2011 Lexus GS460

The 2011 Lexus GS460 is a luxury sedan that offers a blend of performance and comfort. It was only offered with one engine option: a 4.6-liter V8 engine that produced 342 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the GS460 for its smooth ride, powerful engine, comfortable interior, and reliability. However, some common complaints include the somewhat dated infotainment system and the lack of rear seat legroom compared to some competitors.

Engine

4.6L V8 (1UR-FSE)

• Oil Leak from Timing Cover/Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the front of the engine near the timing cover or from the valve covers. This can cause a burning smell, low oil levels, and visible oil stains on the engine or garage floor.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing cover gasket or valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ (depending on location and extent of the leak, may be more if the timing cover needs to be removed).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, and a whining noise from the front of the engine. The water pump may be leaking coolant or failing to circulate it properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (AA80E)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifting, especially between lower gears. The transmission may hesitate or clunk when shifting.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush with Toyota WS fluid, and possibly reprogramming the transmission control module (TCM). In more severe cases, valve body repair or replacement might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (fluid flush and reprogramming), $800 - $2500+ (valve body repair/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sitting unevenly, the air suspension compressor running constantly, or a “check air suspension” warning light illuminating on the dashboard. The air struts or compressor may be leaking or failing.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air struts and/or the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut (depending on location), $500-$1500+ for the compressor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. The vehicle may also exhibit vague steering or uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per control arm (depending on whether bushings or the entire arm are replaced).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, slow response times, GPS malfunction, or difficulty pairing devices via Bluetooth. The system may become outdated and lack modern features.
  • Solution: Software updates (if available), replacing the head unit, or seeking repair from a specialized electronics technician.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (software update, if available), $500 - $2000+ (head unit replacement, aftermarket options may be cheaper)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the headlight bulbs.
  • Solution: Removing the headlight assembly and drying it out, resealing the headlight housing, or replacing the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (resealing), $500 - $1500+ (headlight assembly replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard, installing a dashboard cover, or repairing the cracks with specialized materials.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (dashboard replacement), $50 - $200 (dashboard cover), $200 - $500+ (professional crack repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Lexus GS460 is generally a reliable vehicle, but some common issues can arise. Engine oil leaks, water pump failures, harsh transmission shifting, air suspension problems (if equipped), electrical glitches, and interior defects are the most frequently reported problems. The severity of these issues varies, and the cost to repair them can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the specific problem and the repair method. Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the vehicle’s performance and longevity.