2005 Lexus LX470
The 2005 Lexus LX470 is a luxurious and capable SUV known for its reliability, off-road prowess, and comfortable ride. It is powered by a 4.7-liter 2UZ-FE V8 engine producing 275 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its smooth ride, build quality, and dependability. Common criticisms include relatively poor fuel economy and somewhat dated technology compared to newer vehicles.
Engine
4.7L 2UZ-FE V8
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, leading to a burning smell and potential oil consumption.
- Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Pink or green coolant leaking from various points in the engine. Hoses and the water pump are common culprits.
- Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the affected hose, water pump, or other components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on the component)
- Oil Leaks - Crankshaft Seal and Camshaft Seal
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the crankshaft or camshaft seals, leading to oil loss and potential contamination of other engine components.
- Solution: Replace the crankshaft or camshaft seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
Transmission
A750F 5-Speed Automatic
- Delayed or Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Delays when shifting between gears, or harsh/jerky shifts.
- Solution: Fluid flush, replacement of solenoids, valve body repair or replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on the cause)
Suspension
- Height Control System (AHC) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The AHC system can fail, leading to the vehicle being stuck at a certain height, uneven ride height, or complete system failure.
- Solution: Repair or replace the AHC pump, accumulators, or height sensors. Some owners opt for converting to a standard suspension.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
Electrical
- Navigation Screen Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen may fade, become unreadable, or completely fail.
- Solution: Repair or replace the navigation screen unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
- Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Inability to lock or unlock doors using the power locks.
- Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
Exterior
- Rust on Undercarriage
- Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the undercarriage, especially in areas exposed to road salt.
- Solution: Rust removal, treatment, and protective coating application.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
- Rear Hatch Liftgate Struts
- Description/Symptoms: Liftgate has issues opening and closing on its own, or is prone to falling down on its own.
- Solution: Replace the faulty liftgate struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
Interior
- No Issues Found
Recalls:
- Recall Number: 05V482000
- Component: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH VEHICLE SKID CONTROL (VSC) SYSTEM, IMPROPER MANUFACTURING OF THE BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY MAY CAUSE A CRACK IN THE ACCUMULATOR. THIS CRACK MAY LEAD TO A GRADUAL LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID, RESULTING IN THE ILLUMINATION OF THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT AND A LACK OF ASSISTANCE FROM THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS), VEHICLE SKID CONTROL (VSC), AND/OR TRACTION CONTROL (TRAC).
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987 OR TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Recall Number: 05V455000
- Component: STRUCTURE:BODY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, A PORTION OF THE INNER PANEL OF THE LIFTGATE CLOSURE CAN DETACH FROM THE OUTER PANEL OF THE LIFTGATE CLOSURE DUE TO INADEQUATE BONDING OF THE TWO PANELS. SHOULD THIS OCCUR, THE LIFTGATE HINGE CAN CONTACT THE UPPER PART OF THE REAR BUMPER COVER WHEN THE LIFTGATE IS OPENED. IF THE LIFTGATE IS REPEATEDLY OPENED AND CLOSED IN THIS CONDITION, THE HINGE COULD BREAK. IF THE HINGE BREAKS WHILE THE LIFTGATE IS BEING OPENED, THE LIFTGATE CAN FALL RAPIDLY, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPAIR THESE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987 OR TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Summary:
The 2005 Lexus LX470 is a generally reliable vehicle but has some common issues due to its age. The most frequently reported problems revolve around the engine (oil leaks, coolant leaks), suspension (AHC system malfunctions), and electrical systems (navigation screen, door lock actuators). Many of the issues have moderate severity and the cost to fix can range from relatively inexpensive repairs to more significant expenses, especially related to the AHC system. Addressing these proactively or upon first symptom appearance will help maintain the vehicle’s overall reliability and longevity.