Hey Scotty,
I’m looking for a small to mid size suv (rx300, crv, 4Runner, rav4, etc.) to replace my 2004 Honda Accord V6 Auto, and I’ve found myself leaning towards the rx300 for combination of price, Toyota reliability, and features. I plan to test drive both the CRV (1st, 2nd Gen) and the 1999-2002 RX 300, but in the meantime I’ve found a 2001 Lexus RX with 126k miles for 4500 auto transmission clean title. He claims it is 4 cylinder in the description but I was not aware of this configuration being available. If so, I’m cool with it, as I’m sure it would help with reliability, otherwise it might be a mistake. I’m wondering what the most reliable years are for the RX series. Is it a logical idea to buy one as a daily driver in a lot of city driving circumstances? Does it hold up well as a long distance road trip traveler? Will I find myself breaking down with these? What are some things to look out for? Truthfully I’m just looking for something with low cost of maintenance and a low probability of breaking down or having large repairs such as the engine, transmission, etc. (having the 04v6 auto I’ve always worried about auto transmissions). Just looking for some opinions and hopefully some facts too. Thanks all
I would not consider an old Lexus as a daily driver. The parts and labor are expensive. Picks Toyota RAV4 or Highlander if you need a SUV, otherwise choose a Corolla or Camry.
Apparently a 2001 is NOT the year to buy. I would steer clear of people selling cars who don't know if they have av6 or a 4 (NO 4 cylinder Lexus RX300's were made - the 300 in the name refers to the 3 liter engine - they changed the model name to 350 when they went to a 3.5 liter engine.
Right now, your dollar will go farther with a sedan than an SUV (AKA a station wagon in hiking boots).
