2003 Lexus LX470

The 2003 Lexus LX470 is a full-size luxury SUV known for its off-road capability and comfortable ride. It’s powered by a 4.7L 2UZ-FE V8 engine producing 235 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate its reliability, smooth ride, and luxurious features. Common criticisms include its age, resulting in higher maintenance costs, and its fuel economy.

Engine

4.7L 2UZ-FE V8

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, leading to oil consumption and potential engine bay messes. Visible oil around the valve covers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks (Timing Cover)
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant seeping from the timing cover area. This is a common issue as the sealant degrades over time. Can lead to overheating if left unattended.
  • Solution: Resealing the timing cover. This is a labor-intensive job that requires removing the timing belt and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: A ticking or hissing sound, especially when the engine is cold, which goes away as the engine warms up. Reduced fuel economy and potential exhaust leaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cracked exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensors Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated. Poor fuel economy. Rough idling.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty oxygen sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• A343F 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Shift Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting. Transmission slipping or not shifting into certain gears. Check engine light might illuminate.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty shift solenoid(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, particularly at highway speeds. Stalling. Difficulty shifting.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adjustable Height Control (AHC) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The AHC system failing to maintain the correct ride height, leaning to one side, or not adjusting at all. Warning lights illuminated on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the AHC pump, accumulators, height sensors, or other related components. Can involve bleeding the system and recalibration.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on the failed component)
  • Recalls: None Found

• AHC Accumulator Failure * Description/Symptoms: Hard or bouncy ride, especially over bumps. AHC system warning lights. System may not adjust ride height properly. * Solution: Replacement of the AHC accumulators. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ for a pair * Recalls: None Found

• AHC Height Sensor Failure * Description/Symptoms: Incorrect ride height adjustment. The vehicle might lean to one side or be too high/low. AHC system warning lights. * Solution: Replacement of the faulty height sensor(s). * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor * Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down. Slow or intermittent window operation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging. Dimming headlights. Warning lights on the dashboard. Difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Frame and Undercarriage)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on the frame and other undercarriage components, particularly in areas with heavy road salt use.
  • Solution: Rust removal, treatment, and preventative coatings. In severe cases, frame repair or replacement may be necessary (very expensive).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system screen going blank or malfunctioning. Buttons not responding.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the navigation system unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, track issues, or water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, track, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Lexus LX470 is generally a reliable vehicle, but due to its age, certain issues are common. The AHC system requires careful maintenance. The 4.7L engine is reliable, but coolant and oil leaks are common. Rust can be a significant issue in areas with harsh winters. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand for major repairs like AHC system overhauls or frame rust repair.