Opinions needed on a used LC100

[KCcarguy]

I've been considering trading the 4runner for a LC100. I found a used one with low miles that's in generally excellent condition, but there's one thing holding me back from jumping on it. There is some rust underneath the truck and it seems like a lot for a truck with low miles (less than 30k, but it is a 2005). Carfax says it's from NJ, so I'm assuming it was driven in snow/ ice and put away without washing the salt off. Is this amount of rust an indication of worse things to come? Is it bad enough to require treatment, or just normal surface rust? The rust on the rear axle seems excessive to me. Tell me what you think...should I walk away?

 

[ironhippy]

That's not a lot of rust for a truck from New Jersey, however I would think you could find a rust free one from down south.

If you did buy that truck, a bit of rust treatment would last a long time, but if I could get a rust free truck, I would hold out for that.

I hate dealing with rust, all my vehicles have had more surface rust than pictured, rust increases the time it takes to do any mechanical work.

 

[KCcarguy]

Thanks for the advice. I'll probably pass on this one.

 

[Thai]

KC, what are you plans with TLC100? Expedition or just on-road or just camping?? What is your budget?

 

[KCcarguy]

KC, what are you plans with TLC100? Expedition or just on-road or just camping?? What is your budget?

Well, I'll use it as a DD and family hauler (for at least 5 years, maybe more) and, hauling, hunting, camping, fishing, boat towing. I guess I just want a tough-as-nails truck I can use for about anything and keep for a very long time.....basically why I bought the 4runner.

I personally believe that the days of real SUV's are numbered (even the LC200 is a downgrade IMO). I want to get a good one while I can, then maybe buy a commuter car in a few years when gas prices force me too.

I love the 4runner, but my gut (and the flimsy hood bouncing as I drive down the highway) tell me this isn't a 200k-300k mile car. The 4runner is also getting a little cramped; my wife hates the short seat cushions and low roofline.

At this time, my budget would be about $35-40k. I'd like to keep my payments about the same as the 4runner. If I can't find anything and get the 4runner paid off, I might splurge and raise the budget to $50k-ish.

Why do you ask?

 

[Thai]

Why do you ask?

For me, gas prices are definitely going up. If i am going to splurge for something that gets low MPGs, then it must be amazing! TLC100 is a good SUV for sure. But, i would rather get the Lexus LX470 simply for the better interior treatment, adjustable suspension (even tho higher maintenance), and projector headlights. In addition, the Mark Levinson sound system is superior to the JBL.

 

[KCcarguy]

The only thing holding me back from a LX is the "L" on the front. I work at a small town hospital and everyone would make a big deal out of me driving a Lexus. Ever seen the episode of Seinfeld where he buys his dad a Cadillac?

 

[Thai]

The only thing holding me back from a LX is the "L" on the front. I work at a small town hospital and everyone would make a big deal out of me driving a Lexus. Ever seen the episode of Seinfeld where he buys his dad a Cadillac?

I understand...but damn, you can always tell people that it is just old used junk.

Just look at this one: Lexus : LX WE FINANCE!! in Lexus | eBay Motors

This is somewhat near where i live. The people selling are very well-respected because they are like CarMax. You can see that the leather still looks brand new. And this is ONE owner in Houston...so, no salt on roads to deal with in its life. The other reason why i like Lexus better is that most owners are old farts and don't abuse their cars. Land Cruiser owners are old farts too...but a few are enthusiasts and that can be for better or worst.

And on a side note, you can tell how careful the previous owner is with their car by the tires that they buy. This one has Michelin tires...instead of Bob's brand tires!

If you are serious about the above LX, then just tell me. I can eyeball it for you and take more serious pics on Monday or Tuesday (this coming week).

Good luck with your search!

 

[Thai]

This is also near me: Lexus : LX 4DR SUV in Lexus | eBay Motors

This one's interior does not seem as pristine as the other white one. But, this one has the Night Vision option (very rare).

 

[KCcarguy]

Thanks Thai. I'll give those some consideration. Still leaning toward the LC though. :cheers:

 

[Thai]

If so, then why not get 2008 TLC?? Most 2008 TLC (200 series) goes for just under $50k. Yes, the minor off-road stuff went soft...but the frame is much stronger. The traction control system is better/stouter. The suspension is stronger from what i hear. Bigger engine without losing much MPGs. Better stereo system...the JBL is much better than TLC100's. Not sure, but i think that USB is available.

 

[KCcarguy]

I've thought about a 200. Other than the price, I don't like the fact that the 3rd row isn't removable. I'd be open to it.....maybe even a 2009+, but for that kind of money, I'd have to sacrifice my second car (M3).

Do you think build-quality has changed from the 100 to 200? Personally looking at them, the 100 just feels more stout. The body panels on the 100 are much thicker (though I know this doesn't indicate strength). Interior panels on the 200 seem cheaper as well. I also prefer the styling of the 100.

I need to look for a 100 vs 200 write-up on Ih8mud or something.

 

[Maritimer]

That axle is rusting on the driver's side, as there is more salt down the middle of the roads. For paying the money you will be, and for what you want--solid and for a long time and you being down south--I'd pass.

 

[Thai]

I need to look for a 100 vs 200 write-up on Ih8mud or something.

Why look elsewhere...see: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/comparisons-reviews/56558-2008-up-toyota-land-cruiser-lx570.html

IMO, even tho i was lukewarm when it first came out, given the choice, i would pick TLC200 over TLC100/LX470 in a heartbeat! The frame is stronger. You have KDSS for max suspension travel. You have better & stouter traction control and CRAWL. It meets all current & future crash test standards, which i assume means better rollover protection. You get more power with similar fuel economy...what not to like?! (I still think that TLC200 should have gotten the 10.5" rear axle of the Tundra.)

IMO, the fixed 3rd row is weird, but the cargo is big enough for use with most stuff. The ONLY thing that i truly hate in the TLC200 is the fake wood paneling. Explain to me why a vehicle costing $80k+ has horrible fake wood...my old Corolla fake wood looked better! Two things i figure: 1. Toyota is extremely cheap; and/or 2. The TLC200 is so over-engineered that it truly does cost $80k to make and thus no money leftover for more convincing wood paneling (or aluminum etc.).

 

[Northeast_T4R]

Being a 4Runner and LX470 owner, I would choose the LC100 or LX470 over the 4Runner in an instant if it was only DD. The truck drives far better, is built much stronger, has more room and if you ever want to built it up, there are more options than you have with the 4Runner. Just check out this link.

100-Series Cruisers


I love my 4Runner and will never sell it and I do think it is easily a 200k vehicle, but the Lexus is a sweet ride and will easily take 200+K and have a better resale value.

Just my two cents.

 

[Northeast_T4R]

Why look elsewhere...see: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/comparisons-reviews/56558-2008-up-toyota-land-cruiser-lx570.html

IMO, even tho i was lukewarm when it first came out, given the choice, i would pick TLC200 over TLC100/LX470 in a heartbeat! The frame is stronger. You have KDSS for max suspension travel. You have better & stouter traction control and CRAWL. It meets all current & future crash test standards, which i assume means better rollover protection. You get more power with similar fuel economy...what not to like?! (I still think that TLC200 should have gotten the 10.5" rear axle of the Tundra.)

IMO, the fixed 3rd row is weird, but the cargo is big enough for use with most stuff. The ONLY thing that i truly hate in the TLC200 is the fake wood paneling. Explain to me why a vehicle costing $80k+ has horrible fake wood...my old Corolla fake wood looked better! Two things i figure: 1. Toyota is extremely cheap; and/or 2. The TLC200 is so over-engineered that it truly does cost $80k to make and thus no money leftover for more convincing wood paneling (or aluminum etc.).

One thing you loose that some consider small is the Hi-Lo shifter. This is infamous with SUV's that have gone soft. Take it from a 4th Gen 4Runner owner who ripped out the stock transfer case and put in a twin stick. At least the 5th Gen Trail Edition 4Runner has reincorporated it back into the design. The LX570 is nice, but you get more bang for you buck with the LX470 & LC100. I had fun pulling an LX570 out off the beach this past summer with my 4Runner......

My 03 LX470 looks like new and drives like new. I was left feeling pretty dissappointed when i looked at the interior of the LX570. I also think it lost some of it's distinctness becuase it just looks like a large version of the Highlander.

Just my two centsand people buy vehicles for differnt reasons.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

 

[Thai]

I had fun pulling an LX570 out off the beach this past summer with my 4Runner......

My 03 LX470 looks like new and drives like new. I was left feeling pretty dissappointed when i looked at the interior of the LX570. I also think it lost some of it's distinctness becuase it just looks like a large version of the Highlander.

Just my two centsand people buy vehicles for differnt reasons.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

Well, a LX470 with stock tires would be stuck in sand too with a bad driver.

Where do you feel that the LX570 interior is inferior to the LX470??

And i doubt that anyone would confuse a LX570 with a Highlander!

 

[Thai]

I love my 4Runner and will never sell it and I do think it is easily a 200k vehicle, but the Lexus is a sweet ride and will easily take 200+K and have a better resale value.

Just my two cents.

I don't know...LX470 (esp. your year) has issues with starter, exhaust manifolds, electronic shocks, etc..

And i don't really know about resale value either. My brother got pennies for his 2001 LX470...the market is narrow at that price range. More people know and can buy a 4runner on the used market.

 

[Northeast_T4R]

Fortunately, I spent quite a bit of time on the IH8MUD forums specifically under LC100 and LX470 threads. These threads outlined known issues and things to watch out for and be concerned about for each year. None of the items you mentioned seem to be on "watch out" list excluding the automatic height control (which is NOT electric and if and when it does go, I already have an OME lift planned for it.). I have had zero issues with my Lexus as well as with my 4Runner, Sienna and Highlander. I believe that the people with the most issues, tend to maintain their cars improperly or bought the vehicle from someone that has not.

Everyones has got their own opinion on things, which is great. Like I said "I am not a fan of the new LX570 design". The interior just looked cheaper to me for 65-80K vehicle. The design has gotten pretty boring as well.

Let's face the facts, each generation of Land Cruiser caters more and more to people with no intention of taking it offroad or use half of the computer based traction control features it comes with. Heck... I met a LC owner that didn't even know what the center lock switch did or that the vehicle even had traction control. The reality is, even the 98 to 07 LC100 and LX470s cannot compare to an older 80 series LC when it comes to capability. That vehicle delivered a pretty descent ride but with factory front & rear lockers, solid front axle, and center locking diff, it came out of the box packing a punch.

As far as resale, all Land Cruisers hold their value pretty well for a gas gussler because they have a reputation for being rock solid and have great routes. Don't take this the wrong way, but 4Runners are a dime a dozen on ebay and there's never a tone of activity. If you search for a used Land Cruiser at a fair market value price, there is almost always people bidding on it. This I Know because I spent months hunting mine down.

Back on topic................For the originator of this post. Take all opinions, including mine, with a grain of salt and buy what you heart wants. If you like the LC100 go for it. Either way, I doubt you'll regret it, plus you'd save enough money to buy a dedicated trail rig or other toy :biggrin2:.

Good luck.

 

[Thai]

Exhaust manifold: Ticking noise in 2000 Cruiser

My brother's LX470 had it...at Lexus dealer, they charged $1000 to fix PER SIDE.

Electronic shocks going bad: LX470 shocks not dampning!!!!

It is actually the actuators that go bad frequently...maybe every 50-60k miles??

As for starter issue, see: http://www.clublexus.com/forums/lx470-and-lx450/357666-starter-issue-30k-miles.html

And yeah, costs $1000-1500 to replace...and i have heard that this issue is as common as every 50-80k miles!!