2020 Lexus GX460

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 is a luxury SUV known for its ruggedness, off-road capabilities, and comfortable ride. It offers a blend of traditional SUV attributes with Lexus’s signature refinement. However, some owners find its fuel economy disappointing and its infotainment system outdated. The 2020 GX 460 comes equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. No other powertrain options are available for this model year.

Engine

4.6L V8 (1UR-FE)

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket onto the engine, causing a burning oil smell and potential oil consumption. The leak is often visible upon inspection.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak around the water pump or other components of the cooling system, causing overheating or low coolant levels.
  • Solution: Replace any leaking components and repair the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Vacuum Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine Vacuum Leak, causing rough idling, poor engine performance, and illumination of the check engine light.
  • Solution: Smoke test, repair vacuum leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

A760F 6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported occasional harsh shifting, particularly when downshifting or during low-speed maneuvers. Hesitation when accelerating may also be present.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and software update can resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) to $3,000+ (transmission rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: If the vehicle is equipped with the optional air suspension, the compressor may fail, leading to a saggy or uneven ride height. The “AHC” (Active Height Control) light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Airbag Leaks (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear airbag in the air suspension begins to leak, or crack
  • Solution: Rear airbag replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can be slow to respond, glitchy, or experience screen freezes. Bluetooth connectivity issues are also reported.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve minor issues. More severe problems may require replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) to $1500+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain overnight or over a couple of days, causing the vehicle to not start.
  • Solution: Parasitic draw test and electrical diagnostics and repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive rust can form on the undercarriage of the vehicle due to exposure to salt.
  • Solution: Rust Mitigation - wire wheel and paint or fluid film
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard material cracks, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard Replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sticky/Melted Buttons
  • Description/Symptoms: Certain buttons on the center console or steering wheel can become sticky or feel like they are melting over time, particularly in hot weather.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected buttons or trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Lexus GX 460, while generally reliable, has some common issues owners may encounter. Engine issues like valve cover gasket leaks and electrical issues, such as infotainment glitches, are relatively common and can range in severity and cost. Suspension issues are likely if the vehicle is equipped with the air suspension. The severity of these issues varies, but some repairs can be costly, particularly those involving the transmission, air suspension, or infotainment system. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and carefully inspect the vehicle before purchasing.