2018 Lexus GX460

The 2018 Lexus GX 460 is a body-on-frame SUV known for its off-road capability, luxurious interior, and reputation for reliability, although some owners feel its on-road handling and fuel economy are not up to par with more modern SUVs. All 2018 GX 460 models come equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the GX460 offers a comfortable and capable ride, there are some recurring issues that owners have reported.

Engine

4.6L V8 (1UR-FE)

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, leading to a burning oil smell and potential oil consumption. Visible oil residue may be present around the valve cover area.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks (often pink or orange), and possible engine damage. Whining noise from the water pump area.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

A760E 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration felt during light acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This can be more pronounced when the transmission is warm.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush using the correct WS fluid. If the shudder persists, the torque converter may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 for fluid flush, $1500 - $3000+ for torque converter replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging of the rear suspension, uneven ride height, compressor failing to engage, or “off” light constantly displayed on the dash.
  • Solution: Diagnose the system for leaks in the air lines or failing airbags. The air compressor may also need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per air spring, $800 - $1200+ for compressor replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Freezing or Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or randomly reboots.
  • Solution: A software update might resolve the issue. If not, the infotainment unit might need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update available), $1000 - $2000+ for unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery frequently dies, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for a short period. This can be caused by a parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic draw by testing each fuse, and then replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the source of the draw.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the tail light housings.
  • Solution: Remove the taillight and reseal it, or replace the tail light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-200 for resealing. $300 - $800+ per tail light assembly to replace.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or install a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 for a cover. $1500 - $3000+ for full dashboard replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Lexus GX 460, while generally reliable, can exhibit some issues with the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior. The most frequently reported issues are the valve cover gasket leaks, infotainment issues, and dashboard cracking. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for more extensive repairs like replacing the air suspension or dashboard. While some of these issues may seem costly, the GX 460 is still known to be a reliable vehicle and is a popular choice among consumers.