2003 Lexus GX470

The 2003 Lexus GX470 is a body-on-frame SUV known for its off-road capability, reliability, and comfortable ride. It came standard with a 4.7L V8 engine, producing 235 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its smooth ride, luxurious interior, and Toyota reliability. However, common complaints include its poor fuel economy and some age-related issues with certain components.

Engine

4.7L 2UZ-FE V8

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks visible around the valve covers, burning oil smell, low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially when cold, exhaust leak smell.
  • Solution: Replace the cracked exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Secondary Air Injection Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light (P0410, P0412, P0415, P0416, P0418 codes), loud buzzing noise from the pump area upon startup.
  • Solution: Replace the secondary air injection pump and/or valves. Bypassing the system is possible but may have issues with emissions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

A750F 5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shaking or vibrating felt during light acceleration, especially around 40-50 mph.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush, using Toyota WS fluid. If the shudder persists, the torque converter may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush), $800 - $1500 (torque converter replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed or Harsh Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: noticeable delay when shifting between gears, harsh or jerky shifting.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush, check the condition of solenoids in the valve body. Replacement of solenoids and potentially the valve body itself may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush), $400 - $1000+ (solenoid/valve body replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Height Adjustable Suspension (HAS) / Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, “AHC” light on the dashboard, compressor failing to run, or running continuously.
  • Solution: Diagnose the leak or failing component (air struts, compressor, height sensors). Replace the faulty part(s). Many owners opt to replace the air suspension with coil springs for a more reliable and less expensive long-term solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (air suspension repair), $800 - $2000 (coil spring conversion)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Loose steering, uneven tire wear. This is a serious safety concern if the ball joint separates.
  • Solution: Replace the lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or completely blank navigation screen, unresponsive touch screen.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the navigation screen unit. Some owners opt for aftermarket head units with modern features.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800 (repair), $300+ (aftermarket head unit)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window slow to move or not moving at all, clicking noise from the door.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing around the license plate lights and the bottom edge of the rear hatch.
  • Solution: Repair the rust damage, potentially requiring body work, welding, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement is the most effective but expensive solution. Aftermarket dashboard covers are a less costly alternative.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ (dashboard replacement), $50 - $200 (dashboard cover)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Lexus GX470 is a generally reliable vehicle but, like any vehicle of its age, it is susceptible to certain issues. The most common problems revolve around the air suspension, engine leaks, and transmission shudder. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to over a thousand dollars for more extensive repairs like suspension or dashboard replacement. Overall, the severity of these issues varies, but preventative maintenance and addressing problems promptly can help keep the GX470 running smoothly.