(Another) Help Me Buy An Is250 (2005 - 2008/9) Thread + Questions!

[astroe]

Hello everyone!

So I've been looking at getting an IS250 Sport Luxury for quite awhile now. From the first day my friend let me take his dad's Lexus Encore loan car for a spin, my mind was set. I was googling around and stumbled onto this place so I thought I'd join up and get some insider advice. One thing though, I want it stock. Any aftermarket wheels or anything and I'm not interested. The car was made perfect as it was intended from the factory, haha.

I remember around the 2010 mark, Prestige models without sat nav were going for about $30k+, but the prices of these cars today is pretty surprising!

As I'm a university student, I don't have as much money to throw around so I'm looking at the bottom end of the market. I would consider Prestige / Sports models if they were substantially less expensive than a Sports Luxury model, but from what I've seen on prices, I'm happy to go a few grand more for better wheels, HID Xenon lights, and radar cruise control.

I do recognise some of these are in Brisbane / Melbourne, but I'm more than happy to catch a flight down to wherever and drive it back to Sydney - I've driven to both Melbourne and Brisbane before and back, so it's do-able.

The following have caught my eye:

1) 2007 in Black, 124,410kms, $19,990.
http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Lexus-IS250-2007/SSE-AD-2406256/?Cr=1&sdmvc=1

2) 2006 in Silver, 111,675kms, $23,490.
http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Lexus-IS250-2006/SSE-AD-2322127/?Cr=6&sdmvc=1

3) 2006 in Silver, 102,500kms, $24,444.
http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Lexus-IS250-2006/SSE-AD-2087611/?Cr=9&sdmvc=1

Colour isn't really a concern to me, I've just heard black is colloquially harder to keep clean / dirt and dust show up easily.
Having said that, the gold looks terrible IMHO, and the brown/bronze colour of the following car is too distinct for my liking.

Actually, if I were to preference colours it would be:

Desired: Grey, Silver.
Ehhh (I could live with it/don't mind): Black / Navy.
Rather not: Bronze / Brown
No way in hell: Red, White, Gold.

I think the more 'adventurous' palette of colours came about in the facelift, which is too expensive for me anyway, so it works out well.

A 4th option is a 2009 Prestige model, 95,800kms, $24,500, only because it's had the facelift. (http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Lexus-IS250-2009/SSE-AD-2358159/?Cr=14&sdmvc=1)

I'm not too keen on the whole bronze / browny colour, and the fact that it's a Prestige model also makes it a less appealing prospect.

High mileage is not an issue for me so long as the service logs are impeccable. I've been told that high mileage would be indicative of country / long distance travel, which would have less wear and tear on the engine than a low mileage / start stop traffic car. Then again it's a Lexus after all so not necessarily a hoon's first choice - but I'd be avoiding anything non stock so that should keep me covered - I think?

I did have a look at the 2IS Model Review thread (http://au.lexusownersclub.com/forums/topic/10109-2is-model-review/) which was very helpful but I do have a few more questions on things I wanted to clarify:

1) Is it actually worth going to legit Lexus dealers to get it serviced? I know I won't get Encore on a used car, so what's the point, right?
2) Regarding the whole EMV thing:
- From what I've googled, the 1st gen has no USB input but does have an aux input. I guess if I hooked up a usb charger to the cigarette lighter and put in aux, would this work fine for an iPhone for music purposes? Will I have to control it through the screen, the steering wheel, or through the phone?
- If I managed to get a USB port installed in the car, would it only charge or could I actually connect it through the EMV interface?
- I believe there is no Bluetooth streaming, but Bluetooth phone connections exist, correct? Does Siri work on it? i.e. do I just hit the Bluetooth button (if it exists) and just talk? I think from my recollection there's a hangup and a pick-up button on the steering wheel.
3) If I wanted GPS map updates, I just buy a new disc, correct?
4) How much are spare keys?
5) What's everyone's thoughts on tinting? It already has an electronic rear blind as far as I'm aware.
6) Average petrol consumption / kms per tank - around Sydney I suppose?
7) Any particular niggles or issues common to the car?
8) Is the Radar Cruise control thing a gimmick or actually useful? Do you find yourself using it? I don't think it brings the car to a complete halt though?

9) Where do you keep the key, since there's no ignition?
10) What's the deal with this smart key emergency card thing? (http://liveimages.carsales.com.au/carsales/car/private/cp5033804367355574718.jpg)

And finally, once I do end up setting my heart on a car, I definitely plan to do all those REVS / RTA / PPSR checks, and maybe even an NRMA inspection if I really think something's up. I'd also check the logbooks to hope that at Lexus dealer has been doing everything.

Apart from all the basics - is there anything else I should be particularly mindful of?

[melchels]

1) Is it actually worth going to legit Lexus dealers to get it serviced? I know I won't get Encore on a used car, so what's the point, right?

Depends on how much you think you would save. Lexus servicing isn't as bad as other cars. Ask yourself if you woul go for a car with a Lexus service history over one without and you may answer if it is worth it to you.

3) If I wanted GPS map updates, I just buy a new disc, correct? Yes, you can save money if happy with a version older by buying it off eBay. Plenty of 'how to' docs to install the disc on the net.

4) How much are spare keys? Around $700...make sure you get 2 when you purchase your car.

5) What's everyone's thoughts on tinting? It already has an electronic rear blind as far as I'm aware. Personal preference.

6) Average petrol consumption / kms per tank - around Sydney I suppose? I used to get about 10l/100 in Melbourne.

7) Any particular niggles or issues common to the car? Vvti controller start up rattle, some persistent rattles, SL has a firm ride alongside a quiet cabin makes rattles very noticeable. I have heard of high oil use on older engines.

8) Is the Radar Cruise control thing a gimmick or actually useful? Do you find yourself using it? I don't think it brings the car to a complete halt though? I found it very useful but did not have the nerve to test it to a complete stop!

9) Where do you keep the key, since there's no ignition? Just in a pocket...anywhere you like really.

10) What's the deal with this smart key emergency card thing? I didn't have one on my car. If the battery in you key is dead, a physical key is in the fob and to start you touch the start button with the fob.

(http://liveimages.carsales.com.au/carsales/car/private/cp5033804367355574718.jpg)

And finally, once I do end up setting my heart on a car, I definitely plan to do all those REVS / RTA / PPSR checks, and maybe even an NRMA inspection if I really think something's up. I'd also check the logbooks to hope that at Lexus dealer has been doing everything.

Apart from all the basics - is there anything else I should be particularly mindful of?

The SL has a great deal of tech...if something goes wrong, can be expensive. Replacement audio/gps units are expensive..make sure you test the screen and cd mechanism is all working.

[astroe]

Depends on how much you think you would save. Lexus servicing isn't as bad as other cars. Ask yourself if you woul go for a car with a Lexus service history over one without and you may answer if it is worth it to you.

Ah well. I would rather have official dealer servicing done but I don't think my budget would extend that far when I get the car. Hypocritical I know, but then again at this price point, when I do end up selling down the track, it won't be worth more than $15k, if that.

Around $700...make sure you get 2 when you purchase your car.

What?! $700 each?

Vvti controller start up rattle, some persistent rattles, SL has a firm ride alongside a quiet cabin makes rattles very noticeable. I have heard of high oil use on older engines.

Yikes. How much would all this cost to rectify?

I guess you guys could help me out haha.

I didn't have one on my car. If the battery in you key is dead, a physical key is in the fob and to start you touch the start button with the fob.

(http://liveimages.carsales.com.au/carsales/car/private/cp5033804367355574718.jpg)

I wonder why didn't you get the key? I see plenty on eBay which is confusing because I'd assume it's unique to the car.

The SL has a great deal of tech...if something goes wrong, can be expensive. Replacement audio/gps units are expensive..make sure you test the screen and cd mechanism is all working.

Wouldn't that be the case for all the models? EMV is pretty common.

I was hoping to have faith in the perceived reliability. :)

[Subby]

Astroe,

Personally, would prefer the NSW car http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Lexus-IS250-2006/SSE-AD-2087611/?Cr=9&sdmvc=1 over the other silver car.....whose owner couldn't even be bothered washing the car wheels before posting the photos!!

Prices are very negotiatible right now - I sold my 2007 IS250 SL (Silver) with 111,700km on the clock for $24,250 - so you definitely have plenty of room to bargain.

Other bits and pieces like a more recent Whereis maps version can be scrounged around for free - PM me when you've bought something.

Good luck!!

[I CU2]

1. You get free cakes and coffee at the dealership... that makes it worth it, right... ;)

2. Correct, you cannot control your phone from the GPS/Steering wheel with the AUX input of the pre-facelifts.

3. New disc ($300) or download.

4. Normal fob = $700 Smart Card = $1000+

5. Tinting - who buys a car without tinting these days. Surely all used models would already have it :o

6. I get 9.0/100km average mostly highway driving.

7. Rattles

8. I use it although I'm scared that people behind me think I'm a troll that keeps on braking constantly lol. It acts as a pre-collision system so will break to a stop if it detects a collision - not sure how well this works though.

9. Anywhere you want in the car except the boot.

10. That is a smart card found only on facelift Sports Luxury models and the ISF (key you put in your wallet and forget about). All other models have 2 key fobs.

[astroe]

Astroe,

Personally, would prefer the NSW car http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Lexus-IS250-2006/SSE-AD-2087611/?Cr=9&sdmvc=1 over the other silver car.....whose owner couldn't even be bothered washing the car wheels before posting the photos!!

Hmm, I did notice that. I guess their lack of cleanliness I can use as a bargaining point. Clearly they are in a huge rush to sell / don't care at all. I'd probably not be that interested only because it's in Melbourne. I'd try and avoid a long drive if I could. :P

2. Correct, you cannot control your phone from the GPS/Steering wheel with the AUX input of the pre-facelifts.

What about in the post facelifts? Do the 2009 models have a USB port? Is there iPod / iPhone functionality? I actually might consider a 2009+ Prestige over a Sports Luxury if it can actually do this.

When I weigh it up, the benefits that the Sports Luxury model gives is a bodykit, nicer wheels, sports suspension and a wicked sound system. The radar cruise control sounds cool but I don't really need it.

A facelift Prestige wouldn't have any of the above, but it would still have stuff like GPS, leather and whatnot, and I think you can program the doors to lock once a certain speed is reached. (http://au.lexusownersclub.com/forums/topic/8152-howto-modify-auto-lockunlock-licked-to-transmissionmovement/)

What would be the most sensible decision?

I'd ideally like a facelifted, Sports Luxury (por que los nos dos!) but the cheapest one is around the $33,000 mark.

And if anyone could please clarify the nature of the Bluetooth connectivity insofar as Siri compatibility? :)

[I CU2]

You need a late 2009 model for the updated GPS + USB input to control your phone. I'd go for the Sports Luxury tbh, I remember I was in a friends Prestige + EMV model and asked why her auto-wipers weren't working when it rained and apparently the car didn't have it?

They're standard on mid spec'd Camrys, I was like o.o

My car auto-locks when I drive, I didn't know it could be turned off... people that get into my car for the first time get a bit suspect when the doors lock lol.

[astroe]

You need a late 2009 model for the updated GPS + USB input to control your phone. I'd go for the Sports Luxury tbh, I remember I was in a friends Prestige + EMV model and asked why her auto-wipers weren't working when it rained and apparently the car didn't have it?

My car auto-locks when I drive, I didn't know it could be turned off... people that get into my car for the first time get a bit suspect when the doors lock lol.

Just to clarify, is there a differentiation between the 2008 build MY09 model and this "late 2009 model" you speak of?

The change to the MY09 started in late 2008, with the changes ranging from indicators in the mirrors and the boomerang style tail lights, and the flat buttons on the GPS/EMV - is this what you meant by the late 2009, or was there another change?

I love the auto-locking feature I have now on my current car. It's pretty safe! This one time in the CBD someone tried to open the door whilst I was stopped at the lights. So I just kinda looked at him confused and he walked off. Disaster averted haha.

Another question!

Is the SL model more likely to have things break or fail, as opposed to the bare bones Prestige?

I guess more features = more problems? I'm probably looking towards the Mark Levinson speakers or the radar cruise control. Then again, these two things wouldn't fundamentally ruin the car's function as a vehicle for transport. Thoughts?

[I CU2]

Technically, the SL would be more prone to having things fail compared to say a Prestige with no EMV option and just a CD changer but this isn't a BMW/Mercedes. The electronics used in Lexus' are very reliable.

The mid-facelift for the 2IS began in late 08 as you said but the GPS interface was updated in late 2009 models so in the middle of the middle facelift (does that make sense lol) the GPS was updated to a hard drive based system (thus gained the USB input) vs CD changer of earlier models.

I guess you're right in the sense that features don't affect the cars function as a transportation device.... but it really comes down to how much the features mean to you. Some are happy with a Camry others with a Veyron.

Ps. why are you up so late lol

[I CU2]

Pss. what car are you upgrading from, if you don't mind me asking?

[astroe]

Technically, the SL would be more prone to having things fail compared to say a Prestige with no EMV option and just a CD changer but this isn't a BMW/Mercedes. The electronics used in Lexus' are very reliable.

The mid-facelift for the 2IS began in late 08 as you said but the GPS interface was updated in late 2009 models so in the middle of the middle facelift (does that make sense lol) the GPS was updated to a hard drive based system (thus gained the USB input) vs CD changer of earlier models.

I guess you're right in the sense that features don't affect the cars function as a transportation device.... but it really comes down to how much the features mean to you. Some are happy with a Camry others with a Veyron.

Ps. why are you up so late lol

That is true, I definitely would trust a Lexus over a BMW/Mercedes of similar vintage.

So technically unless I actually check if there's a HDD there, there is no way of differentiating the late 2008 facelifts from the late 2009 HDD additions? I guess the simplest way is to find a USB port in said car. It seems that the 2009 MY 09 is when the facelift started, but the second conversion from disc to HDD occurred in 2009 for the MY10 models - riveting stuff. :P

As flagged before, I'm a university student. Between all the assignments and social life maintenance, my sleeping pattern is erratic.

Pss. what car are you upgrading from, if you don't mind me asking?

A 2010 Holden Cruze CDX. On the tech side of things, it's got everything the average Gen Y person would want, like flawless iPod / iPhone integration, bluetooth as well as the aforementioned nifty auto door lock, reverse sensors and auto headlights.

However, I'm happy to forego a few 'modern' conveniences to step back in time to 2006/2007 era and experience a luxury executive sedan though. :P

The EMV, moonroof, proximity keys, the overall shape, the badge cred and the performance all won me over - and I think the distinction in quality is clear.

The IS was built for a $50-$70k pricetag, not like the Cruze which was for a $20-$30 price bracket. The materials used are a world apart, as is the engine and sound deadening.

P.S. I would totally get this, but I think driving from Perth to Sydney is a bit much.

http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Lexus-IS250-2006/SSE-AD-2256818/?Cr=1&sdmvc=1

[I CU2]

Exams coming up? I'm up late watching lectures for my exams as well... I hate lecturers who speak in a monotone voice - absolute torture (admittedly I've watched more seasons of South Park during this study period than lectures...).

Familiarise yourself with the GPS interface - it's fairly simple to tell them apart just by looking at the buttons used on the GPS screen once you know both types.

A Daewoo built Cruze - the IS is certainly an upgrade from that ;) but the features seem quite nice on it!

[coconut2001]

astroe, just a few bits that weren't covered.

any grade in these older models with emv means it has MarkLev (ie same soundsystem)

sports lux doesn't have sports suspension, that is the sports.

same with bodykit, they were an option on all grades and not unique to any.

all grades come with leather except sports.

And best way is to check build/compliance date on the car to see which you have.

[astroe]

That's actually a very good observation! Thanks. Indeed, all the cars with EMV in the first gen have ML speakers as well. But I think after the facelift it became standard on the SL and potentially an option elsewhere? The bronze facelifted 2009 IS Prestige has EMV but no ML.

Regarding the bodykit, it seems a bit funny for someone to upspec something lower as opposed to buying the model that has it standard. It's a subtle bodykit anyway.

Re exams: if only I put this much effort into research into my subjects as opposed to a car. Priorities. :p

[astroe]

So, I've come across this particular example.

I have two concerns.

1) For some reason the gap between the bonnet and the grille is quite noticeable - what could this be indicative of - prior accidents?
2) Secondly, the front lip / diffuser appears to be cracked in the middle - is this an easy fix?
It makes me wonder if it's a common issue, like those concrete kerbs in parking lots being too high / the diffuser being too low or something.

Thanks!

[ilv1004s]

So, I've come across this particular example.

I have two concerns.

1) For some reason the gap between the bonnet and the grille is quite noticeable - what could this be indicative of - prior accidents?

2) Secondly, the front lip / diffuser appears to be cracked in the middle - is this an easy fix?

It makes me wonder if it's a common issue, like those concrete kerbs in parking lots being too high / the diffuser being too low or something.

Thanks!

1. bonnet is not closed properly

2. easy fix as the lip is in 2 piece from factory anywayz

looks like a dump just got the joints loose

[Panther]

or a graphite 2010 Prestiage with all options with 10,103k's for $43K sitting in my garage

[astroe]

or a graphite 2010 Prestiage with all options with 10,103k's for $43K sitting in my garage

Haha, appreciate the effort, although I'm literally looking at cars at half the price you're proposing.

Hmm, you definitely haven't been driving much at all!

1. bonnet is not closed properly

2. easy fix as the lip is in 2 piece from factory anywayz

looks like a dump just got the joints loose

It looked closed along the sides though, that's why I assumed otherwise.

It's sold now anyway, it had about 80,000kms and was going for $21,990. :(

At least this gives me hope over the next few months that deals like this are achievable.

[coconut2001]

or a graphite 2010 Prestiage with all options with 10,103k's for $43K sitting in my garage

Haha, appreciate the effort, although I'm literally looking at cars at half the price you're proposing.

Hmm, you definitely haven't been driving much at all!

1. bonnet is not closed properly

2. easy fix as the lip is in 2 piece from factory anywayz

looks like a dump just got the joints loose

It looked closed along the sides though, that's why I assumed otherwise.

It's sold now anyway, it had about 80,000kms and was going for $21,990. :(

At least this gives me hope over the next few months that deals like this are achievable.

Whats your max'm budget? Above deal did seem to fit what you are looking for. Did you inspect it?

Like

above, the 2 piece lip etc is an easy fix. Don't let that deter you,

besides you could haggle them down for that and fix it yourself for less

afterwards.

[astroe]

or a graphite 2010 Prestiage with all options with 10,103k's for $43K sitting in my garage

Haha, appreciate the effort, although I'm literally looking at cars at half the price you're proposing.

Hmm, you definitely haven't been driving much at all!

1. bonnet is not closed properly

2. easy fix as the lip is in 2 piece from factory anywayz

looks like a dump just got the joints loose

It looked closed along the sides though, that's why I assumed otherwise.

It's sold now anyway, it had about 80,000kms and was going for $21,990. :(

At least this gives me hope over the next few months that deals like this are achievable.

Whats your max'm budget? Above deal did seem to fit what you are looking for. Did you inspect it?

Like

above, the 2 piece lip etc is an easy fix. Don't let that deter you,

besides you could haggle them down for that and fix it yourself for less

afterwards.

I don't have a maximum budget, just, like, as low as reasonably possible I guess, haha. :P

The deal was perfect, but it was too late by the time I wanted to see it - the dealership only takes appointments and I was ultra busy this week.

It was a 2005 Sport Luxury with full Lexus logbook servicing and had done 80,260kms, and was through a used car dealer. One owner too!

I think that will be my new benchmark, a Sports Luxury, under 100,000kms (hopefully with the 90,000km service done - I've read shockers on here regarding that), and around the < $23k mark.

It appears to be an achievable / reasonable aim:

http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Lexus-IS250-2008/SSE-AD-2434365/?Cr=9&sdmvc=1 (I do concede, it's not a MY09 update, the seller is confused).

http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Lexus-IS250-2006/SSE-AD-2431470/?Cr=5&sdmvc=1 - seems okay but this draws me to my next optimal desire, original plates. If the registration is original it's easier to keep track of what's happened to the car through calling up service centres for history, etc, so pretty much late AXX-NNX plates or early BXX-BBX (X = letter, N = number).

[I CU2]

http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Lexus-IS250-2006/SSE-AD-2431470/?Cr=5&sdmvc=1 - seems okay but this draws me to my next optimal desire, original plates. If the registration is original it's easier to keep track of what's happened to the car through calling up service centres for history, etc, so pretty much late AXX-NNX plates or early BXX-BBX (X = letter, N = number).

This isn't a Sports Luxury. It has a woodgrain interior from a Sports Luxury and the wheels of a Sports - both of these models are equipped with both passenger and driver memory seating which I can't see in his pictures so I suspect it's not a Sports either. No radar button or rear shade control either = Definitely not a Sports Luxury.

I think this is most likely a prestige and he just went around getting parts from different cars.

EDIT: I can't see headlight washers either so it's definitely a prestige.

[astroe]

http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Lexus-IS250-2006/SSE-AD-2431470/?Cr=5&sdmvc=1 - seems okay but this draws me to my next optimal desire, original plates. If the registration is original it's easier to keep track of what's happened to the car through calling up service centres for history, etc, so pretty much late AXX-NNX plates or early BXX-BBX (X = letter, N = number).

This isn't a Sports Luxury. It has a woodgrain interior from a Sports Luxury and the wheels of a Sports - both of these models are equipped with both passenger and driver memory seating which I can't see in his pictures so I suspect it's not a Sports either. No radar button or rear shade control either = Definitely not a Sports Luxury.

I think this is most likely a prestige and he just went around getting parts from different cars.

EDIT: I can't see headlight washers either so it's definitely a prestige.

You're right! Frauds, haha. The wheels look like they're from a GS450H.

I'm actually familiar with the location of the photos, so this doesn't surprise me.

Maybe we should start a Sports Luxury fraud investigation force!

This one was inappropriately named too, like, no sat nav whut - http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Lexus-IS250-2005/SSE-AD-2407772/?Cr=0&sdmvc=1

[Chunda]

Check the brake discs especially the fronts for dishing. The discs wear especially fast. Dealer had my fronts done before 40k.

Check the rear muffler tips for corrosion. This was a recall to replace with new design tips (due to short drives where moisture gathers on the tips and causes rust)

Check with the dealer (must be genuine lexus) that the recall for tightening fuel pressure sensor was done.

These apply to the 2007 IS250 prestige I had.