Lexus GS300 what to look for?
Lexus GS300 what to look for?
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Discussion

exelero

Original Poster:

1,974 posts

107 months

Friday 16th June 2017
quotequote all
I'm thinking of getting one of these but I don't really know what are the usual issues with it. I'd like the older shape (MK2?) the one before 05. I understand they are RWD and 5 speed auto. What are the common faults?


PS: Should've posted in the Jap Chat but that thread is not as active as this one

MorganP104

2,605 posts

148 months

Friday 16th June 2017
quotequote all
Something in the back of my mind says ball joints and timing belt.

Other than that, the GS300 is a pretty reliable sort of a motor.

Usual rules apply in other areas (service history, big stack of invoices, multiple keys, matching decent brand tyres, etc.)

exelero

Original Poster:

1,974 posts

107 months

Friday 16th June 2017
quotequote all
Lower arms as well or just the joints?

MorganP104

2,605 posts

148 months

Friday 16th June 2017
quotequote all
The general consensus on this is that you'd usually replace both at the same time (especially if they are the car's original units, or are badly worn items).

exelero

Original Poster:

1,974 posts

107 months

Friday 16th June 2017
quotequote all
Thanks Morgan

confused_buyer

6,883 posts

199 months

Saturday 17th June 2017
quotequote all
Earlier examples had a problem with the brake master cylinder which is actually a unit with an electric pump which "pre-charges". They can leak and/or the pump gets weak and they "time out" building up pressure which brings up the VSC/ABS/Brake warning lights.

I think Lexus fitted a revised design part way through the model's production life but it is expensive if it goes.