What are the main things to check on high-mileage Lexus cars?

Check the dash and door panels for stickiness since youre in Florida, it was a massive issue. More importantly, listen for clicking sounds from the brake actuator under the hood. If the pump cycles constantly, its failing and costs a fortune. Use a Autel MaxiAP AP200 OBD2 Scanner to scan for hidden ABS or VSC codes before you commit... that part is critical.

I absolutely love the LS460, its such an amazing tank of a car when its sorted! But wow, with a 14k budget you really need to be careful because repairs on these can eat your wallet alive if you arent looking at the right things. The control arm issue is real on RWD too, not just AWD, so dont let anyone tell you otherwise! Here is exactly what you need to check tomorrow morning:

• Listen for a clicking or barking sound when you hit the brakes. That is the brake actuator failing and it costs a fortune to fix.
• Look at the front control arm bushings. If they are cracked, you are looking at a couple grand easily.
• Check the dash and door panels for stickiness. Florida heat ruins them and they get super gross.
• Make sure the air suspension isnt sagging after sitting overnight. You should definitely grab a BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool before you go. It is a total lifesaver for checking hidden codes that the seller might have cleared right before you showed up! Also, if the coolant looks crusty or pink around the water pump, walk away. You want to save every penny for maintenance because these things can be pricey. If you find a clean one though, it is fantastic and will ride like a cloud forever! Just dont rush into it... a cheap Lexus is often the most expensive car you will ever own.

Saw this late but hope you havent left for the car yet. I went through a similar search with my old 08 and honestly the biggest thing people miss is the valley plate leak. Its basically a slow coolant leak deep in the V of the engine. You gotta get a flashlight and look behind the engine block for pink crusty stuff. If you see that, its a huge job at a shop because the whole intake manifold has to come off. Not exactly what you want to deal with right after spending your last 14k. Also, check if the car has the factory air suspension. If it does, look for any sagging when you walk up. Replacing those struts with OEM parts is crazy expensive. Most of us eventually just swap them out for a Strutmasters Lexus LS460 Coil Spring Conversion Kit when they finally pop because it saves thousands of dollars and honestly the ride is still pretty plush. If the ride feels bouncy or you hear a hiss when you shut it off, just be ready for that expense. Since youre on a tight budget, definitely create an account on the Lexus Drivers website and punch in the VIN. It shows the entire dealer service history for free. I did that with mine and found out the radiator was already replaced with a Denso 221-9238 Radiator, which was a huge relief. If you see big gaps in the history, just be careful... these cars are tanks but they still need some love to stay that way.

Been using this for years, no complaints