I am looking at purchasing one--has a (replaced) lexus v-6 engine on it (2005). engine has 165K but overall car has 235K. Is it worth $2,000.00?

The noise you are hearing when you turn could be a wheel bearing. The value of this car is hard to determine without seeing it. I would pay very close attention to the undercarriage on the year of a car. Look for excessive rust in the usual places ie. brakelines, gas lines, rocker panels, bottom of doors etc. Pay close attention to the fluids and their condition including coolant reservoir for any signs of oil. A good check you can do on the transmission is to pull the dip stick and wipe it with a clean white cloth. If you notice a lot of black residue there is significant transmission wear, a little is normal. If your satisfied with all these checks that helps get it closer to what he is asking.