2012 Lexus GX460
The 2012 Lexus GX 460 is a luxury SUV known for its ruggedness, comfortable ride, and off-road capability. It is powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its reliability, luxurious interior, and smooth ride. Criticisms often include its dated infotainment system, relatively poor fuel economy, and body-on-frame handling characteristics compared to more modern crossovers.
Engine
4.6L V8 (1UR-FE)
- Secondary Air Injection System Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, codes related to the secondary air injection system (P0410, P0412, P0415, P0416, P041F, P2440, P2441, P2442, P2443, P2444). Noisy or failing secondary air injection pump.
- Solution: Replacement of the secondary air injection pump, valve(s), or associated hoses. Bypassing the system is possible, but not recommended as it can lead to smog check failures.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the components replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks on the sides of the engine. Burning smell from oil dripping onto exhaust components. Visible oil accumulation around the valve covers.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
A760E 6-Speed Automatic
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Failure (Rear)
- Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sagging or not maintaining proper ride height. Air compressor running constantly or not at all. Error messages related to the air suspension system.
- Solution: Replacement of the air springs, air compressor, or height sensors. Checking for leaks in the air lines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ depending on the component(s) that need replacing.
- Recalls: None Found
- Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaking from the KDSS accumulators or lines. Vehicle leaning excessively in corners. Abnormal noises from the suspension system.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking KDSS components (accumulators, lines, seals).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the extent of the damage and which components need replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Navigation/Radio System Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Navigation system freezing or not functioning. Radio losing signal or not turning on.
- Solution: Software update. Replacement of the navigation/radio unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Starter Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Grinding or clicking noise when attempting to start the vehicle, engine not turning over, or intermittent starting issues.
- Solution: Replacement of the starter motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$800+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Frame
- Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the frame, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. Can lead to structural weakness and safety concerns.
- Solution: Rust removal and treatment, application of rust-preventative coatings. In severe cases, frame replacement or repair may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5000+ depending on severity
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or application of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the extent of the damage and chosen solution.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2012 Lexus GX 460 is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues. The most common issues often involve the secondary air injection system and the air suspension. KDSS and dashboard cracking are also issues to look out for. Repair costs can vary greatly depending on the problem, but some repairs can be quite expensive. Overall, many issues are moderate to deal with, however suspension issues can be costly.