I am wanting to purchase a 2010 Lexus IS 250 AWD with 182k miles automatic trans from an individual for 8k. I’ve seen the car fax and showing regularly and well maintained. I know this isn’t the best to rely on but only an indication of maintenance. 2 owners, no accidents and drives like a dream. I’ve spoken with ‘their’ mechanic and all good reviews…of course. I, on the other hand haven’t a trusted mechanic and have no idea where or who to take it to. I came from a 2019 Kia Forte (boring) and sold it to Carvana.
should I chance it?
Update….I purchased a scan tool and My mechanic gave it a pass big time! He said it’s more than worth the asking price (especially with the prices today!) so I bought it. The only recommendation the mechanic was to have serpentine belt changed and have tires rotated and balanced. I consulted with her mechanic (who has a 2013 is 250 )and informed me that it’s been well taken care of. He gave me the rundown of services and that replaced spark plugs 20,000 miles ago, transmission serviced 15 k ago.
It sounds and drives like a dream. All the electronics work perfectly (even the back window window curtain.
Taking a chance on any used car so I’m taking my chances on this one. I’ll enjoy it while I can. There’s so many Toyota prods out there with high mileage at exorbitant prices right now.
Good stuff 👍
That is a GDI-only engine (with no port injection) - and therefore can have carbon buildup - on a luxury car coupled with high mileage and AWD. I know it’s a Lexus but it’s at the point where repairs can get expensive. I would personally pass on it.
I had read a lot about CDI and AWD, definitely my concerns but then I watched Scotty with the review of the 2008 Lexus IS 250 and was hopeful. I talked with several mechanics and they said buy it, of course that’s w/o actually seeing it and based on my description and my test drive. . One said he would buy but take it for fuel induction service and he didn’t have the equipment to do it.
I actually wasn’t going to entertain buying it but keep coming back to it. Suppose I’ll try to find a good mechanic. My problem is limited income at this time
that's a lot of miles. I wouldn't touch it with a 10ft pole without an inspection.
Well at least there’s hope in your answer.
the only hope would be if YOUR mechanic gave it a pass, and you got it for a very good price. Because a luxury sedan isn't the cheapest thing to maintain.
It may be a Lexus but you are not getting the same reliability as the IS 350. The IS 250 has GDI which isn't known to be very good in any year of the IS 250 and they all suffer from carbon build up and they can get expensive to repair. I would pass and maybe look for an IS 350 or another Lexus that's more reliable.
I would definitely pass on it; not worth that price at that high of a mileage (it's Lexus so just the name makes it more expensive).
Run away.
