Considerations When Buying a Lexus 2IS
If you are considering a 2IS, understanding its running costs and where to find a reliable example is important. The cost of ownership depends largely on whether the car has been maintained properly throughout its life, although eventually, parts will wear.
It should be noted that because the 2IS is a luxury vehicle, issues that do arise can sometimes be costly to fix, particularly on higher-end variants such as the IS F.
For routine servicing, you may find plenty of competent Lexus and Toyota specialists and mechanics. However, taking the vehicle to an official dealer will generally cost significantly more. Keeping this in mind can help you minimise running costs.
Where to Find a Lexus 2IS
Lexus produced a large number of these cars, meaning plenty are available on the market. For finding a high-quality example, you might consider looking into local Lexus or Toyota clubs. Owners within these groups are often highly enthusiastic about their vehicles and tend to look after them well. If your local club does not have an XE20 for sale, they may be able to direct you towards suitable options.
Online resources include Club Lexus, which covers all Lexus models, and the Lexus Owners Club, which has dedicated sites for the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, and Europe. For New Zealand owners, there is a Facebook group dedicated to Lexus owners, many of whom have modified vehicles.
In terms of purchasing venues, auction and classified websites such as TradeMe, eBay, Craigslist, and GumTree offer a wide variety of second-generation IS cars. While dealers may be more expensive, they can sometimes provide extras like an extended warranty. Alternatively, if a suitable 2IS is hard to find in your area, you could look into importing one from Japan via a trusted importer.
Pre-Purchase Inspections
While getting a mechanic or specialist to inspect a used Lexus IS is not mandatory, it is a prudent action. A specialist can provide a second opinion on the second-generation IS and may be able to identify something you have missed. Even if you do not plan to take the car to a mechanic before buying it, you are recommended to ask the seller if you can. If the seller appears suspicious or hesitant about this request, it may suggest there is a hidden problem.
Read the full guide: Lexus XE20 IS 2005 Buyers Guide
