MotorDeets

Lexus GX470 problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every GX470 from 2003 to 2009: 210 owner complaints and 5 recalls across 7 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2004 (65), 2003 (46), 2005 (30). Best fuel economy: 15 mpg combined (2009).

Lexus GX470
Photo: BrendelSignature at English Wikipedia · CC BY 2.5 · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Body & structure43
Airbags41
Transmission & drivetrain26
Speed control / throttle24
Other / unknown23
Suspension18
Brakes (hydraulic)14
Engine & cooling10

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
200324615
200416515
200513015
200612815
200702715
200801315
20090115

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the Lexus GX470.

eManualOnline Download (PDF), keep forever

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Mitchell 1 DIY Online access, factory-level data

Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

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ALLDATAdiy Online access, factory OEM info

OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
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FAQ

What is the worst year for the Lexus GX470?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2004 (65), 2003 (46), 2005 (30).

How many recalls has the Lexus GX470 had?

Across 2003–2009, NHTSA lists 5 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).