2003 Lexus Gx problems
The Lexus GX (Japanese: レクサス・GX, Hepburn: Rekusasu GX) is a mid/full-size luxury SUV sold in North American and Eurasian markets by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota. The GX is based on the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, from which it derives its off-road capability. Lexus introduced the first generation, known as the GX 470 in 2002, and subsequently became the third SUV to enter the Lexus lineup. A full-time four-wheel drive system is standard with low-range gearing. The 4.7-liter V8 engine in the GX 470 was the same as used on the larger LX 470. The firm next introduced the second-generation model in 2009, badged GX 460 to reflect the switch to a 4.6-liter V8 engine. Lexus later released a lower displacement GX 400 in 2012 for the Chinese market, with a 4.0-liter V6 engine. The third-generation model introduced in 2023 uses the GX 550 moniker with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine and GX 550h with a turbocharged hybrid electric 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine.
As of 2024, the GX is positioned between the larger LX or TX and the smaller RX. Though it is thought the GX has always been larger than the RX, from 2015 to 2022, the RX is slightly longer and slightly wider than the GX and therefore the GX was considered smaller. All GX production has occurred at the Tahara plant in Japan, alongside the Land Cruiser Prado and the export-minded Toyota 4Runner.
Some countries classify the GX as a full-size vehicle (e.g., Australia), while some classify it as a mid-size vehicle (e.g., US), depending on local regulations.
Social links
Common 2003 Lexus Gx problems
The Lexus GX 2003 is known for its reliability and durability, but like any vehicle, it can develop problems over time. Here are some of the most common issues reported by owners of the 2003 Lexus GX 470:
- Differential bearings: Some 2006 Lexus GX470 owners have reported that the differential bearings have failed, even in vehicles that were well-maintained and had low mileage.
- Secondary air injection system: The 2006 Lexus GX470's V8 engine, which it shares with some Toyota Tundra and Toyota 4-Runner model years, is known to have issues with the secondary air injection system. In some cases, replacing the bypass sensor has resolved the issue, but other repair jobs can be quite costly.
- Timing belt and water pump: The timing belt and water pump in the 2003 Lexus GX470 need to be replaced every 90,000 miles, and this can be a costly job. It's important to check if the vehicle has had this maintenance done and to budget for it if not .
- CV bolt: The CV bolt is a common issue in the GX470, and if not addressed, it can lead to the need for a more expensive CV axle joint replacement .
- Wheels: The wheels of the GX470 are known to peel and crack, which can be unsightly and affect the vehicle's appearance .
- Navigation and dash system: Some owners have reported issues with the navigation and dash system, which can affect the climate control and other functions of the vehicle. It's important to check if the system is working properly before purchasing a GX470 .
- Center diff: The center diff in the GX470 can sometimes fail to lock, which can affect the vehicle's performance and handling. It's important to check if the center diff is working properly before purchasing a GX470 .
In summary, while the Lexus GX 2003 is known for its reliability and durability, it's important to be aware of these common issues and to check for them before purchasing a vehicle. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these problems and ensure that the GX470 remains a reliable and enjoyable vehicle to own and drive.
What year to avoid GX 470?
The highest number of complaints involved the 2006 Lexus GX470. However, the 2003 model year is considered the worst GX470 for reasons like higher repair cost for its particular problems.
How many miles is a Lexus GX good for?
In general, cars from this luxury brand can easily last 250,000 to 300,000 miles. While cars from other brands can last for around 150,000 miles, a Lexus can double that estimation and allows drivers to push the absolute limit of the vehicle's longevity before a replacement is necessary.
What is the best year for the Lexus GX470?
According to fourwheeltrends.com, the 2009 Lexus GX 470 is the best year for this vehicle style. You can pick from several trim levels, features, and additional options for your car. There is a lot to love about this vehicle for those who want a combination between adventure and class.
How reliable is the Lexus GX470?
Most reliable SUV
Fantastic vehicle, if you can prove the vehicle has been well maintained.. and you're in the market.. BUY IT. Great for a daily computer or going on off-road adventures!
2003 Lexus Gx complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Lexus Gx.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Lexus Gx problems:
What issues need to look for when buying 2003/2004 GX470 with ...
1. Rust underneath · 2. transfer case leaking · 3. rear air suspension · 4. timing belt (need to replace 100k miles or 10 years) serpentine belt · 5 ...
03 GX470 new owner with questions on common problems ...
Aug 12, 2011 ... I just bought my first Lexus, fully loaded with all possible option that came in 2003 BUT 256K miles on it and broken timing belt and bend ...
Most common problems GX460 for current owners | IH8MUD Forum
To answer your question: radiator leak, water pump, valley plate leak, timing cover leak, secondary air filter (covered by recall/warranty).
Common Issues Of GX470 / What issues have you encountered ...
Feb 14, 2012 ... Common Issues Of GX470 / What issues have you encountered? · 1) Clunk sound from driveshaft · 2) dashboard cracking. Powered By. 10 Sec. 1.8M 70.
2003 Lexus GX470 Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Lexus GX470? Our list of 9 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Lexus GX470.
Other years of Lexus Gx
Are you having problems with your 2003 Lexus Gx?
Leave your review of 2003 Lexus Gx