2004 Lexus GS300

The 2004 Lexus GS300 is a mid-size luxury sedan that offers a comfortable ride, a well-appointed interior, and Lexus reliability. The primary engine option for the 2004 GS300 is the 3.0L 2JZ-GE inline-six engine, producing around 220 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. A small amount of GS430s were produced with a 4.3L 3UZ-FE V8 producing around 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. All models of the GS300 were available with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the car’s smooth ride, build quality, and overall dependability. Common complaints include a somewhat dated interior, and in the case of the GS300, a less powerful engine compared to competitors.

Engine

3.0L 2JZ-GE Inline-Six

• VVTi Gear Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling or knocking sound coming from the front of the engine, especially on cold starts. This is caused by wear in the Variable Valve Timing (VVTi) gear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VVTi gear.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ depending on labor rates and shop.
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets & Camshaft Seals)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket or camshaft seals. Visible oil drips or oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and camshaft seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light with codes indicating a cylinder misfire.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per coil

4.3L 3UZ-FE V8

• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket. Visible oil drips or oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Timing Belt Service
  • Description/Symptoms: This is preventative maintenance for the 3UZ-FE since it uses a timing belt, not a chain. Neglecting this can lead to catastrophic engine failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing belt, water pump, tensioners, and other related components as part of the recommended service interval (typically every 90,000 miles).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500

Transmission

A650E 5-Speed Automatic

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement into gear, harsh shifts between gears, especially when cold. This is often due to worn valve body components or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change may help. Valve body rebuild or replacement is sometimes necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush) to $800 - $2000+ (valve body or transmission replacement)
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at highway speeds, especially under light acceleration.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+

Suspension

• Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps. The lower control arm bushings tend to wear out.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower control arm bushings or the entire lower control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 per side
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts/shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ for a set of four.

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen display goes blank, flickers, or becomes unreadable.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation screen unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (can be more for OEM replacements or professional installation)
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows operate slowly, erratically, or not at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dash Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dash cover, dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$200 (dash cover) $800-$2000 (dashboard replacement)

Recalls:

• None Found

Summary The 2004 Lexus GS300, known for its reliability and luxurious ride, does have some common issues to be aware of. Engine issues such as VVTi gear noise and oil leaks are prevalent, especially in the 3.0L inline-six, while the 4.3L V8 can suffer from oil leaks and requires timely timing belt service. The 5-speed automatic transmission may experience delayed or harsh shifting and torque converter problems. Suspension components like control arm bushings and struts/shocks also tend to wear out. Electrical issues may involve the navigation screen or power window regulators. Although the repairs can be costly, addressing these issues can ensure that the GS300 continues to provide a comfortable and reliable driving experience.