lexmenow

Will replace my 2000 gs400. Looking for an 03 -04. What do I need to know. Pros cons. We test drove one and it drove like a dream. Thanks in advance for your help.

kphu

iTrader: (8)

I'd go with the 2004. My 2003 is missing the rear spoiler and DVD entertainment package and the reverse backup camera wasn't available at the time.

The G Man

I just did the opposite as you, I traded in my GX for a GS I would go for the 05 because of the extra horespower and the VVT-i engine. I forget what year did they start offering the TPMS and the back up camera.

lexmenow

An 05 is too much cash 25k is my max and I see alot on auto trader around 26 to 27k I'm sure I can talk someone down 2k. I will stick with the 04. Anything else I need to know?

schan1w

I'm not sure which year the GX got super long life (pink) coolant or "lifetime" transmission fluid, but these two items might be worth it as it keeps your maintaince costs way down.

jugdish

'04 all the way.............regular gas, and much better gas mileage per tank (compared to my '07)

The G Man

lexmenow, if your heart is set on a 03 or 04 GX, then I would definitely go with the 04, but look for a mid-year 04 or later. Half way thru the 04 model year, lexus added the tire-pressure monitor, along with a roll-detection sensor for the curtain side airbags and the rear view camera. The 03 was 1st year model, I would never buy a used 1st year model, even if it is a Lexus.

FrayKay

The 05 and up had the super long life coolant, but the savings isn't enough to make it worth the 05 if you're worried about cash. The only thing about the 03 and 04 is the tow package is hard to install. I don't think there are any instructions from Lexus. But thats only important if you care about towing.

LeslieRC

I bought an `04 (then new) for my wife. She drives it every day to/from work and for weekend errands. The odometer just crossed 30K miles and the GX still looks and rides like new. Our GX has been extremely reliable and easy to care for.

BobsGX

05 and up GX also got the 35 horsepower boost.

GatorGreg

Between an '03 and an '04 I'd save some money and just get an '03, only the "experts" on this sub-forum could tell it apart from an '08 and the slightly more powerful engine didn't arrive until '05. Plus if you plan on upgrading the stock 17" wheels you'll be happy you don't have to deal with the tire pressure monitoring system that started in '04.

I'd look for one with the Nav/ML audio system - even though the nav has been improved over the years the original '03 nav is still excellent and the ML audio system still blows away most of my passengers when they first hear it. However one benefit of the '04 is that the nav system has a rear camera built in. Back when they were new the nav/ml was a big ticket item, but now in the used market it doesn't seem to add that much to the price and IMO it's well worth it.

I'd also recommend looking for a CPO from a Lexus dealer if for no other reason then you can get the infamous "clunk" that afflicts all GX's fixed for free (over $1K otherwise). With all the high tech gadgetry on the GX (e.g. nav, air suspension, etc) it is very expensive to fix if not under warranty. Plus you'll get the red carpet treatment from the Lexus dealer.

burl

I have an 03 bought new in August of 03. I use regular gas, tow a Nautique, have the nav system with an upgraded DVD, and the ML stereo. No complaints at 42k miles. Just bought a Lexus Plat. warranty 7/75. Great vehicle.

GS3Tek

iTrader: (8)

I still have my GS and had an 05 GX.
It's extremely smooth and quiet.

The only major complaint is the paper grocery bag size trunk when the 3rd row seat is in use.

I find the camera extremely useful when parking. Having had this, I agree with G Man and find a later 04 with the nav/ml/rear view camera.

GS 3x

Thanks for all the info. My gf and I are going to the dealership tomorrow. Tell me what you all think about this?
'04 GX w/83k for 27k. Not sure about extras as she just texted me this info. Thanks in advance.

kphu

iTrader: (8)

A litle on the pricey side for that amount of mileage. I bought my 03 last summer for $30K with only 40K on the odometer.