I'm looking to buy another TL. It has 120k bit hasn't had it timing belt or water pump changed says the owner. If I purchase it, I will have to drive it 200 miles back home. What should worry about with this car before buying it?

 

My saying - Sounds like the owner is neglecting the car. The service reminder should've bother him by now when ever he turn on the car. So if he hasn't service the timing belt, it could mean he has not service or care to bother the other stuff transmission, spark plug, etc. the routine maintenance..

But if it still runs solid you should be able to make the 200 mile trip back.
But I would service it ASAP which you will have to spent money on top to the purchase price.

 

it wont break in that 200 mi.

but i would definitely have it looked at by a japanese specialist before purchasing it, and then use his findings + upcoming the timing belt job to negotiate the price even lower.

 

I already have a price I want to negotiate with computing in timing belt and water pump. But he said the car is in excellent condition but I'll have to see when I get there.

 

Make sure you check the transmission.