2006 Lexus LX470

The 2006 Lexus LX470 is a full-size luxury SUV known for its off-road capability, reliability, and comfortable ride. It came standard with a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 275 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the LX470 for its smooth ride, luxurious interior, and go-anywhere capability, while some find its fuel economy and dated technology to be drawbacks. Common criticisms also include its bulky size for city driving and the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

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 damage to other engine components. Visible oil around the valve covers. Burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Exhaust Manifold Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the exhaust manifolds, resulting in exhaust leaks. Loud ticking noise, especially when cold. Reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifolds.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
• Power Steering Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power steering pump begins to whine loudly when turning or failing completely causing loss of power steering function.
  • Solution: Replace the power steering pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine will click when trying to start but may not start, or start intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Transmission

• A750F 5-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Shift Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifting, or failure to shift into certain gears. Check engine light may illuminate with transmission-related codes.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Poor fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+

Suspension

• Hydraulic Suspension (AHC) System Issues
  • AHC Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle not maintaining the correct ride height, sagging suspension, or the AHC warning light illuminating. The pump may be noisy before it fails.
    • Solution: Replace the AHC pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
  • AHC Accumulator Spheres Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A harsh or bouncy ride, particularly over bumps.
    • Solution: Replace the AHC accumulator spheres.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ (for all four)
  • AHC Height Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Incorrect ride height, AHC warning light illuminated, vehicle leaning to one side.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty height sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Lower Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, excessive play in the front wheels, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system screen failing to turn on, freezing, or displaying incorrect information.
  • Solution: Replacing the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminating, traction control light illuminating, and/or ABS system not functioning correctly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the frame and undercarriage, especially in areas where salt is used on roads.
  • Solution: Rust removal and undercoating.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on severity) Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Driver’s Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Driver’s side seat heater no longer heats up or heats inconsistently.
  • Solution: Replace the seat heater element.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failing, sunroof getting stuck, or leaking.
  • Solution: Replacing the sunroof motor or repairing/replacing the sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+

Summary

The 2006 Lexus LX470 is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues related to its advanced hydraulic suspension system, age-related engine component failures, and potential electrical problems. While some issues like valve cover gasket leaks are relatively inexpensive to fix, others, such as AHC pump failure or navigation system issues, can be quite costly. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to significant repair bills. Addressing these problems promptly can help to maintain the vehicle’s reliability and longevity. The biggest expenses are related to the AHC system, and carefully inspecting this system before purchase is recommended.