Any previous GX470 owners? Considering GX460... and cross-shopping.

[VirginiaCruiser]

Dirty air filter? Assuming it's a Lexus certified, how did they miss that?! I guess the filter is behind the glovebox light LOL

"161-POINT INSPECTION
Each L/Certified by Lexus vehicle undergoes a comprehensive inspection including: engine, exterior, interior, electronics, safety devices, undercarriage and a road test. During the inspection process, we focus on the details. Specially trained technicians inspect every aspect of the pre-owned vehicle, right down to the first aid kit, spare tire and glovebox light."

It was the engine air filter not the cabin, Easily fixed with a shop vac.

I'm not sure how they missed it, the truck is pretty clean. It was filled with broken leaves and dust. I guess they assumed it was good, its not usual to have a dirty air filter like I had.

 

[SativaSensi]

Hi All,

Is this still relevant? I’m looking to get into a reliable Toyota/Lexus SUV or truck for my family of 4 and a dog.
Long story short. I live off grid in Santa Cruz mountains with my family trying to live a low cost lifestyle in the Bay Area California. I needed an affordable 4x4 SUV for the family when my first child was born 2 years ago. I was looking at Land cruisers and 4runners, but didn’t have the 10-15k to spend on them. Financing is not an option for me.

So I bought a 2003 20th Anniversary Mitsubishi Montero for 5k in 2019. In 2 years I have spent around 15k in maintenance and repairs. Transmission replaced once in the 2nd month of ownership and broke again over the weekend on our family trip to Tahoe. I’m so frustrated and so over it. I’m going to fix it sell it and get a Toyota/Lexus because they are known for their reliability. I really need the next vehicle I purchase to last me at least 10 years with no headaches.

Should I look for a 460 or 470? Or get a double cab Tacoma or Tundra for the family? My only concern with the truck is will the Bulldog with comfortably inside with the family of 4? So that’s why I’m leading towards an SUV.

How much are they going for in the market right now? Are they both still proven to be reliable?

I haven’t been able to do research yet on anything as the montero just broke down over the weekend and I’m still looking around for the lowest cost option to fix it. I do know my next car is a Toyota/Lexus or Honda. Thank you

 

[r2m]

If you looking SUV, the Lexus will probably be more affordable in matching years because EVERYBODY knows and wants 4Runners, but people are just discovering that the GX's are just as capable as 4R's. The GX's are also usually better kept because they're initially more expensive, (read: appreciated) so people don't abuse them like they will a 4R. Also, it's usually the soccer Mom's that drive them, so lower miles and no off road abuse. When I purchased mine, it was a Mom's car with very low miles and still had the protective clear plastic over the door sills. Consider trim levels in the price. Take a look at the "Manual" sticky post on the home GX460 page. There will be a list of all the trim levels and what years they were available.

GX460/GX470, potato's/patato's... They're both great rigs. You'll likely to find a 470 cheaper and a 460 with less miles.
The pick is yours and what the budget can handle.

 

[GrizzlyClint]

Hi All,

Is this still relevant? I’m looking to get into a reliable Toyota/Lexus SUV or truck for my family of 4 and a dog.
Long story short. I live off grid in Santa Cruz mountains with my family trying to live a low cost lifestyle in the Bay Area California. I needed an affordable 4x4 SUV for the family when my first child was born 2 years ago. I was looking at Land cruisers and 4runners, but didn’t have the 10-15k to spend on them. Financing is not an option for me.

So I bought a 2003 20th Anniversary Mitsubishi Montero for 5k in 2019. In 2 years I have spent around 15k in maintenance and repairs. Transmission replaced once in the 2nd month of ownership and broke again over the weekend on our family trip to Tahoe. I’m so frustrated and so over it. I’m going to fix it sell it and get a Toyota/Lexus because they are known for their reliability. I really need the next vehicle I purchase to last me at least 10 years with no headaches.

Should I look for a 460 or 470? Or get a double cab Tacoma or Tundra for the family? My only concern with the truck is will the Bulldog with comfortably inside with the family of 4? So that’s why I’m leading towards an SUV.

How much are they going for in the market right now? Are they both still proven to be reliable?

I haven’t been able to do research yet on anything as the montero just broke down over the weekend and I’m still looking around for the lowest cost option to fix it. I do know my next car is a Toyota/Lexus or Honda. Thank you

I own both a 470 and 460 and they are both fantastic in different ways. Both are superbly reliable and capable off-roaders. I wouldn’t hesitate to buy either (and I didn’t!). It should come down to maintenance history, condition and your personal preference on aesthetics / interior. I will say the 460 has ventilated seats which is nice in a hot climate. Being in Texas I know hot and they work pretty well.

The 470 is less expensive but harder to find in excellent low mileage shape for a reasonable price. Low mileage 470’s are going for ridiculous money right now. I’d recommend grabbing a lower mileage 2010-2013 460 instead assuming maintenance history and condition are good.

I will say my 178k mile 470 drives and feels brand new. It’s just the front leather seats that are indicative of its age.

 

[Kid]

Shop for both , sometimes you'll find a cheap one on CL because they are unfamiliar with their value .
For instance , 6 months ago , I purchased a 2013 luxury 460 with 64K miles on it for 24K
2 weeks ago I saw a 2006 470 with 110K miles for $14K , I thought that was a good deal , maybe I am wrong .
Takes times , eye CL a lot .
From the looks of what you've written , you'd rather buy sooner than later .
Consider an older Sequoia with the 470 , I have 2 friends that buy them with 200K miles and keep them for a long time

 

[Banandalorian]

Hi All,

Is this still relevant? I’m looking to get into a reliable Toyota/Lexus SUV or truck for my family of 4 and a dog.
Long story short. I live off grid in Santa Cruz mountains with my family trying to live a low cost lifestyle in the Bay Area California. I needed an affordable 4x4 SUV for the family when my first child was born 2 years ago. I was looking at Land cruisers and 4runners, but didn’t have the 10-15k to spend on them. Financing is not an option for me.

So I bought a 2003 20th Anniversary Mitsubishi Montero for 5k in 2019. In 2 years I have spent around 15k in maintenance and repairs. Transmission replaced once in the 2nd month of ownership and broke again over the weekend on our family trip to Tahoe. I’m so frustrated and so over it. I’m going to fix it sell it and get a Toyota/Lexus because they are known for their reliability. I really need the next vehicle I purchase to last me at least 10 years with no headaches.

Should I look for a 460 or 470? Or get a double cab Tacoma or Tundra for the family? My only concern with the truck is will the Bulldog with comfortably inside with the family of 4? So that’s why I’m leading towards an SUV.

How much are they going for in the market right now? Are they both still proven to be reliable?

I haven’t been able to do research yet on anything as the montero just broke down over the weekend and I’m still looking around for the lowest cost option to fix it. I do know my next car is a Toyota/Lexus or Honda. Thank you

Unfortunately, the market for used 4WD trucks and SUVs (and most every vehicle) is going through quite the bubble right now . I bought a used GX460 last August and could sell it for a profit right now. Anything from Toyota or Lexus is going to be solid overall so long as it was well maintained by previous owners, but if you're looking on a fairly tight budget you will be in high mileage examples for any of your options.
If you have a family of 4 and a dog, the Tacoma is probably going to be too small. A buddy of mine just had twins and his 2017 Tacoma double cab isn't big enough to fit both carseats and both adults comfortably/easily.

 

[SativaSensi]

Unfortunately, the market for used 4WD trucks and SUVs (and most every vehicle) is going through quite the bubble right now . I bought a used GX460 last August and could sell it for a profit right now. Anything from Toyota or Lexus is going to be solid overall so long as it was well maintained by previous owners, but if you're looking on a fairly tight budget you will be in high mileage examples for any of your options.
If you have a family of 4 and a dog, the Tacoma is probably going to be too small. A buddy of mine just had twins and his 2017 Tacoma double cab isn't big enough to fit both carseats and both adults comfortably/easily.

Thank you everyone for your responses. It seems I’ll be in the market for a Lx470 or Gx470 because of my budget of 10-12k.
LX470 or GX470 for a family of 4. Wife and 2kids 3yo and 1yo and 50lb dog. After I sell my current SUV 03 Montero along with a couple other toys, my budget will be 10-12k.
I still have yet to test drive either of the rigs or see them up close in person. So I’m really anxious to see the size and driving experience. I live off the grid in the mountains and my terrain is very steep and hilly with twisty backroads. Very muddy and wet winters on our dirt roads. So that’s one factor to keep in mind. I read the GX is more nimble than the LX, but not sure if it will be tight inside coming from a montero. I also would like the wife to enjoy and feel safe and enjoy driving it. She didn’t really care for driving the Montero. So not sure if she would like the LX470 or GX470. I can’t wait to check them out.

Can I get a super reliable LX470 or GX470 for my family in the 10-12k budget? I will wait for the right one I just need the next rig to not give me anymore headaches or breakdowns and last at least 10years. Thanks everyone!

 

[r2m]

If you're looking at the LX470, you may want to also consider the Landcruiser from 1998 through 2007.
They are EXACTLY the same as the LX470, but the LX has more wood, leather, front grill and creature comforts,. In Toyota language, they are referred to as the 100 Series.
But exactly same drive train, most body panels including doors, etc. It's like the GX's are here in the U.S. compared to the Toyota Prado to the rest of the world, same 120/150 Series of Toyota's.
If you're lucky enough to find a 1998 through 2001 (or 2002??) you can even get the factory rear differential e-locker! Both my wife's 1998 Landcruisers and my 1998 LC had the factory rear e-locker. I can't remember when, but after either 2001 or 2002 you couldn't get the rear e-locker any longer on the 100 Series.

 

[TLar25]

You could probably find a clean 4th generation 4Runner with the V8 in that price range. A limited trim model will be very similar to a GX470, although you won't have the 3rd row if that's something you need (it's pretty rare at least). The dog would probably enjoy the roll down tailgate window though.

*Update*
A quick craiglist search in the area pulls up a couple in your price range.

2003 Toyota 4Runner LTD - cars & trucks - by owner - vehicle...

Selling 2005 Toyota 4Runner 4 WHEEL DRIVE.No any mechanical issues.Tires ,brakes are new.Clean title in hand.Runs and drives amazing.Smog check completed.

sfbay.craigslist.org

2003 Lexus GX470 4WD Original Owner - cars & trucks - by owner -...

2003 GX470 with 168,682 miles for sale. Well maintained, dependable, and super confortable SUV. - 4.7 liter 235HP four cam 32-valve V8 engine - Full-time 4WD w/torsen limited slip center...

sfbay.craigslist.org

 

[SativaSensi]

If you're looking at the LX470, you may want to also consider the Landcruiser from 1998 through 2007.
They are EXACTLY the same as the LX470, but the LX has more wood, leather, front grill and creature comforts,. In Toyota language, they are referred to as the 100 Series.
But exactly same drive train, most body panels including doors, etc. It's like the GX's are here in the U.S. compared to the Toyota Prado to the rest of the world, same 120/150 Series of Toyota's.
If you're lucky enough to find a 1998 through 2001 (or 2002??) you can even get the factory rear differential e-locker! Both my wife's 1998 Landcruisers and my 1998 LC had the factory rear e-locker. I can't remember when, but after either 2001 or 2002 you couldn't get the rear e-locker any longer on the 100 Series.

You could probably find a clean 4th generation 4Runner with the V8 in that price range. A limited trim model will be very similar to a GX470, although you won't have the 3rd row if that's something you need (it's pretty rare at least). The dog would probably enjoy the roll down tailgate window though.

*Update*
A quick craiglist search in the area pulls up a couple in your price range.

2003 Toyota 4Runner LTD - cars & trucks - by owner - vehicle...

Selling 2005 Toyota 4Runner 4 WHEEL DRIVE.No any mechanical issues.Tires ,brakes are new.Clean title in hand.Runs and drives amazing.Smog check completed.

sfbay.craigslist.org

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/d/fremont-2003-lexus-gx470-4wd-original/7329100781.html[

http://

Wow. I wish I had the cash on hand. I would love to scoop up the GX for $8,800. Hopefully I can find a low mileage one like that in that price range when I’m ready.

 

[Acrad]

Here are the current average price trends:

GX 460

Lexus GX Price Trends and Pricing Insights

Track Lexus GX price trends and get real-time, industry leading Lexus GX pricing insights.

www.cargurus.com

GX 470

Used Car Price Trends - CarGurus Pricing Index

Stay on top of used car price trends and get real-time industry-leading market insights.

www.cargurus.com

Land Cruiser

Toyota Land Cruiser Price Trends and Pricing Insights

Track Toyota Land Cruiser price trends and get real-time, industry leading Toyota Land Cruiser pricing insights.

www.cargurus.com

LX 470

Used Car Price Trends - CarGurus Pricing Index

Stay on top of used car price trends and get real-time industry-leading market insights.

www.cargurus.com

4Runner

Toyota 4Runner Price Trends and Pricing Insights

Track Toyota 4Runner price trends and get real-time, industry leading Toyota 4Runner pricing insights.

www.cargurus.com

 

[Rednexus]

Hi All,

Is this still relevant? I’m looking to get into a reliable Toyota/Lexus SUV or truck for my family of 4 and a dog.
Long story short. I live off grid in Santa Cruz mountains with my family trying to live a low cost lifestyle in the Bay Area California. I needed an affordable 4x4 SUV for the family when my first child was born 2 years ago. I was looking at Land cruisers and 4runners, but didn’t have the 10-15k to spend on them. Financing is not an option for me.

So I bought a 2003 20th Anniversary Mitsubishi Montero for 5k in 2019. In 2 years I have spent around 15k in maintenance and repairs. Transmission replaced once in the 2nd month of ownership and broke again over the weekend on our family trip to Tahoe. I’m so frustrated and so over it. I’m going to fix it sell it and get a Toyota/Lexus because they are known for their reliability. I really need the next vehicle I purchase to last me at least 10 years with no headaches.

Should I look for a 460 or 470? Or get a double cab Tacoma or Tundra for the family? My only concern with the truck is will the Bulldog with comfortably inside with the family of 4? So that’s why I’m leading towards an SUV.

How much are they going for in the market right now? Are they both still proven to be reliable?

I haven’t been able to do research yet on anything as the montero just broke down over the weekend and I’m still looking around for the lowest cost option to fix it. I do know my next car is a Toyota/Lexus or Honda. Thank you

A few thoughts:

1. The 470 or V8 4Runners a few folks mentioned are great budget family 4x4s, with the following exceptions: 1) The timing belt needs to be replaced every 100k, and this is job usually costs north of $1K for a shop to do, so make sure you get one where the belt was recently done; 2) nearly all of the 4.7 V8s end up having the exhaust manifolds crack, leading to a annoying exhaust leak that can't be repaired without replacing the manifolds and cats (easily $2K+ job); and 3) when the starter goes out on a 4.7 V8, it is located beneath the intake manifold and is an expensive repair based on labor (probably $1K+). So, you WILL need all three of those jobs at some point in a 10-year ownership cycle, and unless you have good DIY skills, the total repair cost can easily be $4K+. I have personally already addressed issues 2) and 3) in my GX, as a DIYer (the timing belt was done just before purchase), but both jobs are hard and should not be attempted unless you have a lot of DIY auto repair experience.

2. If you want a true midsize 4x4 SUV but want to skip issues 1) - 3), get a 2003-2009 4Runner, but with a 4.0 V6 instead of a 4.7 V8. They use a timing chain, don't have the exhaust manifold cracking issue as bad as the V8, and the starter is located outside of the engine. However, it is a less powerful, less refined engine.

3. Being that you are on a strict budget and need a capable family vehicle, I'd actually recommend a 2013+ Subaru Outback instead of a GX or 4Runner, with the newer FB25 engine. You should be able to get one easily in that price range, they are very capable on muddy/snowy roads with good tires, and have plenty of family room. Fuel economy is much improved (ours will hit 30+ on the highway when driven right), they have few major issues, and are easy to work as a DIY or at a shop when something goes wrong. However, they are much less refined/quiet/comfortable compared to a GX, but they will cost much less to purchase, operate, and maintain over a 10-year lifecycle (fuel cost will be around 40% cheaper than a GX, tires are cheaper, etc). You cannot beat an Outback for a capable everything family vehicle on a budget.

 

[jdevtac]

A few thoughts:

1. The 470 or V8 4Runners a few folks mentioned are great budget family 4x4s, with the following exceptions: 1) The timing belt needs to be replaced every 100k, and this is job usually costs north of $1K for a shop to do, so make sure you get one where the belt was recently done; 2) nearly all of the 4.7 V8s end up having the exhaust manifolds crack, leading to a annoying exhaust leak that can't be repaired without replacing the manifolds and cats (easily $2K+ job); and 3) when the starter goes out on a 4.7 V8, it is located beneath the intake manifold and is an expensive repair based on labor (probably $1K+). So, you WILL need all three of those jobs at some point in a 10-year ownership cycle, and unless you have good DIY skills, the total repair cost can easily be $4K+. I have personally already addressed issues 2) and 3) in my GX, as a DIYer (the timing belt was done just before purchase), but both jobs are hard and should not be attempted unless you have a lot of DIY auto repair experience.

2. If you want a true midsize 4x4 SUV but want to skip issues 1) - 3), get a 2003-2009 4Runner, but with a 4.0 V6 instead of a 4.7 V8. They use a timing chain, don't have the exhaust manifold cracking issue as bad as the V8, and the starter is located outside of the engine. However, it is a less powerful, less refined engine.

3. Being that you are on a strict budget and need a capable family vehicle, I'd actually recommend a 2013+ Subaru Outback instead of a GX or 4Runner, with the newer FB25 engine. You should be able to get one easily in that price range, they are very capable on muddy/snowy roads with good tires, and have plenty of family room. Fuel economy is much improved (ours will hit 30+ on the highway when driven right), they have few major issues, and are easy to work as a DIY or at a shop when something goes wrong. However, they are much less refined/quiet/comfortable compared to a GX, but they will cost much less to purchase, operate, and maintain over a 10-year lifecycle (fuel cost will be around 40% cheaper than a GX, tires are cheaper, etc). You cannot beat an Outback for a capable everything family vehicle on a budget.

I would only add that i would not opt for an early 4th gen (03-05) with a v6. Those are prone to head gasket failure just like the 4.0s in early 2nd gen Tacomas.

 

[TLar25]

I would only add that i would not opt for an early 4th gen (03-05) with a v6. Those are prone to head gasket failure just like the 4.0s in early 2nd gen Tacomas.

Yup, early production date 06's as well.

 

[Acrad]

It seems the some 2011-2014 Subarus had significant oil consumption issues. I guess you luck out if one doesn't have it. I had a '02 Maxima with VQ35DE which were known to use oil at higher miles but I lucked out with mine and didn't.

Subaru settles in oil consumption lawsuit

Subaru has agreed to settle in the oil consumption lawsuit filed against them in 2014. What will Forester, Outback and Crosstrek owners get in return?

www.torquenews.com

 

[Acrad]

I guess we will see in years ahead how well the 8.2 rear diff holds up to abuse as more 460s go off-road. That being said... I do seem to see a noticeable number of 8.0 diffs in GX 470s on GXOR detonated.


..... perhaps owner's sending it off-road?

 

[Rednexus]

It seems the some 2011-2014 Subarus had significant oil consumption issues. I guess you luck out if one doesn't have it. I had a '02 Maxima with VQ35DE which were known to use oil at higher miles but I lucked out with mine and didn't.

Subaru settles in oil consumption lawsuit

Subaru has agreed to settle in the oil consumption lawsuit filed against them in 2014. What will Forester, Outback and Crosstrek owners get in return?

www.torquenews.com

Our 2014 has 95K on it and has never burned oil (we bought it new). Most of the oil consumption issues were in the early FB25's that went in the Forester and the FB20's in the Impreza. By the time the engine made it to the Outback in 2013, the issue was pretty much resolved. Our FB25 has been flawless and is a better motor than the EJ25 it replaced.

Another option on the Subaru side would be a 3.6R Outback....the engine is nearly as bulletproof as a Toyota motor and it comes with the 5EAT automatic instead of a CVT, so it would be a more refined setup. It would also help with the power issues....despite our Outback being the most practical vehicle from our family fleet it is my least favorite to drive, as the 170 HP and CVT make it somewhat anemic in the power department.

 

[BigSwede]

I guess we will see in years ahead how well the 8.2 rear diff holds up to abuse as more 460s go off-road. That being said... I do seem to see a noticeable number of 8.0 diffs in GX 470s on GXOR detonated.


..... perhaps owner's sending it off-road?

I have a 2010 FJ Cruiser with the 8,2 rear... I've wheeled it fairly aggressively in Moab and such with no problems. Only one data point, but there you have it. I purposely bought a 2010+ for the beefier rear end, amongst other things.