A beginners guide to buying a used GX470

[HomersCanyonero]

220k is not super high for the gx470. If all fluids are fresh, then things that would worry me are:

1. Cooling system like radiator leaks, radiator hoses worn out, old cap, old thermostat, old water pump. If never replaced, it’s time to replace.

2. Bushings on suspension components might be shot like uppper and lower control arms both front and rear, sway bars, shocks.

3. Alternator might need replacing if never replaced.

4. CV boots might be leaking if never replaced.

5. Rear air bags might be close to end of road if never replaced.

If these items are taken care of, then 200k more might be possible.

Just my opinion!

 

[JLee]

220k is not super high for the gx470. If all fluids are fresh, then things that would worry me are:

1. Cooling system like radiator leaks, radiator hoses worn out, old cap, old thermostat, old water pump. If never replaced, it’s time to replace.

2. Bushings on suspension components might be shot like uppper and lower control arms both front and rear, sway bars, shocks.

3. Alternator might need replacing if never replaced.

4. CV boots might be leaking if never replaced.

5. Rear air bags might be close to end of road if never replaced.

If these items are taken care of, then 200k more might be possible.

Just my opinion!

I would also replace the starter as preventative maintenance the next time I did the timing belt.

 

[ewillis]

Whelp...after looking at Taco's, Tundra's, 100s, 200s, and a couple non-Yota products, I'm picking up a clean 470 for my DD in about 2 hours! Exclusively Lexus dealer maintained, 2 owners, and garaged. Pics look super clean in and out.

 

[lndshark]

My 2004 just rolled over 222,222. Daily driven 100 miles round-trip. It was a one-owner, exclusively dealer maintained GX...already had the radiator and alternator replaced by the PO, as well as CV axles and TB/WP. I'll be doing some PM maintenance items shortly (fluids, filters, plugs, etc.) this summer and then the fun begins. It will move away from DD status and get a lift, skids, tires, bumper and more. At that time I'll likely replace LCA's and reseal the steering rack (it's seeping) plus fix some minor issues. It runs strong and goes down the road strait. I too looked at 4Runners and Tacomas and they were all above my budget. A well-maintained GX is still a secret substitute for most used Toyota trucks or 4Runners...thanks to Dan, they have obviously caught on but still can be had for less than an older D-Cab Tacoma or V8 4Runner.

 

[PhilipJPhry]

Thought I'd reach out here instead of creating another new thread. Let me know if this doesn't belong.

I'm looking at two different GX470s. Both '05; both around 170k miles; both from rust-free states (i.e. not close to me). However, one is a Sport model (so KDSS), selling for roughly $1500 more. The Sport is sold by a dealer and the Lexus Owners site service history stops at 2011/70k, so I don't have any record of when the timing belt was done. I do know the dash is cracked, so that will have to be replaced out of pocket too.

The non-sport is priced really well, from a private owner who has been very candid about the vehicle condition. It needs a few small things, but has good maintenance records and is overall in good shape with a timing belt done 25k miles ago.

Having never driven a KDSS-equipped GX, I am leaning towards getting the non-sport as I'm not sure it's worth the additional cost (plus potential KDSS maintenance costs). Especially once I factor the cost of a new dashboard and timing belt. However, I am still having a hard time deciding. I only plan on some light offroading and some towing. This will be a 3rd car, so it's not even a daily driver.

 

[Arailt]

I would go for the one with better maintenance history. I don’t have KDSS and I think mine handles great on road.

 

[whereischadjones]

I'm looking at an 05, but it doesn't look like there's EVER been a timing belt service. With 175k, I'm guessing this is a pass?

 

[taco47001]

I'm looking at an 05, but it doesn't look like there's EVER been a timing belt service. With 175k, I'm guessing this is a pass?

You can easily use that to your advantage as a timing belt job at Lexus it approx $1100-$1300. You can easily DIY if you have any mechanical ability at all. It’s not a hard job, rather rime consuming if it’s your first time. You can source parts from Toyota or Lexus for about $400. There are other OE kits out there (Aisin kit on amazon) for sub $200. Don’t pass on it solely for that reason though imo

 

[whereischadjones]

Sounds good, thanks. I just found the 90k service was done, so at least it had that. I guess that means it's due again!

 

[doc8404]

New to the GX platform and am in the market to buy. I found one listing locally for a decent price and clean title but the owner is stating the engine overheated and will need “engine work”

I have not received any further information from owner but will post once I get more questions answered.

I was just curious to know (generally) is this an issue I should stay far from? Or could it be an easy fix. Obviously it’s hard to answer with the limited info I’ve shared but any information will help.

Also if you have any other questions I could ask the owner please let me know!

Thanks!

 

[GrizzlyClint]

New to the GX platform and am in the market to buy. I found one listing locally for a decent price and clean title but the owner is stating the engine overheated and will need “engine work”

I have not received any further information from owner but will post once I get more questions answered.

I was just curious to know (generally) is this an issue I should stay far from? Or could it be an easy fix. Obviously it’s hard to answer with the limited info I’ve shared but any information will help.

Also if you have any other questions I could ask the owner please let me know!

Thanks!

Avoid at all costs.

 

[doc8404]

Avoid at all costs.

 

[doc8404]

Really?

 

[GrizzlyClint]

Really?

There’s others out there. You don’t know what this did to the engine. I’d pass if it was me.

 

[doc8404]

There’s others out there. You don’t know what this did to the engine. I’d pass if it was me.

Thanks man I appreciate it!

 

[GrizzlyClint]

Thanks man I appreciate it!

Sure thing. With something this important I feel you should be able to get the best you can get. It may take some searching but the right GX is out there! I know, I bought two.

 

[McDuff123]

New to the GX platform and am in the market to buy. I found one listing locally for a decent price and clean title but the owner is stating the engine overheated and will need “engine work”

I have not received any further information from owner but will post once I get more questions answered.

I was just curious to know (generally) is this an issue I should stay far from? Or could it be an easy fix. Obviously it’s hard to answer with the limited info I’ve shared but any information will help.

Also if you have any other questions I could ask the owner please let me know!

Thanks!

Run, don’t walk, away from that.
As my Mama always told me, ”don’t borrow trouble”

 

[doc8404]

Run, don’t walk, away from that.
As my Mama always told me, ”don’t borrow trouble”

I appreciate the honest support!!

 

[IanB]

I appreciate the honest support!!

With that limited info, it could be anything from a $15-$6000 fix. Starting a new relationship with a vehicle on these terms is not for everyone.

 

[Rednexus]

If (1) the vehicle is still drivable so you can verify it does not have other non-engine issues and (2) you can quantify the cost for a swap with a good used engine or a rebuilt engine, then negotiate the price accordingly (which should be below the fair market value of a GX with no mechanical issues), it might not be a bad deal. Otherwise, I'd stay away from it as it could be a giant can of worms.