2003 Lexus Gx470 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 Gx470 problems
The Lexus GX470, produced from 2002 to 2009, has been known for some common issues that have been reported by owners of the 2003 model year.
One of the most common problems reported is clunking and squealing noises coming from the drivetrain.
Another drivetrain problem reported in some 2003 Lexus GX470 units is a failed secondary air injection system, which can cause the engine to run poorly or stall. In at least one case, replacing the bypass sensor resolved the issue. However, other repair jobs for this problem can rack up considerable costs.
The 2003 Lexus GX470 also has issues with its timing belt and water pump, which are supposed to be replaced every 90,000 miles
. If these components have not been replaced, it can lead to an expensive repair job.
In addition to these issues, the 2003 Lexus GX470 can also have problems with its CV bolt, which can leak and potentially lead to the need for a replacement CV axle joint
. The wheels of the GX470 are also known to peel and crack, which can look unattractive
The navigation and dash system of the 2003 Lexus GX470 can also be problematic. If the system fails, it can render the whole center console kind of useless, and the climate control and speed settings will no longer be adjustable
The 2003 Lexus GX470 can also have issues with its air suspension, which can leak and cause the vehicle to sag or ride lower than normal.
Finally, the 2003 Lexus GX470 can have problems with its rotors, which can warp under heavy braking or while towing, leading to the need for replacement
In summary, the 2003 Lexus GX470 has several common problems that have been reported by owners, including clunking and squealing noises from the drivetrain, failed secondary air injection systems, timing belt and water pump issues, CV bolt leaks, wheel peeling and cracking, navigation and dash system failures, air suspension leaks, and rotor warping.
What years to avoid Lexus GX470?
In a model year comparison, CarComplaints.com identified two particular years as the model's most problematic representatives. 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 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!
How long does a GX470 engine last?
This engine/power train will literally last forever if you properly maintain and correct issues when they occur. Now... if you went 150,000 miles just changing the oil&filter every 3-5k and the air filter every now and then.
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.
2003 Lexus Gx470 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Gx470 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Lexus Gx470 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Lexus Gx470
The NHTSA has received 52 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Lexus Gx470. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Lexus Gx470 vehicles.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-01
- VIN: JTJBT20XX30
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: FRAME IS ROTTING FROM INSIDE OUT, EXCESSIVE CORROSION. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE THAT WAS COMMON TO THE EARLY/MID 2000'S TOYOTA TUNDRA, TACOMA, AND 4RUNNER, THE LATTER OF WHICH SHARES FRAME COMPONENTS. TOYOTA, FOR WHATEVER REASON, COVERED THE TUNDRA AND TACOMA THROUGH RECALLS, BUT SO FAR HAS NOT DONE A RECALL ON THE 4RUNNER OR GX470.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-28
- VIN: JTJBT20X830
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Structure problem. Went to the mechanic for a routine oil change. He said the frame is rotted, rusted away so bad he could stick his finger through the frame. They said it was unsafe, couldn’t even hoist it up on the lift. The body, exterior looks fine, no rust at all, but the frame is evidently rotted away. Faulty metal or treatment??
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-21
- VIN: JTJBT20X330
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TOOK MY 2003 GX470 TO DEALERSHIP FOR OIL CHANGE AND TIRE ROTATION. IT HAS 128,000 MILES ON IT. THEY ADVISED AFTER REVIEWING FRAME STRUCTURE THAT THE VEHICLE CAN NO LONGER BE PUT ON A LIFT BECAUSE THE FRAME IS CRUMBLING AND ALSO ADVISED VEHICLE IS NOT SAFE TO BE DRIVEN. TOOK IT TO ANOTHER DEALERSHIP AND A FRAME SHOP FOR THEIR OPINION. THEY WERE AMAZED HOW THE BODY DIDN'T HAVE ANY RUST YET THE FRAME WAS TOTALLY FALLING APART. FRAME SHOP ALSO AGREED ONLY WAY TO MAKE IT SAFE WAS TOTAL FRAME REPLACEMENT. FOLLOWING UP WITH LEXUS DEALER ON FILING A CLAIM WITH LEXUS.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-20
- VIN: JTJBT20X130
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS IN LOW RANGE GOING IN REVERSE WITH A TRAILER VERY SLOW WHEN OUT OF NOWHERE IT ENGAGED FASTER AND WOULDN'T STOP ACCELERATING FOR 15 FEET OF THIS AND IT STOPPED MY FOOT WAS NOT ON THE GAS SO THERE WAS NO REASON WHY IT SHOULD HAVE ENGAGED IN THE MANNER THAT IT DID IN FACT I HAD BOTH FEET ON THE BRAKE TRYING TO STOP IT IT FELT LIKE I HIT SOMETHING WHEN IT STOPPED BUT I DIDN'T HIT ANYTHING. THIS ALL OCCURRED WHILE I WAS BACKING A BOAT INTO MY DRIVEWAY WHICH IS LEVEL GROUND
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-04
- VIN: JTJBT20X130
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WE TOOK IT TO A DEALERSHIP SERVICE CENTER TO HAVE BRAKES AND ROTORS REPLACED. IT WAS REPORTED TO US BY THE SHOP THAT WHEN THEY RAISED THE TRUCK, IT MADE NOISES AND THEY FELT IT WAS UNSAFE TO CONTINUE. THEY REPORTED TO US THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTED OR ROTTED, ESPECIALLY NEAR THE RIGHT REAREND, AND THAT IT WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE, THAT THE WHERL OR THE BACK END COULD COLLAPSE. LAST NIGHT, I DID EXTENSIVE RESEARCH ONLINE AND IT APPEARS THIS IS A LONG-STANDING ISSUE WITH TOYOTA FRAMES ON THEIR TRUCKS, WITH MANUFACTURING DEFECTS IN STEEL PRODUCTION AND SUBSEQUENT CHEMICAL TREATMENT ERRORS BEFORE TRUCK ASSEMBLY. EVIDENTLY THERE HAVE BEEN MASSIVE RECALLS OF TACOMA TRUCKS WHICH HAVE THE SAME FRAMES MADE BY A COMPANY IN OHIO CALLED DANA. WE ARE WAITING TO HEAR BACK FROM TOYOTA TODAY WHO ASSIGNED US A CASE MANAGER YESTERDAY WHILE WE WERE AT THE DEALERSHIP REPAIR SHOP. MANY OF THESE TRUCKS NEEDED A FRAME SWAP. THE EXTENT OF THE FRAME RUST AND ROT IS UNBELIEVABLE FOR THE AGE OF THE VEHICLE
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-02
- VIN: JTJBT20X130
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: FRAME IS ROTTING FROM INSIDE OUT, EXCESSIVE CORROSION ON AN OTHERWISE SPOTLESS VEHICLE. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE THAT WAS COMMON TO THE EARLY/MID 2000'S TOYOTA TUNDRA, TACOMA, AND 4RUNNER, THE LATTER OF WHICH SHARES FRAME COMPONENTS. TOYOTA, FOR WHATEVER REASON, COVERED THE TUNDRA AND TACOMA THROUGH RECALLS, BUT SO FAR HAS NOT DONE A RECALL ON THE 4RUNNER OR GX470.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-26
- VIN: JTJBT20X230
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: REAR SUSPENSION ARM BROKE A WAY FROM A FRAME SECTION THAT APPEARS ROTTED. NO OTHER RUST ON VEHICLE. THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING ON SMOOTH ROAD AND MADE VERY DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. SCARED TO THINK IF THIS HAPPENED AT HIGHWAY SPEED. AGAIN..THIS IS A CLEAN..NO RUST VEHICLE
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-24
- VIN: JTJBT20X630
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS GX470. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. ALSO, THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT ACTIVATED THE HAZARD LIGHTS AND ENGAGED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE DEALER (POHANKA HONDA OF FREDERICKSBURG, 60 S GATEWAY DR., FREDERICKSBURG, VA 22406, (540) 735-9100) WAS CALLED AND STATED THAT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD BE THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER. THE DEALER (POHANKA LEXUS CHANTILLY, 13909 LEE JACKSON MEMORIAL HWY, CHANTILLY, VA 20151, (703) 968-9100) WAS ALSO CONTACTED, BUT HAD NOT DIAGNOSED THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 183,400.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-25
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTJBT20X430
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FRONT AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY IN 35 MPH REAR END COLLISION WITH ANOTHER STATIONARY VEHICLE ON A BUSY INTERSTATE. THE OTHER CAR WAS TOTALED OUT. THERE WAS A PASSENGER IN THE VEHICLE AS WELL.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-08
- VIN: JTJBT20X130
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE HEADLIGHT LENS COVERS SLOWLY BECAME FOGGED OVER TIME CAUSING GRADUALLY DECREASING LIGHT OUTPUT. THE MANUFACTURER WANTS TO CHARGE TO POLISH OUT THE FOGGED LENS BUT THIS WOULD NOT HAPPEN IF THE MANUFACTURER DID DUE DILIGENCE IN ENGINEERING AND DESIGN DEVELOPMENT MATERIALS SELECTION. THIS SAFETY FLAW SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY SINCE THE MANUFACTURER IS PROVIDING MATERIALS INFERIOR TO PAST PROVEN STABLE MATERIALS (GLASS AND OTHER AVAILABLE PLASTICS THAT DON'T DEGRADE HAVE BEEN AVAILABLE FOR WELL OVER 70 YEARS). SERVICE CENTERS DO NOT OFFER INSPECTIONS TO MEASURE WHEN THE LIGHT OUTPUT DROPS BELOW FEDERAL SAFETY SPECIFICATIONS AND GLASS LENSES OF THE PAST NEVER SUFFERED THIS PROBLEM. MATERIALS THAT DON'T DEGRADE HAVE BEEN IN USE FOR MANY YEARS AND MANUFACTURERS SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO ADOPT LOWER PERFORMING MATERIALS FOR SAFETY CRITICAL SYSTEM COMPONENTS. INCOMPETENT MATERIALS ENGINEERING SHOULD BE PUNISHED BY REQUIRING THE MANUFACTURER TO REPLACE THESE LENSES AT NO CHARGE REGARDLESS OF THE AGE OF THE VEHICLE. IT IS NOT CLEAR WHEN THE LIGHT OUTPUT WAS OR WILL BE BELOW THE FEDERAL STANDARDS FOR VEHICLE SAFETY WHICH IS PART OF THE PROBLEM ! THIS IS WHY THE DATE OF OCCURRENCE IS UNCERTAIN AND TODAYS DATE IS USED.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-01
- VIN: JTJBT20X230
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAVE BEEN WAITING OVER 3 YEARS TO GET THE CRACKED / MELTING DASHBOARD REPAIRED UNDER THE RECALL I RECEIVED OVER 3 YEARS AGO. I SPOKE TO THE LOCAL LEXUS DEALER AND THEY SAID I WAS STILL # 49 IN LINE TO GET THIS DONE. REALLY ? AFTER 3 YEARS. HOW PATIENT DOES ONE NEED TO BE ? I BELIEVE A CIVIL SUIT IS IN ORDER HERE. WITH THE TIME AND TRIPS TO THE DEALER FOR THIS AND IT'S STILL NOT HANDLED - SOMEONE WITH SOME AUTHORITY NEEDS TO PRESS THIS ISSUE WITH LEXUS.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-10
- VIN: JTJBT20X130
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: IT IS POSSIBLE TO SIMULTANEOUSLY DEPRESS THE GAS PEDAL WHEN BRAKING, THIS CAUSES SUDDEN UNCONTROLLABLE ACCELERATION I REPORTED THE INCIDENT TOO TOYOTA AND REQUESTED UPGRADED ECU SOFTWARE THAT DISABLES THE GAS PEDAL WHILE BRAKING TOYOTA REFUSED TO PROVIDE A SIMPLE SOFTWARE FIX MY WIFE IS A WITNESS. *TR
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-12
- VIN: JTJBT20X030
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER OF A GX470 LEXUS. THIS VEHICLE ALONG WITH OTHER VEHICLES IS GARAGE KEPT. I DON'T DRIVE SOME OF MY VEHICLES A LOT AS WITH MY GX470 BECAUSE OF THE GAS MILEAGE AND DIFFICULTY IN PARKING VERSES MY C-CLASS MERCEDES BENZ AND OTHER CARS. BUT IN MARCH OF THIS YEAR I NOTICED SEVERE CRACKING IN MY FRONT DASH WHILE TAKING A LONG TRIP. THE CRACKING IS SO SEVERE THAT IT GOES ACROSS THE FRONT DASH WHERE THE PASSENGER'S AIR BAGS ARE LOCATED. THE CRACKING HAS ALSO CAUSED THE SPEAKERS SOUND TO BE DISTORTED. I CONTACTED LEXUS, BUT AT THE TIME I DID NOT KNOW THAT THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF LEXUSES GX470S THAT HAVE THE SAME EXACT PROBLEM. ONE OF THE THINGS I WOULD SUGGEST IS THAT THOSE LEXUS OWNERS LIKE MYSELF THAT IS GOING TO FILE A LAWSUIT SHOULD GET TOGETHER. MY EMAIL ADDRESS IS: [XXX] I ALSO THINK THAT A WAY TO GET THE ADDITION OF LEXUS AND POTENTIAL LEXUS BUYERS THAT HAVE NO IDEA THAT THIS PROBLEM THAT KIA OWNERS DON'T HAVE TO FACE IS THE PLAN A PROTEST OF LEXUS DEALERSHIPS NATIONWIDE. SATURDAY IS A BIG DAY IN THE CAR BUSINESS; BELIEVE ME I USE TO WORK IN THE INDUSTRY. TO HAVE EVEN JUST THREE TO FOUR PROTESTORS WITH SIGNS WARNING POTENTIAL LEXUS CUSTOMERS OF WHAT LEXUS OWNERS ARE EXPERIENCING AND THE FACT THAT LEXUS IS REFUSING TO MAKE THIS RIGHT WILL GET LEXUS ATTENTION. THIS IS NOT A PROBLEM BASED ON THE CONSUMER BUT LEXUS AND WHATEVER COMPANY THAT THEY CONTRACTED WITH TO PRODUCE THESE DASH. I AM PERSONALLY GOING TO SUE LEXUS. I WOULD BE WILLING TO SHARE MY PLEADINGS WITH ANYONE ELSE, BUT I CANNOT GIVE LEGAL ADVISE OF ANY KIND BECAUSE I AM NOT AN ATTORNEY. PLEADINGS ARE PUBLIC RECORD. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-08
- VIN: JTJBT20X930
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE DASHBOARD IS CRACKED AND MELTED.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-17
- VIN: JTJBT20X130
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HAIRLINE CRACKS IN DASHBOARD. GARAGE KEPT. *TR
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-21
- VIN: JTJBT20X930
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHEN I WAS DRIVING MY LEXUS GX470 (2003) WITH MY FAMILY ON A LOCAL STREET AT AROUND 35 MPH, MY VEHICLE SUDDENLY STOPPED BY ITSELF. THE BRAKES ENGAGE BY ITSELF AND THE VEHICLE STABILITY CONTROL ACTIVATED WITH BEEPS. FORTUNATELY, NO ONE WAS BEHIND ME. I TOOK MY CAR TO THE LOCAL MECHANIC, HE CHECKED THE BRAKES, CALIPERS..ETC, HE SAID EVERYTHING IS FINE BUT HE COULDN?T FIND ANY REASON WHY IT HAPPENED, HE ASKED ME TO CONTACT LEXUS DEALER. I CALLED THE LEXUS DEALER SERVICE CENTER, I EXPLAINED THE SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED, HE TOLD ME TO CHECK THE BRAKE CALIPERS, I TOLD HIM THE MECHANIC ALREADY CHECKED IT. ANYWAY, EVEN THE LEXUS DEALER COULDN'T EXPLAIN WHY IT HAPPENED. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-30
- VIN: JTJBT20X230
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SEVERAL CRACKS (SOME HAIRLINE AND OTHERS WIDER) HAVE APPEARED ALL OVER THE DASHBOARD, NEAR VENTS, ABOVE INSTRUMENT CONSOLE AND IN FRONT OF THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG COVER. INITIALLY, I THOUGHT THIS WAS AN ISOLATED OCCURRENCE BUT IN RESEARCHING THIS TOPIC ONLINE I REALIZED THIS IS PERVASIVE ISSUE WITH THIS MODEL AND IT'S OVERSEAS COUSIN PRADO. THIS IS CLEARLY A MANUFACTURING DEFECT THAT TOYOTA AND LEXUS MUST CORRECT. I BELIEVE THE CRACKS OVER THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG COVER POSE A SAFETY RISK WITH POTENTIAL INTERFERENCE WITH THE OPERATION OF THE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT. TO BE SURE THIS WASN'T AN ISOLATED OCCURRENCE, I HAVE VISUALLY INSPECTED 5 OTHER GX 470S IN TAMPA AREA (RANDOMLY) OVER THE LAST MONTH AND EACH ONE OF THEM HAD THE SAME CRACKS ON THEIR DASHBOARDS. HERE ARE LINKS TO OWNER FORUM SITES I SURVEYED TO GET A SENSE OF THIS PROBLEM WORLDWIDE ... HTTP://US.LEXUSOWNERSCLUB.COM/FORUMS/TOPIC/54056-03-GX470-DASHBOARD-CRACKS/ HTTP://WWW.CLUBLEXUS.COM/FORUMS/GX-FIRST-GENERATION/427349-CRACKED-DASHBOARD.HTML HTTP://US.LEXUSOWNERSCLUB.COM/FORUMS/TOPIC/61250-GX470-CRACKED-DASH/ HTTP://WWW.PRADOPOINT.COM/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?12073-CRACKED-DASHBOARD/PAGE15 NHTSA MUST ASK LEXUS TO SURVEY GX 470 OWNERS ON THIS ISSUE TO CONFIRM THE EXTENT OF THE PROBLEM. IF THE INCIDENT RATES ARE AS HIGH AS I BELIEVE THEY ARE, THIS SHOULD BE A BASIS FOR A RECALL AND LEXUS SHOULD BE FORCED TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-16
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JTJBT20X330
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS GX470. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE HYDROPLANED AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT WAS INJURED AND WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE INSURANCE COMPANY TOWED THE VEHICLE TO A BODY SHOP; HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED AND A REPORT WAS FILED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 104,805.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-12
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTJBT20X930
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING MY 2003 LEXUS GX470 ON MY WAY TO THE HOSPITAL WITH MY THREE YEAR OLD SON ' WHO WAS EXPERIENCING BREATHING PROBLEMS. I LOST CONTROL OF THE SUV NEAR THE EXIT FOR THE HOSPITAL ' AS I WAS PREPARING TO TAKE THE EXIT FROM THE FREEWAY. THE VEHICLE WENT OFF-BALANCE AND DID A 360 DEGREE ROLLOVER FROM THE EXIT RAMP. I ENDED UP IN THE MEDIAN BETWEEN THE OFF RAMP AND THE ON RAMP. MY SON AND I WERE INTACT AFTER THE ACCIDENT. THE VEHICLE BEHAVED ERRATICALLY DURING THE EPISODE ' AND I COULD NOT FIGURE OUT WHAT WAS HAPPENING WITH THE CONTROLS. I WOULD LIKE FOR NHTSA TO LOOK INTO THE STABILITY SYSTEM OF THIS VEHICLE ' BASED ON THIS EXPERIENCE AND RECENT NEWS OF SIMILAR VEHICLES FROM LEXUS. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-26
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- VIN: JTJBT20X830
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: WE WERE PROCEEDING TO MAKE A R.H. TURN FROM ON TWO LANE ROAD TO ANOTHER IN A 2003 LEXUS GX WHEN THE ACCELERATOR STUCK AND ESC COMPLETELY FAILED . ALTHOUGH I PUSHED TRANSMISSION'S LEVER IN NEUTRAL . THE REAR END SKIDDED OUTWARD AND NO ESC OR ABS WAS EVIDENT. I STEERED INTO SKID AND THEN STEERED INTO DITCH TO AVOID OFFSET COLLISION WITH ONCOMING TRAFFIC. AND SKIDDED INTO DITCH ON OPPOSITE SIDE OF ROAD . SEVERE CONCUSSION AND AMNESIA FOR DRIVER AS DEAD SLAMMED INTO DRIVER'S WINDOW . PASSENGER SUFFERED LEFT LEG INJURY. I REPORTED TWO PRIOR INCIDENTS TO NHTSA JAN 9 , 2010 , ETC AND NO RESPONSE . NOW I AM GOING PUBLIC AND TO SENATOR ROCKERFELLER THAT NHTSA IS TOTALLY UNRESPONSIVE. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-05
- VIN: JTJBT20X230
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: IN 2007 OR 2008 THE ACCELERATOR ON MY LEXUS GX 470 STUCK IN THE WIDE OPEN POSITION. I HAD FLOORED THE ACCELERATOR TO PASS A TRUCK AND WHEN TAKING MY FOOT OFF THE ACCELERATOR THE CAR WOULD NOT SLOW DOWN. I WAS ABLE TO APPLY THE BRAKES WITH MUCH EFFORT AND TURN OF THE IGNITION. THE FLOOR MAT WAS NOT PART OF THE PROBLEM. I THEN RESTARTED THE CAR AND IT DROVE NORMAL. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE LEXUS DEALERSHIP WHERE I PURCHASED THE CAR NEW, WHICH IS LEXUS OF MISHAWAKA, INDIANA. THEY INSPECTED THE CAR AND SAID THEY COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG AND THAT IT WAS PROBABLY THE FLOOR MAT. IT WAS NOT THE FLOOR MAT. I TRADED THE CAR IN AT LEXUS OF MISHAWAKA IN NOVEMBER OF 2008. I NO LONGER OWN THE CAR. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-08
- VIN: JTJBT20X330
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I OWN A 2003 LEXUS GX470. ON FRIDAY JANUARY 8TH AS I WAITED FOR TRAFFIC TO CLEAR BEFORE TURNING RIGHT TO ENTER A BLVD, THE ENGINE SUDDENLY BEGAN TO RACE WHILE MY RIGHT FOOT FORCED DOWN THE BRAKE PEDAL TO PREVENT THE CAR FROM "LAUNCHING" INTO THE CROSS TRAFFIC. THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHUDDER AND SHAKE AND MY DAD YELLED "YOU'RE SPINNING YOUR TIRES!" I YELLED "MY FOOT IS ON THE BRAKE, WHAT SHOULD I DO?" WE TURNED OFF THE IGNITION AND THE ENGINE STOPPED RUNNING. LATER, WHILE MY DAD OBSERVED FROM THE OPEN DRIVER'S-SIDE DOOR, I ROUGHLY TRUMPED ON THE GAS PEDAL 2 OR 3 TIMES BECAUSE WE WERE VAGUELY AWARE OF A TOYOTA "ACCELERATOR STICKING" PROBLEM. I THEN STARTED THE CAR AND DROVE IT SEVERAL MILES - WHILE TOTALLY TERRIFIED. IMMEDIATELY I ARRANGED TO HAVE THE CAR TRANSPORTED TO MY DEALER'S FACILITIES. AND, AFTER THREE DAYS OF "TESTING," NO PROBLEM WAS FOUND AND I DROVE HOME, SHAKING. SO, JUDGING FROM RECENT MEDIA REPORTS, WHAT WAS NEW OR DIFFERENT ABOUT MY EXPERIENCE? 1) NO MATS WERE EVER USED IN THE DRIVER'S COMPARTMENT DURING THE FIVE YEARS I HAVE OWNED THE CAR. 2) THE ENGINE WAS "AT IDLE" AND THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BEFORE THE ENGINE BEGAN TO SUDDENLY RACE. 3) I AM NOT A "TWO-FOOT" DRIVER...NEVER, EVER. 4) MY DAD CHECKED (YES, HE IS A MECHANICAL ENGINEER) TO SEE IF THE GAS PEDAL WAS IN ITS CORRECT IDLE POSITION AFTER SHUT-OFF: THE PETAL POSITION WAS NORMAL, NORMAL BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER BEING "TRUMPED" ON. 5) MY CAR WAS NOT MOVING, JUST WAITING, AT IDLE, WITH NO OPERATOR INTERVENTION PRIOR OR DURING ENGINE REV-UP. IN A NUT-SHELL, MY NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCE COULD NOT HAVE BEEN PROVOKED BY A MECHANICAL PROBLEM WITH THE ACCELERATOR PETAL. THIS FAILURE HAS NOT HAPPENED AGAIN... NO REPAIR WAS MADE... MY DEALER CLAIMED THAT NOTHING LIKE THIS HAS HAPPENED ON A LEXUS THAT THEY KNEW ABOUT...BUT CONGRESSIONAL TESTIMONY TODAY SHOWS THAT OTHER LEXUS OWNERS HAVE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ENGINE ACCELERATION WITH NO PEDAL INVOLVEMENT. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-06
- VIN: JTJBT20X830
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: I WAS TRAVELING WEST ON A TWO LANE PAVED ROAD (SUTTON ROAD) NEAR SUTTON SCHOOL. WEATHER WAS SNOWING AND ROAD CONDITIONS SLIPPERY WHEN MY ACCERERATOR FAILED TO RETURN TO IDLE POSITION. I APPLIED BRAKES AS I WAS APPROACHING A VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME TRAVELING IN THE SAME DIRECTION. THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL FAILED TO MAINTAIN STRAIGHT DIRECTION AS PER DESIGN INTENT AND MANUALS. FRONT BEGAN SLIDING TO LEFT AND REAR OF VEHICLE BEGAN SLIDING TO RIGHT. I NCREASED BRAKE PRESSURE AND STEERED INTO TH SKID , TO THE RIGHT. I WAS ABLE TO MISS THE CONTACT WITH ANY OTHER VEHICLES AND OR DAMAGE ANY PROPERTY , BUT DID END UP SLIDING INTO A DITCH OFF OF THE ROAD. WITH THE IMPACT RESULTING IN THE DEATH OF MY SERVICE DOG . AS I AM HANDICAPPED. NO DAMAGE TO MY VEHICLE , BUT NO I AM VIRTUALLY IMMOBILE WITH THE LOSS IF MY DEAR SERVICE DOG.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-02
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTJBT20X330
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS GX470. WHEN SHE ATTEMPTED TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE INTO A PARKING SPACE, IT SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND CRASHED IN TO A PARKED VEHICLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT TAKEN AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. A LOCAL MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTJBT20X030
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS GX470. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE GARAGE, THE CONTACT'S MOTHER-IN-LAW ACCIDENTALLY ACTIVATED THE FOUR WHEEL DRIVE BUTTON. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE BACKED OUT OF THE GARAGE AND CRASHED INTO A PARKED VEHICLE IN THE DRIVEWAY. THE PURCHASE DATE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 85,000.
2003 Lexus Gx470 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2003 Lexus Gx470.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE LEXUS LINK SYSTEM, IT MAY BE DIFFICULT TO LOCK ONE OF THE TWO LATCHES ON THE BOTTOM OF THE MIDDLE ROW LEFT REAR SEAT (LARGER SIDE OF THE BENCH SEAT DIRECTLY BEHIND THE DRIVER). DUE TO THE THICKNESS OF THE LEXUS LINK SYSTEM STORAGE CASE, THE STOPPER ON THE BOTTOM OF THE SEAT IS SLIGHTLY ELEVATED. THIS ELEVATED POSITION MISALIGNS THE LATCH TO THE STRIKER.
- Consequence: IF THE VEHICLE IS OPERATED WITH ONLY ONE LATCH LOCKED, THE OCCUPANT OF THE SEAT MAY BE IMPROPERLY RESTRAINED IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE LLS CASE PANELS AROUND THE SEAT STOPPER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 8, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT LEXUS AT 1-888-333-9376.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF PART 567, "CERTIFICATION." THE INCORRECT GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING (GVWR) DATA WAS PRINTED ON THE CERTIFICATION REGULATION LABEL. THE GVWR IS INCORRECTLY REFLECTED ON THE LABEL AS 6,100 LBS. THE CORRECT GVWR SHOULD BE 6,000 LBS.
- Consequence: THE CERTIFICATION LABEL DOES NOT MEET THE INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS AS DESCRIBED IN THE REGULATIONS.
- Remedy: AS EACH LABEL IS VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER SPECIFIC, OWNERS WILL BE REQUESTED TO CONTACT THEIR LOCAL LEXUS DEALER FIRST TO PLACE AN ORDER FOR THE CORRECTED LABEL. ONCE THE LABEL HAS ARRIVED AT THE DEALERSHIP, THE OWNER WILL BE CONTACTED FOR LABEL REPLACEMENT. OWNER BEGAN APRIL 10, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.
Negative 2003 Lexus Gx470 car reviews
Positive 2003 Lexus Gx470 car reviews
-
In 2016, I purchased a 2003 Lexus GX 470 with 215,000 miles on it. Since then, I have had all of the gaskets replaced and the front brakes fixed. This car is incredibly smooth and safe to drive. It has both AWD and 4WD capabilities, but I usually keep it in AWD. The ride is as smooth as silk and the paint still has a glossy finish in its gorgeous Sand Gold color. I have taken it up hills on dirt roads where trucks had to go into 4 wheel drive, but I did not need to. It is a reliable and safe car that just keeps going like a tank. Today, I watched the odometer turn 272,000 miles and I recently had to put new tires on it. I absolutely love it!
-
I bought my first Lexus from my best friend. The GX is 5 years old and has only 35K miles on it. The interior is in excellent shape and has held up well to my two kids. I absolutely love the comfort selection option, especially the comfort-sport feature. I haven't found anything about this vehicle that I don't love. There is very little road noise, the feature options are excellent, and the sunroof doesn't leak like in other vehicles we've owned. The rumble seats take some getting used to, but they are easy to pop-up or put-down.
-
Congratulations on your new purchase! It's great to hear that your 14 year old 2003 Lexus GX 470 has been such a reliable and impressive vehicle for you. It's clear that you take great care of your car, with regular maintenance and replacing parts when necessary. Your Firestone LE Destination 2 tires have certainly served you well, with an impressive mileage of just shy of 72,000 miles. It's no surprise that you receive compliments on your vehicle all the time. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us, and we wish you many more happy miles on the road!
-
This car has it all, and with Lexus' great leasing program, the cost is kept down. The only downside is the on-board computer system, which may take a bit of time to learn. But don't worry, the manual is very helpful and easy to understand!
-
The Lexus GX 470 is a fantastic luxury sports utility vehicle! I couldn't find any faults with it, and even though I got a few options I didn't need, I know the resale value will be there for someone who does. It's a great LUV!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Lexus Gx470 problems:
What issues need to look for when buying 2003/2004 GX470 with ...
What issues need to look for when buying 2003/2004 GX470 with 200k miles 1. Rust underneath 2. transfer case leaking 3. air suspension rear ...
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.
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 ...
Lexus GX470 Reliability and Common Problems - In The Garage ...
5 days ago ... Clunking and squealing noises coming from the drivetrain have been reported in some units of the 2003 Lexus GX470. The noises tend to start ...
Other years of Lexus Gx470
Are you having problems with your 2003 Lexus Gx470?
Jamir Kertzmann 2024-07-12
This SUV is reliable, quiet, and smooth, but it may not be the best choice for those who enjoy driving. However, it does perform well off-road. It's worth noting that without KDSS (an additional option), the truck may not be as stable. Additionally, it's important to consider that this vehicle may experience a significant loss of market value.