I was actually focused on the FJ Cruiser when a clever salesperson pointed me to GX 470. Of course, much nicer, but still off road capable, vehicle. I have some back and hip issues, so comfortable seats are huge for me, but I also want something I can head into the nature with, so the GX 470 could fit the bill. I have never owned a Lexus, though I have owned a Toyota.

Lexus has a reputation for longevity, so I might want to get an older, low mileage one. Any years to stay away from?

Is the Lexus pricy to repair, i.e. more Mercedes-like than Toyota-like?

Thanks.

 

There are a few "common" issues with the older GX ('03 & '04) like the clunk and cracked dashboard (both of which would be obvious by now). Search the forum for any others. As far as general maintenance, there is nothing over the top for the GX.

One of the beautiful things about the GX is that it is basically a Toyota 4-runner with a sexier interior. That means any Toyota dealer can easily service it.

 

For the record, I have the '04 with 120,000. While mine has been great, most will tell you to look for an '05 or later.

 

diver110...IMO I don't see any issues on the GX470 that would make me say stay away from particular years but their are feature differences and the clunk fix" TSB that you should be aware about. on the '03 and early '04model reverse backup camera and tow hitch pacakge wasn't available. You can add these features but you'll have to either pay a premium or go aftermarket - I'm in the process of tracking down the parts for the tow package and someday want to do the reverse backup camera. also I believe it was in '05 that the engine is a little bit more powerful and if you plan on doing any off roading I think KDSS became available as well.

As for repair costs, for me its not expensive as I have my bro who's a former toyo tech do most of the maintenance. Its hard to compare repair costs as I've seldom had to deal with it. I had a 4runner before getting the GX. For the most part, parts seems reasonable priced. i did help my cousin do a brake job on his mercedes sedan because the dealership wanted $500 so going by that cost alone i would say owning a lex is cheaper than owning a merc.

I have an '03 with 90K miles and love it, no issues experienced ever.

 

67k mi on the clock, bought my 2005 new and other than the drive-shaft "clunk" issue which Lexus addressed under warranty I have not had one problem. Ran into a guy at the diealership and we got to talking and he owned an '06 which has 195k mi on it, said he hasn't had one issue either.

As for repairs and maintenance, parts are Toyota, so maintenance can be done at any indy shop or the Toyota dealer at a significant savings. They are great trucks with a timeless design.

 

Thanks for the feedback. I was thinking in terms of 2006 or newer, so it looks like I will be fine. I wish the MPG was a little better, but you can't have everything.

 

personally i think the MPG is fantastic when you look at what you are getting - a big, heavy, luxury suv that can get 19+ on the freeway. compare that to rovers or domestic (tahoes, yukons) and it suddenly doesn't look so bad.