PROBLEMS to LOOK FOR When BUYING a LEXUS GX 470

I discuss the main issues you need to look for when searching for and going to purchase a Lexus GX 470. This could help you save thousands of dollars in repairs or help you negotiate the price down when buying. It took me about 4 months to find what I considered the best example of a GX 470 for my budget. Please subscribe so you don't miss any future videos! Love talking with you all, don't be afraid to leave a comment!
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[@uknowhim21]

Hey guys, please make sure you subscribe so you can see more content and gently hit that like button. Hope you liked the video and I’ll see you all on the next one!

[@Equilatero...]

I live in Puerto Rico and I plan to buy a GX470 soon. I think that if I found one with problems on the dashboard, I would end up putting a carbon fiber vinyl on it that looks more beautiful

[@nicholash8021]

Don't forget, as with most Lexus vehicles, and particularly with this GX 470... this is one of the most reliable vehicles ever built, including the butter-smooth V8 engine.

[@celyndatingey7740]

I will add the exhaust manifold problem to this list. Common problem with the otherwise bullet proof 2UZ-FE motor that pops up around 100- 150k miles . It’s an expensive fix whether you replace with headers or OEM manifold. Also, when you do your next brake job, I’d recommend slotted rotors over OEM.

[@dpo5884]

I have a 2008. Everything you said is definitely worth looking out for.. This truck is a beast and soo well made.

[@uknowhim21]

Thanks for watching. Yah it’s awesome. I’m really enjoying it!

[@driojal]

On the recall they sent the GX owners the money so they can take it to the dealer to get the dashboard cover replaced and most of the people kept the money. Radiator is not a big turn down less than $200 and DIY in 30 minutes.

[@uknowhim21]

Did not know they sent them money. I didn’t read that anywhere before. Interesting. I agree about the radiator. But something to still lookout for.

[@DC-kj3in]

There is a dedicated tag for marking the timing belt change. It is located under the engine shroud on the left side of the engine (passengers side of the car).

[@Sci-Fi_Fan296]

Wow this video was so helpful! I look forward to utilizing your tips to find mine once I'm ready to buy one. I have a feeling that this video will age well and will gain traction over time. Glad it was recommended to me.

[@uknowhim21]

Thanks for watching and for the kind words! I’m glad I was able to help and best of luck in your search. I hope you find one that makes you really happy. Hope you check back in if you do.

[@kylebucy9541]

Those timing belt stickers can be purchased online.. Don't get fooled.. Seller should have a receipt from a repair shop.. If not run away..

[@quietstorm1595]

Good information. Thanks for posting.

[@87_North]

Hey man good pointers. Buying one this week and this helped.

[@uknowhim21]

Thank you. Congrats and best of luck! Still enjoying mine with no regrets.

[@m6n15]

This helps a lot. Thank you. I am excited to check this car out.

[@uknowhim21]

Glad I could be of help. Thanks for watching. Good luck!

[@m6n15]

@@uknowhim21 Car has 140K in it and it is still Amazing!! Everything is intact. Accept for the regular wear and tear. They guy seller was impressed that me, a girl went under the car to check the CV. HAHAAH We are picking up the car this week!! Glad I came across your video just in time. Thanks again.

[@uknowhim21]

@@m6n15 that’s awesome! Glad I could help and good choice going with it. Hope you love it and have a ton of fun!

[@jacynjames]

Thank you! great video

[@klaybiggins4040]

I’m looking at one at dealer… got under yesterday when dealer closed. Oil leakage beneath it. Seems like a bit of rust but not too excessive.

[@ericanderson4997]

Another common problem is the secondary air injection system going bad and throwing check engine light among other lights. 2k to fix “properly” or $400 for a bypass kit from Hewitt design

[@itzjdub282]

Great pointers

[@ericanderson4997]

I just want to add, the diff locking can be finicky. If it doesn’t lock immediately that doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t. Mine usually locks/light stops flashing after moving forward a couple feet Edit: and service that differential it’s probably never been done!

[@atroche1978]

I bought my '08 about 3 years ago. Stock wheels looked like shit! I picked up some 4runner TRD gunmetal wheels. Installed Bilstein hd shocks all around, 2 inch front spacers, and adjusted the rear air bags. Looks great now. Had the dealer do the belt and thermostat. Aside from regular oil changes, it's been an extremely reliable vehicle. Smooth 4.7l V8. Would recommend it to anyone.

[@uknowhim21]

Sounds like you did a great job. Would agree with the recommendation.

[@thegentlemansmith5411]

How much did they charge for the belt ?

[@sebastianluna1412]

What was your total costs? From buying until you finished your build?

[@bystander_1]

Hi Bert, how much did it cost you to do the belt and thermostat?

[@ramundo07]

Would an ‘08 GX with over 277,000 miles be worth buying?Service history ends in 2020 more of less.

[@franklinsaltchuck2455]

A lot of people just kept the money for the cracked dash recall and didn't get the dash fixed

[@wfwill205]

Work on your transitions a bit to build the channel, subscribed and looking forward to upgrades. Dutchess county NY looking to buy a gx soon.

[@uknowhim21]

Thanks for watching and for the advice! More things to come for sure. A lot on order waiting to come in.

[@mr.singlendon1501]

??

[@sebastianromero420]

I’m from Dutchess County NY as well. There isn’t anywhere to wheel around though. Did you pick up a gx?

[@Trial-Time-Tammy]

Wondering if you know what the steering wheel is like under the leather? If you take the leather off all together is it just a nice hard plastic that you could leave that way to drive? My steering wheel leather is all peeling.

[@justinclark6586]

Frankly, the timing belt job on these vehicles is not all that difficult. It takes time, but anyone comfortable (very comfortable) with doing a brake job could do it if they are willing take the weekend to do it. $400ish for Toyota/aisin parts and you’re good to go. I’ve done it once on mine and will be doing it again in about 15k miles. I’d done it on my old Tacoma with a 3.4l several times and it’s a very similar job. This is basically a fancy Tacoma with two extra cylinders and air springs in the back. As for crappy radiators...mine is an 08 so it is basically 13 years old with 180k on it and it’s not leaking yet. Most BMWs let go after about 6-8yrs. That said, I will be dropping a new one in soon just as PM to keep me off the side of the road.

[@uknowhim21]

All good points! I think we all know these things are beasts and super reliable. After all, it is a Toyota. But obviously for someone looking to buy one, that maybe doesn't do a ton of research on the forums before hand, I felt like I wanted to hit the main costlier things that "could" go wrong, which should be looked at, when buying one. Negotiation points if anything.

[@treedeblue]

@ Justin Clark Hey guy sounds like your a great DYIer you should make a video on the timing belt job

[@nicholash8021]

Just bought my 2nd 2006 GX 470 today! Bought my first back in 2006. It has 155K miles on it and looks like new inside and out. The lady I bought it from was the original owner and garaged it and drove it like a baby. The engine is as smooth as I remember it new. While they say the timing belt should be replaced every 90K miles, I see no sign of issues and maybe because it was driven softly will last longer. I've changed several belts before and rebuilt engines (starting a rebuild of my 1996 Mustang SVT Cobra 4.6 V8 this weekend... ). From your experience, what are the symptoms you're feeling when the timing belt gets worn on the GX470? Just the usual backfiring/rough idle/sputtering?

[@justinclark6586]

@@nicholash8021 Timing belts generally don’t “wear” in any way that affects performance. They exhibit very little stretch over their lives. If replaced anywhere near their recommended intervals, it almost feels like a pointless job because there is essentially no difference in engine performance and the belts usually look fine, but that’s kind of the point - to prevent any change. They go from working fine to catastrophic failure if you don’t replace them. I suspect that the recommended service interval is intended provides a health safety factor. The belts could probably go closer to 200k before failing, but I cannot verify that theory and don’t plan to test it 😁. My GX is pushing 200k miles now and just got back from a 5000 mile trip to Yellowstone pulling a 6500# trailer in 100+ degree temps and runs she as smooth as day 1. I have recently replaced all the idlers, belts, hoses, and the radiator, and I replaced the transmission fluid with Amsoil, but that’s just basic maintenance. These things are built well and built to last.

[@jjuarez83]

Thanks for the info. Looking at a GX470 or 4Runner. The navigation system tip is a good one, wonder what it would cost to fix/replace.

[@uknowhim21]

Definitely a costly repair if it craps out. Although there are replacements out there that can be swapped in. But so far so good at 170k miles.

[@Moondoggy1941]

My only issue with my 2007 GX 470 with 195k miles is the gas mileage, it is a thirsty pirate, ripping me off every time at the gas station. 12 MPG. It's like the old big V8 from the 70's you punch them and you can watch the gas gauge go down.

[@atroche1978]

Gas was great the last 2 years. It's shot up big time though. So yeah, I think most GX owners will agree. But, when it comes to this vehicle, that's almost the only legit complaint.

[@uknowhim21]

Yah I’m averaging about 12 mostly city. But it’s something I expected. So can’t be to mad about it

[@franklinsaltchuck2455]

Biden's handlers wants to get rid of fossil fuels

[@nate678]

Agree! My foots always in it. However I took a trip with cruise set at 60 and got 20 mpg.

[@Moondoggy1941]

@@nate678 Sounds good I may take a 3 state tour with it. That is encouraging.

[@andrewblocher9110]

Get you some 18” TRD beadlock rims. Look great on any color aggressive tires are optional.

[@samuelvargas5827]

Awesome I'm about to buy a 2006 gx 470 with 195,000 timing belt was done at about 30,000 ago

[@uknowhim21]

Nice congrats, enjoy!

[@iscreamcandytv9642]

How is it going? I’m looking at a 2006 one tomorrow. Let me know. What did you pay for it? This one is listed for 9k 203k miles

[@viking3487]

Whats the best year models?

[@TheMindofBruce]

I am trying to message you but I can't. I am thinking of buying a 03 GX 470 with 244k miles, timing belt replaced at 241k, valve cover gaskets done, all fluids flushed, shocks replaced, headlight and tail lights replaced to LED but it seems pricey. they want 12,9 for it. What you think is a fair price? I know the used car markets are insane right now but KBB has it at 7100

[@timhardman4764]

Good quick summary. Nice to see all these things mentioned in one place in less than 10 minutes. I'm currently looking at the late model ('07 to '09) GX470's and late model ('13 to '15) Xterra ProX4. Both have crappy mileage, especially when lifted and with big tires. What is your worst, best and average around town MPG? Fuelly says 15 mpg for the GX and 17mpg for the Xterra...nothing significant there.

[@uknowhim21]

My avg over the last year has been 14.2mpg with an average speed of 28mph as I mostly drive all city. Last week I did a 90 mile drive to upstate NY and had a 16.0mpg at 67mph average. So good mpg won’t be your friend regardless. Go with what you like. I looked at Xterras as well. Just leaned to the GX

[@timhardman4764]

@@uknowhim21 I leaned toward the GX also but I just found a great condition rust free WA registered 2015 Pro4X with 85K miles and all the mods completed that I would have done myself eventually. Bumpers front and back, winch, tires, sliders, skid plates, rear locker in both 2WD and 4WD, 2" lift etc... Most of these rigs after mods all get in the 13 to 17 mpg range which doesn't add up to much of a difference in $$ over the course of a gas tank. Thanks for the replay and I'm subscribed.

[@uknowhim21]

@@timhardman4764 sounds like a great year and spec! Having one modded already is a nice savings of time and money as well. Enjoy it and thank you!

[@sebastianromero420]

@@timhardman4764 you can’t compare a Nissan to a toyota.

[@jrrrj]

highly noted "Its time to get a after market lift kit and tires" 🧠📝

[@thecrocusgrouppropertymana3130]

thanks for this. im confused how to connect spotify to my 09. i got it connected for calls but cant find audio menu to play music.

[@uknowhim21]

You are welcome, thanks for watching! You can't stream music via blue tooth, you can only use it for calls. Instead, you need to connect your phone via the aux input, which is next to the seat warmers. Then hit the aux button, which is by the tape player next to the AM/FM buttons.

[@nicknass2362]

I’ll add the rear ac lines leaking

[@Jason-Jason]

thanks

[@KBradAdams]

I would like to know how to set the FOUR WHEEL DRIVE switch for normal driving?

[@nate678]

It's full time 4 wheel drive. Only option is the center locker, and hi/lo gear

[@KBradAdams]

@@nate678 Thanks I think I finally figured it out. HI during normal driving.

[@KBradAdams]

Curious if it rides loud like at 45 MPH almost feels like it needs to change gears but only at 1.5 RPMS I assume I am just used to driving a corolla instead of a V8. I had check engine lights and others on dash, pulled the battery, drove 2 days and passed emissions no lights since. Code said P0455 EGR Valve I bought one but never had to replace so far so good.

[@nazi.r3birth344]

2003 or 2004 Lexus GX470....Should it recommend to buy for these two years? Thanks for comment back!

[@fcknsick]

There was some updates in 2004, and even more in 2006-08

[@nazi.r3birth344]

@@fcknsick In Cambodia, 2003 and 2004 have many.... 2006up rarely use here. Could you tell me the updates in 2004? Thanks

[@fortis619]

I’m in the market for one most have over 250k miles and go for over 8k is SoCal worth it. ?

[@uknowhim21]

In this market, a rust free one there at that amount sounds reasonable. Just try to find one with a decent service history. If you create an account on Lexus website you can input the vin of the vehicle and if it was serviced at a Lexus dealership, you will see everything that was done. Could be very helpful in your search. That’s what I did. These vehicles can last forever when serviced decently.

[@Laura-ns6ys]

Hi Rob, I'm considering buying a 2009 or 2011 lexus rx 350, would really appreciate your opinion!

[@uknowhim21]

2009 was the last model year of the second generation if I’m not mistaken. So unless you prefer that body style, engine, and interior over the 2011 which was the second year of the third generation where everything was updated and improved, I would go with the 2011. It will have better fuel economy due to the newer engine and transmission and ride nicer I’m sure with the suspension upgrades. Also depends on price between the two, mileage, what you’re looking to use it for, etc. There’s so many variables that depend on your preference. But in general, I would say the 2011 would be the better option. Wikipedia the model for a more detailed comparison between the two.

[@Laura-ns6ys]

@@uknowhim21 Thank you so much! I appreciate you taking the time to answer my question.

[@uknowhim21]

@@Laura-ns6ys you’re welcome. Either way, they are reliable cars like most Lexus/Toyota products. So you can’t go wrong.

[@Laura-ns6ys]

@@uknowhim21 Awesome thanks!

[@true_identity]

Id be oiling that dash up lol

[@uknowhim21]

Haha it hasn't cracked anymore as of yet, but I do keep it lubed as much as possible and I don't park it in the sun. It's just one of those things I will take care of at some point. Hasn't spread to the drivers side yet.

[@The_Touring_Jedi]

Land Cruiser 120 4.0 V6 is way better option. No timinig belt and almost bulletproof engine. Russians swear that 4.0 V6 is legendary. That is why I bought one in Switzerland. Payed 15k but except some minor things this car/off roader is a blast even with 135k miles.

[@RotokEralil]

In a few years when it becomes import legal in the US, I will snag one! (We have a 25 year rule for imports that were not originally available in our market, and the gx470 was our 'luxury' version of the 120 while everyone else got the Prado).

[@shakurmuqtadir828]

Do the engine change under the highway two V8 v6 twin V4 while driving

[@shakurmuqtadir828]

Do the engine change from V8 to V6 to V4 if burning too much gas

[@uknowhim21]

Nope. Always running as a V8

[@odevious8081]

Do they sell with out gps?

[@uknowhim21]

If it has a screen it has gps. They sell them without the screen.

[@ColoradoSolar]

Great video. One thing, I know everybody calls the transfer case a differential. It’s not. I think it would be great, if everybody stopped calling it that. It’s a transfer case, or T-case for short. The “lock”, allows the vehicle to behave with normal four-wheel-drive versus all wheel drive. Thanks for putting the info out there about the GX.

[@Moondoggy1941]

5:26 And boom, my wife hit that button while driving trying to push the mirror control, and now the diff is locked and the light is blinking. Very bad day.

[@Moondoggy1941]

1:54 looks like some bad rust there to the left. Lucky in the southwest we do not get any rust issues. Unless you drive in the ocean.

[@uknowhim21]

Nothing to bad for the northeast to be honest. You southwest folk have it easy haha I will be doing some rust prevention and remediation before the next winter

[@johne5090]

What year is this one?

[@uknowhim21]

2007. There were some changes in 07 and 08 inside and outside which I wanted. Particularly the aux input jack built in from factory next to the heated seat controls.

[@AcquiredCents]

My neighbor told me he'll take $6,000.00, it's his girl's car so I doubt she's tore it up. I'm about to see if i can make a few grand... or maybe KEEP and sell after a year or 2. Thanks for the quick aid. Cheers!

[@uknowhim21]

Buy it now! Haha Congrats and best of luck.

[@DK-zu6tt]

If someone thought that about me, as a woman, they'd be so mistaken. I take my Mitsubishi Outlander GT camping in the high sierra's several times a year, and I thoroughly beat the shit out of it, getting air, taking it places where it's pushing the stock configuration for 4-wheel drive.

[@LegitkawasakiX]

Had one, bought an 09 Tahoe.. I like the Tahoe a lot more.

[@cygnusl.a4180]

Kindly brush up against that like button and take it out for a cup of coffee ,

[@user-os7mv8gc2d]

كم السعر. كم $

[@alabama2uz]

In the US, they can sell from $6k to over $30k, according to miles, condition, and modifications.

[@user-os7mv8gc2d]

@@alabama2uz give me your tellphon number

[@Richard-Reloaded]

Thurl video.

[@rossyeni1618]

The biggest issue with these cars is the rust

[@mikimiki195]

How much does it cost to replace water pump and timing belt

[@uknowhim21]

From what I’ve read, somewhere around $1k-$1,500. Probably depends on location in the country. I’ll find out soon. Need to do mine shortly.

[@mikimiki195]

@@uknowhim21 damn that’s a lot of money 💰

[@uknowhim21]

@@mikimiki195 I think it’s more towards that $1k number if not a bit less. But by me just outside of nyc I assume I’ll be above that.

[@hellohogo]

Problems? People talk about these vehicles like they’re pure unicorn sphincters 😂

[@benjantzen8910]

Bulletproof tanks…beats the heck outta jeeps/GMC trucks/Fords/BMW/Audi SUV’s..better than Mercedes and better than dodge trucks

[@itzjdub282]

That undercarriage looks pretty rusty.

[@ruiwu3604]

Compare gx to sequoia , I like sequoia better , way bigger in and out

[@jordanmercier3616]

I have both, my wife doesn't like the Sequoia, mainly because it's too big. The GX is just more luxurious in almost every sense, the seats are better, the sound systems better, the materials are nicer, the ride qualities better. The sequoias great though, I love it, it's basically a work vehicle for me, I do a lot of towing and long trips.

[@uknowhim21]

As Jordan said, both are great, but I was going for something more upscale, which is why I went with the GX. I did look at both.

[@NorthweSteelheadJunkies]

The LX and GX are built in Japan far superior to the Sequoia

[@MrBubbagump74]

I stay away from cars or trucks with water pump and timing belt changes every certain mileage.

[@bryanbaquita6567]

Stuped how old that car.