2006 Lexus GX470

The 2006 Lexus GX470 is a body-on-frame SUV known for its off-road capability, luxurious interior, and Toyota reliability. It’s powered by a 4.7L V8 engine producing 263 horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the GX470’s smooth ride, spacious cabin, and reliability. Common dislikes include its relatively poor fuel economy and the age of the technology compared to newer SUVs.

Engine

4.7L 2UZ-FE V8

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets onto the exhaust manifolds, causing a burning oil smell. Visible oil residue around the valve covers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Secondary Air Injection Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes related to the secondary air injection system. Loud noise from the pump on cold starts. In some cases, the pump can fail completely, preventing the vehicle from starting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the secondary air injection pump and/or valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking sound from the engine, especially on cold starts, which diminishes as the engine warms up. Exhaust smell noticeable inside the cabin.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cracked exhaust manifold(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

A750F 5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Difficulty shifting gears. Check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or abrupt shifts between gears. Hesitation during acceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and replacement. Check and replace any faulty solenoids within the transmission valve body. Potential for a complete valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Height Control System (AHC) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits unevenly or does not maintain the correct ride height. Warning lights on the dashboard related to the AHC system. System can become completely inoperable, which means the rear suspension will not move.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the AHC system to identify the faulty components, such as air struts, height sensors, or the pump. Replacement of the defective parts. Many owners opt to convert to a coil-over suspension system for increased reliability and lower maintenance costs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ (AHC repair); $1500 - $4000+ (coil-over conversion)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Uneven tire wear. Steering instability.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn lower control arm bushings. May require replacement of the entire lower control arm if the bushings are not available separately.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen may fail to power on, display distorted images, or become unresponsive to touch.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the navigation unit. This can be expensive, and some owners choose to install aftermarket head units instead.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows may fail to operate or move slowly. Grinding or clicking noises may be heard when attempting to use the power windows.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the undercarriage and frame, especially in areas exposed to road salt.
  • Solution: Rust removal, treatment, and application of protective coatings. In severe cases, frame repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Hatch Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming along the bottom edge of the rear hatch, particularly around the license plate area.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting of the affected area. Replacement of the rear hatch in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dash Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, often due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Lexus GX470 is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues related to the air suspension, engine leaks, and electrical components. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to costly repairs. Frame rust, depending on the environment where the vehicle resided for the majority of its life, should also be checked out. Careful inspection and preventative maintenance can help mitigate some of these problems.