Lexus RX 300

fasterthanu

Hey! We made it to the Top 10 Hot Discussions!

Now more people can experience the Gimp's non-sensical tirades.

mvs1

Since I got my RX in July of 99' I couldn't comment on what they're selling for now. But I have dealt with two of the four dealers in CT. Westport and McDermott of New Haven. Two different ways of conducting business, though. Chrome wheels are nice to look at although they pit after awhile, so changing them off in the winter would be an option if you get them.

Some have suggested in the past to use priceline, select the vehicle with all the options your looking for and make a bid. Put in $300 over invoice than increase in small increments this way you'll get the best price (or going rate) for that vehicle. Oh, and don't feel bad about being laughed out of the dealer. I recently went in to trade my RX for an IS300 and when I explained very nicely that a discount of only $1800 wasn't even remotely close to getting a deal done. The salesman's stated in a very high pitched voice, "You don't want me to make any money." Well, not really guy.

wwest, what's with your about comments, wrong again, a US senator for Wash St. You don't like my story? Didn't think so, oh, and that's your dog talking, not god.

dorothyct

I'll skip 'em.

dorothyct

Already been to Westport for my test drive. Seem okay there so far. Going to take husband there to have a ride this weekend.

Have been to McDermott (on a Sunday) - no experience with their staff as yet.

What's the difference you found with the 2 dealers? Prefer one over the other???

Thanks,
D.

wwest

In my earlier post I didn't qualify that it was a US Senator, and someone assumed a state senator so I was pointing at myself and saying wrong again.

Guess I still got it wrong again, huh?

gsenthil

Moortorque: You said its HER car and the chattering is coming from the drivers side. Solution: Masking tape over the drivers mouth

Spoke to dealer re wiper blades. No, they are not covered by warranty. Will charge $12 for parts no labor charge. Dont know what brand they are using. I guess just like for an oil change, I'm better off buying my own parts.

WW: Which blades do you recommend:PIAA or Bosch micro edge excel wiper blade?

Chrome Wheels: Apart from a flashy appearance they also reduce the structural strength of wheels. I dont like them as a matter of personal choice. But then I dont like the clear tail lights of the RX either...(prefer the 1999 red ones)

Nav: I agree with WW on this one. People already eat talk (and god knows what else) on the phone. While a moving map might not be much of a distraction- there are just too many morons out there who cant see a map and drive at the same time.

For those who are interested, I have 2 movies in QuickTime .mov format that are Lexus ads showing the same. If interested send an email to gs@asu.edu

Senthil

outrun

A small electronic map that isn't very distracting along with a polite female voice trying to guide you on your way, or a giant paper map unfolded in front of a driver's face so he can't see anything else?

The Optitron speedometer and tachometer are much more in the view of the driver than the center mounted nav screen.

-Craig

tidester

Let's drop the personal sniping!

Thanks!

tidester
Host
SUVs

fasterthanu

I don't have a Nav so I can't comment from experience on it. But there are indeed lots of activities that make drivers bad ones. Like women fussing with make-up, people reading newspapers and maps, cell phones of course. I can eat and drink without being distracted too much, but it is a minor distraction at the very least.

I imagine the Nav is a very useful tool to have if you can learn to rely only on the voice instructions during driving, and look at the display only when stopped.

wwest

I don't yet have enough experience with the PIAA that I would recommend them to anyone, and their price is outlandish!

So for now go with the bosch, they won't disappoint.

mooretorque

dorothyct, our toddlers aren't toddlers anymore, but we have two boys (now 4.75 and 7.5 yrs), and at one time had two car seats in the rear. Still room for a smallish center passenger. We actually bought the RX (and sold an ES) so my wife would not have to bend over to get the younger man-child out of the car seat. The RX is more or less perfect height for taking them straight out of the car seat.

gsenthil, I'll propose that to her and see what she thinks. Signs and portents are not auspicious, however.

Willard, I'd thought of the wiper arm but keep putting it off (easy to do when it's not my driver). And re su'th'un accent: when I was a resident, one of my classmates, originally from New Orleans had a chief res who was from Jaw-jah (Georgia, you ignorant Yankee carpetbaggers!) and they reinforced one another to the point of hilarity. "Now, suh, Whut we have he-ah is a fella with a ba-ud gawl bladdah......." and like that. You can take the boy out of the South, but ya cain't take th' South outta th' boy!

fasterthanu

Can you guys/gals tell me what you use to clean and condition your RX's leather, and how satisfied you are with the results?

dorothyct

My little guy (and his poor head) are happy to hear your report. Can't wait to get him out of this Accord and into our new stylish RX.

Glad your guys are still sitting in that back seat as I'm sure we'll have this new RX (which we don't have yet) for a while and child #2 will be here before long.

Thanks for posting.

jiamin

I only use Lexol (not sure spelling is correct) cleaner and conditioner, therefore I don't have comparison with other brands. So far I'm very satisfied with it. I also read somewhere that a few said it is the best.

fasterthanu

I heard Lexol was pretty good .. I've been using Zymol and am not impressed by its performance. In addition to that, my interior is beige and it drives me mad how fast it gets dirty. I heard that the Zaino cleaner and conditioner also restores the leather smell and cleans well, and was hoping to get some feedback from people who use it.

is300tm7

I do not own rx300 any more but I had good use for my crossbar. I am not too sure but crossbar on the roof is like the base for anything you want to put. Like if you want to carry snow boards, you have to buy snow board racks , however you would not put the snow board rack right on top of your roof , on your car's paint, would you?, or such as drilling holes or anything. That's where the crossbar helps, you can just install the snow board carrier right on top of our crossbar on your roof, I hope that explains it little bit. That goes for skis also, and probably many other things such as those big containers etc...

fasterthanu

What made you switch to an IS? I am totally lusting after that car. I love the RX, but it's a far different ride from the IS. How do you like it? For a sporty ride, I still have my Acura Legend coupe ('90)

gimpyrx

More to come!

gteach26

I'm going to test drive an RX this weekend. I'm in a similar situation as mooretorque was above.. selling an es300 for more carseat room and easier access.. does anyone know if the 2002 RX comes equipped with the LATCH or isofix car seat holders? Supposedly, this allows for you to just snap the carseats into the seats without having to mess with a seatbelt. Thanks!

mooretorque

I use Lexol and have had excellent results on the ivory interior of the RX. I also have a silver GS with black interior, but results of the cleaner will obviously be less (meaning "not") visible. A number of posters over on ClubLexus also swear by Zaino. If the interior stuff is as good as the exterior products, I might have to switch.

gteach26, Lexus put the isofix car seat deals in starting in 2001, and I believe there is also a latch for center, rear.

mvs1

My experience has been pleasant with both. Although I can't seem to consummate a deal currently with McDermott. Here's one of the main differences. McDermott unlike other dealers, doesn't have a Finance manager. The salesman secure there own and make that money along with their normal commission. What I've found is that Westport uses a greater number of financial institutions to get you the best price when buying/leasing (LCF isn't always the best deal). If you already know options of the vehicle your interesting in and can't get anywhere with the price, I'd opt for the priceline route. Priceline just handles the $$$ amount, due to agreements with various dealers. You then go to the dealer to complete the sale. I haven't used this so, my comments are just what I've gathered through others here on this board.

Leather Care: I've used Lexol, Tanner's Preserve, and the Lexus care products. I've actually been more impressed with Tanner's preserve for removing the daily dirt that accumulates. (also Ivory leather)

gimpyrx

How do you like it?

ravl

Last I checked, there was no talk of a Silversport Edition for 2002 on the Lexus website. Has anyone heard if they'll be making any for the 2002 year? If not, that'd be kewl for us SS owners to have a design for one year only. )

So, how close is this forum to number one? Gotta be up there.

ravl

Tell it! Tell it!

I'm keeping the RX. Need to stay on topic, you know. The GS would be for the man o' the house.

ravl

I choose to drive with them removed as just about *every* RX I see has them. I drive a black Silversport, and with the bars removed, it gives the vehicle a very nice, classy look.

The finishing touch to the vehicle will be the addition of performance styled tires. Hey, Willard, do you have a link to a picture that shows your wheel setup in closeup? I'd like to see how it looks. TIA.

dorothyct

We are going to pay cash (will have our financial business prepared ahead of time with our own credit union). Do you think we won't be able to get as good a deal at Westport because of that? Do you think we should do the priceline thing instead of walking in prepared to tell them we have cash?

D.

mooretorque

OK gimpy, ravl.....here it comes: Daddy has a 2001 GS430, silver/black/Levinson but no NAV/17" (no chrome, sorry, too glitzy), which I spec-ordered, replacing my (again, by me, spec-ordered) 93 SC300 5sp, DiamondWhiteMetallic/charcoal that I relinquished after 7.5 yrs. I still miss it.

But the GS is almost frighteningly quick, and the ML is actually audibly better than the Nakamichi in the SC, which in turn was arguably about the best OE system in the world. L-Tuning the suspension and adding front and rear strut tower braces will be the only other thing I'll do to the GS.

ravl, the man of the house will love a GS. gimpy, it ain't like I'd be keepin' up with your 'Stang, but for a 4 door with a slushbox, it's quick. Wish it had 3 pedals and a stick though.

mvs1

Here's something to think about. A few months back there was an article in the USA today talking about how some dealers frown upon buyers willing to pay cash, reason being they buy the loans from a bank then re-sell them to the consumer for the extra $$$. Don't tell them up front. After you get a final price, throw the duffle bag w/ the money on the table (or bank check) the bag idea just sounds better. Like I said I haven't used priceline, but if you like go in the dealership both guns blazing with your offer and see what happens.(jk)

gimpyrx

I want one !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GS430
Automatics are quik too...As you can see.
You-da-man!

raybear

Try the local dealer first. If you're not satisfied then try other means. There is a Priceline thread on the Smart Shopper message board. You can go there for additional advice.

stever

Here's the link:

PRICELINE.COM - experiences & comments on buying vehicles thru Priceline?

Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards

cfawcett

I'm trying to figure out which is better. As far as I can tell these vehicles are almost exactly the same. The only difference is the Aztek has more available options, and gets better gas mileage, has more room and cargo space, alot cheaper, generally more comfortable, and has a tighter turning radius. The Lexus has a better resale value, reputation, and status. What I'm trying to figure out, do these 3 things justify the $12,000 extra needed to get the RX?

Thanks for any help!

is300tm7

I just needed something little more sporty, i am only 26, rx300 was smoothe and quiet but is300 is fast and nimble, not to mention best handling car i ever drove.

mooretorque

cfawcett, there is no doubt that the RX is better from a number of standpoints.
Toyota/Lexus vs Pontiac:
Quality: advantage, Lexus, way over the top
Reliability: same
Resale: same (and remember, that figures into total cost of ownership)
N/V/R (noise/vibration/rattle): same
Styling(ext): same (won't argure this one; people like what they like, but most people find the Aztek's styling to be both misshapen and loaded with the worst of Pontiac's styling cues)
Styling(int): same
Fit and finish: oh, come on.

I'll spot you the advantages you say, esp. turning circle (which is just something that rarely has mattered in the 3.5 yrs my wife has been driving ours), but what you, and only you, can decide is if those things are high enough on your priority list to override Lexus' advantages. The comparison is a bit of an apple to an orange because of the markedly different price points.

You need to do what makes YOU happy, since those of us on this board won't be driving your car. I'm sure you'll get similar answers from the other posters here. We've already made our choice.

BTW, most of the auto mags say that GM plans large changes to the Aztek since sales have been so flat, perceived to be on the basis of it's off-putting appearance.

outrun

Whoever asked about car seats. Yes, the RX (at least '01 and later) have the LATCH system. Our '01 has it on the left and right seats, but doesn't have the upper latch in the middle. So it will only support two car seats using LATCH in forward facing mode. You may be able to squeeze 3 if they're rear facing (1 year AND 20 pounds).

As for a car seat, I HIGHLY recommend the Fisher Price Safe Embrace II. It is extremely well constructed (tubular metal frame surrounds it), mounts like a rock using LATCH, and has been regarded as the best car seat in many reviews.

-Craig

dorothyct

Should we go for wheel locks if we don't have the fancy chrome wheels?

mvs1 and raybear: Thanks for the advice on priceline, cash payment, etc.!

mooretorque

dorothyct, your wheels cost something on the order of $600 apiece (alloy, nonchrome)or more. McGard wheel locks (which is almost certainly what is being installed) cost about $50) and are certainly a reasonable deterrent unless someone steals the whole vehicle.

I've had them on every vehicle I've owned since 1985. I rate it "two thumbs up" (or "two snaps up" if you remember that Wayans bros.).

Short answer: yes.

dorothyct

Will add them to the list. A mere drop in the bucket in the grand scheme of things. I didn't realize they weren't that expensive.

Thanks again.

wwest

Pretty good bedside manner there doc.

Wheel locks.

Cost is trival so why not.

Well, you need to pretty damn sure the "key" is nearby when you finanly come to need it. Too many times I have come upon someone on the highway with a flat and no idea where that stupid key might have gotten itself to.

Most common solution is to use a hammer and "drive" (WASTE) a just slightly too small socket over the locking/stud to it can be taken off.

I most often secure the "key" to some part of the carjack. You must remember to check to see if your mechanic or serice person puts it back after tire rotations, etc....

Long answer, still yes.

fasterthanu

I understand your reasoning - I haven't driven the IS before, but everytime I stop by the dealership, I find myself sitting in it. It's a far cry from the RX - there are so many differences between the two vehicles, but the fact that they are both Lexus really makes me want them both. I love the RX - live in NYC and driving it makes the commute much more bearable. Its road isolation and quietness isulates me from the madness around me.

Saw a Lexus delivery truck this morning carrying, in the following order: RX300, ES300 and IS300. I was thinking those 3 would look very nice in my driveway (considering that I may have a long driveway someday).

Maybe by the end of the year I'll swing an IS to give the RX some company, when prices are dropped.

Am ordering some Zaino leather cleaner and conditioner - will report on results later.

Hey I think we are going to put this forum over the top in the Hot Discussions list. Let's go for it.

ssssteve

Bought new Michelin Cross Terrains for the RX yesterday. They are really GREAT! Makes the car handle much better, much more "sure footed" and the cornering and braking is now much improved! Have to wait 'til it rains to give 'em a real test drive - but on normal streets and highway roads that I've driven on so far - they kick tail!

The car has a different look now too. The tires give it a much more serious look. These really improve the overall appearance (at least in my opinion)

I highly recommend them!

outrun

What tires did you have before? The not-so-Goodyear or Bridgestone?

Just curious what you're comparing the new ones to.

Our '01 RX AWD came with Bridgestones. So far, I'm happy with them.

-Craig

mooretorque

dorothyct, wwest is, again, quite right. The dealer will ordinarily put the "key" in the tool kit, but you have to make sure it gets back every time your tires are rotated.

Willard, thankee kindly. I'm just an' ol' country doctor, tryin' to help as best I can.....

fasterthanu

Are definitely recommended. Why risk coming back to the parking lot and finding your RX wheel-less on a stack of bricks because some ^!&^@&!(*^&@ decides he wants your nice wheels?

And definitely keep the key in a safe place. I keep mine in the glovebox which I keep locked. You don't want to be without it. I had a flat which I changed myself (service took too long getting there) and I would've been stranded without the key.

laurasdada

All this talk of Westport is making me a little misty for the old hometown. If you buy the RX at Westport, Dorothy, treat yourself to a nice dinner at Rocco's across the street(if it's still there. It's been a few years since I've been in the old 'hood)after you pick it up. Or grab a sandwich from Art's deli. Catch a show at the Playhouse. Play a round at Longshore...sigh.

The evil wife and I swithced cars today, I'm driving her RX (she wanted me to get it washed and filled with gas, ulterior motive!). It is a nice ride, but I'm actully more comfy sitting lower, as in a car. Maybe it's from driving a Datsun 260Z in my youth. In that car, it seemed you were about 2 inches above the road! Or my summer jobs that included driving high-cube vans. Never did like driving a truck. My wife said it's strange driving my car, she sits so low!
She's only had the Lex a week, how quickly she's moved on from the Saab!

Aztek vs. Lexus? Interesting comparison, not made by many I'm guessing. However, test the heck out of both of 'em. THe one that fits your needs/wants/desires/pocketbook is the best!
Me personally? Not a big fan of GM build quality/interior materials or reliability reputation. And this is from a guy who drive a K car!

danrx

Glad to see this forum is active with constructive posting again.

The MDX forum is so dull, uh duh !! how much you paying over sticker, uh how many months you have to wait. The ML forum is not to bad.
Anyway, Dorithy, It sounds like your configuring your car with specific options (Wheel locks, no wheel locks). Although the Wheel locks are probably one of the few dealer installed items that you may probably be able to get or not get, undstand that MOST RX300s (At least in the North East) on the dealer's lot are fully loaded with all options except NAV, Tow Hitch, (HID and Wood Wheel/Knob) might vary.

I have used the Mother's leather conditioning and am now using the Zaino. I don't like the Zaino to much because it is a little to watery for my taste. Even though I have used these products since I bought my RX, My driver seat is looking a little cracked and beaten,more so than I would have expected after only 12K in 1yr/ 3/months. I have a 2000 RX w/ Gray Int anybody else can relate ???
I think In 99 and 00 they used lower end toyata leather and nice-end it up in 01 a bit

albell

Having just bought an RX in NYC, I can attest to the fact that most of the models come absolutely loaded. Calling around the area to get quotes and inventory confirmed that dealers, at least at December's month's end, also weren't as willing to deal on less loaded stock, if there was any. I think Lexus was pushing the full-boats.

I must say that I am more than pleasantly surprised by the ride of the RX. I had a 18 month hiatus from driving SUV's (after being very disappointed by the MB-ML) and thinking I wouldn't go back. It is a very good drive.

Am also glad this forum is so active and look forward to learning more about the new RX.

wwest

Your wheels and tires are worth a minimum of $2000, replacement value. OEM tires and wheels, especially OEM wheels, are NOT likely to be "lifted" by a "professinal". Just not worth the risk, and little market. A professional is much more likely to just take the whole kit and kiboodle.

So, only a druggie, or some other sort of low live that likely doesn't know the difference, would consider "lifting" OEM sets, a quick return for small effort, probably 10% of your replacement value.

But provided you never get caught needing a lost "key", wheel locks are a very good value.

ssssteve

The old tires were those Goodyear dogs. Never liked Goodyear anyhow - and the ones that Lex uses (were using) are garbage! I feel pretty certain that the CTs are a good choice. Just have to wait for some weather to check out the whole story.

gsenthil

Hi,

Just wondering what kinda gas you use? Regular or Premium? If you use premium is it out of blind faith or a technical reason? Seems premium is not always better depending on the engine

http://www.caranddriver.com/xp/Caranddriver/features/2001/november/200111_feature_gasoline.xml

Another one: Any particular brand in preference? I usually avoid small time gas stations and stick to the big names. What about Arco? Their premium prices are almost the same as regular at other places.

Senthil