Hey Scotty!
My grandparents are giving their Lexus to our family, it’s a 2004 Lexus RX330 with just a few miles over 140,000. It’s running pretty well with the exception of a small leak from either the power steering or coolant (pink/red clear liquid). The inner CV boot needs replacing (torn and leaking). A pinion seal by the rear differential is leaking. And there is some small lifter noise and needs spark plugs and coils. Trans needs servicing due to some minor slipping and rough shifts into drive. Water pump was replaced already a few years ago. (Assuming timing belt changed too when that was done). Interior is just short of perfect. Paint is perfect. Minor surface rust underneath. Garage kept.
Is it worth putting about $1,000 dollars or a little more into it with parts, labor, fluids all changed? Since the car is old (yes it’s “Toyota”) and that at this point isn’t worth much. Just worried more parts will just continue to get old and break and be more money wasted. (College student)
If a honest mechanic tells you that the engine & transmission may still last a while, sure go ahead.
However, from what you’ve said, it looks like it wasn’t maintained well by the previous owner, and/or the fluids & oils weren’t changed as per schedule.
@inthrustwetrust
Oil changes were done early or on schedule. It was a daily for my grandparents. They don’t know much about cars, but had work done on it as needed.
It's odd to hear a Toyota/Lexus transmission start to slip at 140,000miles.
Price out all the work that’s need doing in the near future & then take a call because Lexus parts are expensive.
It might be a good car but not for a college student.
If I were you, I would try to find a Corolla or Civic to avoid all the cray costs of Lexus.
