Timing Belt/Water Pump/Pulleys etc. purely because of age, they were all done back in 2009 at 48K. I consider this expense more than satisfactory, for what has been the most reliable, enjoyable and satisfying car I have ever owned or driven. As an added bonus the popularity of this Model for "Slamming" and "VIP" customising, means it is now appreciating at a considerable rate. 😍

Not sure how easy to mount and any "heat" issues, but I read that half a "Clorox or similar plastic bottle" can save your alternator from the inevitable Steering Pump leak? 😉

I tried at set of 2006 5 spoke LS430 18" with 235/50 Rubber, found the ride "firm" due to less tire wall. Settled for 2004 6 spoke LS430 17" with 225/55 Rubber, now have the look I wanted, but keeping the "luxury" ride. 👍 Pic.1 Original 16", Pic.2 New 17" ($200 for set off eBay 😉)

We have a totally different selection of Batteries over here, but I have always (especially in lockdown) used a 1 Amp "Trickle Charger" when "Lexy" is standing for a while. keeps the battery topped up from minor drain by security system and always ensures a long life for my battery. 😉 Hard wired the connectors to Battery terminals and routed plug into wheel arch. I just plug in the charger when I know she will not be driven for a while. 👍

I just love "cruisin' the freeways over here, "Lexy" is in her element on the long, open roads over here. I recently did a 1500+ mile trip to Idaho and back, she never missed a beat and I got out at the end feeling fresh and relaxed. Returning 27.4 mpg from a steady 80/85mph cruise wasn't bad either!!! 😉 As I said earlier, you could have difficulty in finding one for sale nowadays, owners have realized what a "gem" they have, but also sadly the youngsters have also taken to "slamming" the earlier models with the "VIP" trend. 😞

It is indeed 🙂 Sadly not got out too much recently, due to the pandemic 😞