wridling

I am new to CL and this is my first time to ever actually post, so I apologize in advance.

I have a 2004 GX470. When I recently brought it to the dealership for the dashboard replacement recall/warranty, they told me that both of my rear air bags were leaking and needed replaced ($1375), power steering rack leaking ($1900), valve cover gaskets leaking ($850), and a couple much more minor things.

I would like to drive this car for at least a few more years but am worried about having to do some, or all of these repairs in the near future and spending all that money on a vehicle that is 13 years old with over a 130k miles. I have spoken with the car shop I typically go to and their prices were definitely better than the dealerships but still some expensive work. I was hoping some of you all may have some insight on these issues from personal experience and suggestions for a cost effective way to take care of these issues and keep the vehicle driving properly.

Also, I have seen people talking about alternatives to replacing the rear suspension airbags; replacing/converting them to traditional coils but I haven't been able to find out much to determine if that should even an option worth considering since I do not know all the cost involved, how it affects other components of the vehicle (sensors, ride level), affect on resale value, etc. or if I would be better off going with the original airbag suspension. 99% of the time driving is done in the city/highway but every so often I do take it camping or to the ranch and love it's off-road capabilities.

Greatly appreciate any thoughts or ideas, thanks!

chiph9

There's leaking, then there's leaking. Put a clean piece of cardboard under your GX in the garage and leave it for a couple of days. If there's no fluid spots (other than A/C condensate), it's probably not that big of a deal.

Chip H.

DiabloX22

Get another estimate or 2. Do not tell the other shops what the other shops said it needed. Check on the lexus site the repair history of the vehicle.