Best older GX models for overlanding? (1 Viewer)

[gotech06]

I've seen quite a few '08 models with awesome build outs and was wondering if there was a reason for that? There are a lot of high mileage models from '03-'05 that I could pick up for around $5K but would prefer to spend a little more to avoid major issues down the road. Any tips or resources are very much appreciated!

 

[captainva]

Basically all of them are the same save for a few differences. 03 has a trans dipstick and 03-04 take regular gas. In 05-09 the engines got VVT and started requiring premium gas. 05 or 06 they upped the towing capacity and 07-09 have a newer entertainment system and trim. Also there were a few TSBs for a front diff mount that was revised to make it stronger in 06(?) and the driveshaft was revised in late 08 (some 08's got the new part some didn't) that addressed the clunk that can happen when stopping. There may be a few other minor changes but overall the nav update is significantly better (if you want a nav screen) and the engine are the 2 main things. You can't go wrong with any model year really.

 

[gotech06]

Basically all of them are the same save for a few differences. 03 has a trans dipstick and 03-04 take regular gas. In 05-09 the engines got VVT and started requiring premium gas. 05 or 06 they upped the towing capacity and 07-09 have a newer entertainment system and trim. Also there were a few TSBs for a front diff mount that was revised to make it stronger in 06(?) and the driveshaft was revised in late 08 (some 08's got the new part some didn't) that addressed the clunk that can happen when stopping. There may be a few other minor changes but overall the nav update is significantly better (if you want a nav screen) and the engine are the 2 main things. You can't go wrong with any model year really.

Any particular things to look for in an '08? i.e. if the Timing Belt has been replaced, etc.

 

[captainva]

All engines are interference with or without VVT so timing belt and water pump in any year every 10 years of 90k. Other than that, check for transfer case leaks, make sure the center diff lock works, SAIS system (for emissions in the later years) will also go out at some point but you can get a bypass kit, and the front brake calipers tend to stick. Most people upgrade to the GX460 calipers and that fixes the issue. These are very reliable overall and there are no major gotcha kind of repairs.