2004 Lexus GX470
The 2004 Lexus GX470 is a body-on-frame SUV known for its off-road capabilities and luxurious features. It came with a single engine option, the 4.7L 2UZ-FE V8, which produced 270 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the GX470 for its reliability, smooth ride, and build quality. Common complaints include relatively poor fuel economy and the age-related maintenance issues typical of a vehicle of this vintage.
Engine
4.7L 2UZ-FE V8
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, leading to burning oil smell and potentially low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially when the engine is cold, which may diminish as the engine warms. Potential exhaust leak smell.
- Solution: Replacement of the cracked exhaust manifold(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Starter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine fails to start. Clicking sound when the ignition key is turned.
- Solution: Replacement of the starter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Cooling System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, and potential damage to the engine if not addressed. Radiator leaks, water pump failures, and thermostat issues are common.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty components (radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Radiator: $300 - $800+, Water pump: $400 - $800+, Thermostat: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic
- Delayed or Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitates to shift, or shifts are abrupt and jerky. Could be worse when cold.
- Solution: Often due to low transmission fluid, or the need for a flush/filter change. In some cases, worn solenoids or valve body issues may require more extensive repair or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid/Filter: $200 - $400+, Solenoid/Valve Body: $800 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Height Adjustable Suspension (AHC) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sags on one or more corners, compressor failing to inflate the system, or warning lights illuminating on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking air springs, the AHC compressor, height sensors, or valve block.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Air Springs: $400 - $1000+ per spring, Compressor: $600 - $1500+, Height Sensors: $200 - $500+ each
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Air Suspension Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sags overnight or after sitting for an extended period, indicating a leak in the air suspension system.
- Solution: Inspect and replace leaking air springs or air lines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ per spring
- Recalls: None Found
- Ball Joint Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, especially when turning. Premature tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected ball joints (upper or lower).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per ball joint
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Navigation Screen Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen goes blank, flickers, or displays distorted images.
- Solution: Replacement or repair of the navigation screen unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Window does not go up or down, or moves very slowly.
- Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window
- Recalls: None Found
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Battery light illuminating on the dashboard, dimming headlights, and eventual engine stalling.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Frame
- Description/Symptoms: Significant rust on the vehicle’s frame, especially in areas exposed to road salt. This can compromise structural integrity.
- Solution: Rust mitigation, welding reinforcements or potentially frame replacement, depending on severity.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity. Minor rust repair might be $100 - $500, but severe frame damage could be $2000+ or even total the vehicle.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Cracked Dashboard
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface due to sun exposure and age.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or installation of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Dashboard Replacement: $1000 - $2500+, Dashboard Cover: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Driver and Passenger Door Lock Actuators
- Description/Symptoms: Door does not lock or unlock with the key fob or interior switch.
- Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2004 Lexus GX470 is generally considered a reliable vehicle, but age-related issues are common. The most concerning issues involve the suspension (AHC system), rust on the frame and the engine. Suspension and frame issues can be expensive to repair and may require specialized expertise. Valve cover gasket and exhaust manifold leaks are common and can be costly to fix due to labor. Interior and electrical issues such as cracked dashboards and power window failures, while not as critical to vehicle operation, can affect the overall ownership experience. Prospective buyers should have a thorough inspection performed by a qualified mechanic, paying close attention to the suspension system, frame rust, and engine condition.