Lexus GX470 Is Virtually ‘Unstoppable,’ According to Master Technician
While it’s easy to get distracted by the new model, the old Lexus GX470 is already a proven entity that might be the better buy.
Thus far, the all-new 2024 Lexus GX 550 looks like a certified hit already, even though the thoroughly revamped SUV is just hitting dealer lots. From the day it debuted, the new GX was warmly received for its handsome looks and promised off-road capability, replacing the old, outdated Lexus GX470 in a proper way. However, it’s a bit unclear just how reliable the GX 550 will be over the long term, and at this point, the Lexus GX470 is a known entity, and it’s also a favorite of YouTuber and master technician David Long – or The Car Wizard, as he’s otherwise known.
Recently, a customer brought their Lexus GX470 to Long’s shop in Kansas, which made for the perfect opportunity to discuss just how reliable these big SUVs are. This example has 170k miles on the clock and “still drives like a brand new Lexus,” according to Long, which is notable because many alternatives – such as, well, models from the likes of BMW – are nothing more than a massive drain on one’s wallet at that point.
As for this particular Lexus GX470, Long notes that he generally only sees it for oil changes, which is notable because many other vehicles with this kind of mileage are “falling apart” at this point, according to Long. There are some typical wear and tear items, of course, like foggy headlights, but otherwise, the paint is in solid condition.
In terms of the trusty old naturally-aspirated V8, Long calls it “absolutely bulletproof,” and in this case, that’s also true, as this one hasn’t had any major work done yet. Even inside the cabin, where wear is typically present on vehicles with this sort of mileage, everything looks tidy and clean – the seats don’t even show much of the typical bolster wear that plagues leather interiors in general. Another feature that typically causes headaches for a lot of luxury vehicle owners – the air suspension – has also proven trouble free thus far.
Even when Long peeks underneath the GX470, there are no leaks or major corrosion to be found, nor is anything loose. Generally with vehicles of this age, we can expect to see some kind of leak – whether it be from suspension or powertrain components – but that just isn’t the case here, as this GX is dry as a bone underneath.
Ultimately, this once-over is just further proof of how incredibly reliable and high-quality the old GX is, which is something to keep in mind as we turn the page and move on to the new generation. While we’ll always be tempted by the latest, technology-laden models, there’s just something to be said for ones that we know will last a literal lifetime – and the Lexus GX470 is certainly one of them.
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