Advice Sought For Buying Ls400

[ZXH]

Hi

We're currently looking to buy a LS400 (approx yr 1996-2000). We have seen an import (Celsior). Does anyone have any advice as to any downsides of an import rather than a UK car? Are the parts much harder to get hold of than for a UK Lexus, and do they cost much more?

Also does anyone know a good independent garage for repair of Lexuses in Birmingham?

Advice much appreciated.

ZXH.

[yellowlawn]

If you see my post about taking the leap a lot of your questions are answered there. Let me just say though that 1) it's the best car buying decision I made and 2) the Dealers are absolutely fantastic. No wonder they constantly win What Car awards etc for Service. It's impeccable and second to none.

I don't work for Lexus, am just blown away by how good they are as I have dealt with BMW Services previously and they are crap.

[genius149]

I think there may be something in Yellowlawn's thread about how good the Celsior is as well. I was talked out of buying one and regretted it ever since.

As far as I could tell, the mechanicals are pretty much the same, but the Celsior is a lot higher spec and has more toys etc. Oh yeah, and being from the JDM it will be limited to 180 kmh/112 mph although this is usually removed by previous owners.

I'm sure the Celsior owners will give you a more knowledgeable answer though :D

[BarneyTT]

Hi and welcome to the club

You might want to get a few insurance quotes as import cars can sometimes be more expensive to insure.

[chips229]

Hi and Welcome to LOC :)

Have a look through the LS section on the main forum page most has been answered

http://www.lexusownersclub.co.uk/forum/index.php

As a rule have the car checked over by the AA or RAC because you could end up paying as much for the price of the car in parts if it fails a MOT.

The main dealers should be able to get you most/all parts from imports,but at a price there will more than likely be a wait as they will have to order them in.

Good Luck with find the car for you.

Chips.

[steve2006]

Hi,

Celsiors have subtle differences but mainly cosmetic.

Mine is a 94 import and apart from being Toyota badged ( including the engine) there are not a lot of differences.

Main ones are the rear inner lights ( boot lid) clusters are bigger than UK spec because of the style of number plate, this in turn means the boot lock is positioned differently. ( try to avoid rear end shunts!).

General service items are identical ( filters, brakes,exhausts) to Uk spec

Celsiors have more "toys" mine has the DSP sound system, fender pole ( don't ask and it's off the car at the moment), TEMS, and a flare holder ( but no flare!) they are generally air suspension as well but I can't decide if mine is or not as it doesn't have the switch in the tool box area ( if it has and it fails see the bank manager do not pass go do collect £2000.00 for repairs!), mine has full leather but some have cloth seats!!! ( the Japanese apparently prefer them) also bear in mind that imports have no alarm fitted as standard so you will have to buy an after market Thatcham 1for the insurance.

As for insurance I went thru a specialist and have just renewed fully comp for £347.00 ( 9 yrs NCD 48 years young).

Mainstream insurers generally don't want to know.

Service history is also a problem with imports mine was certified correct mileage at 38,000 but despite contacting everyone I cannot obtain any details of the previous Japanese owner.

In view of this expect to pay less than the UK spec model.

If you want some pictures for comparison let me know.

Good luck in your search if you get one like mine you'll be over the moon,

Steve

[ZXH]

Thanks for advice all - finally found a reason not to buy import - seatbelts too short to fit baby seat!!