Is there a breakover point for scrapping a GX470?

[kpz1234]

I have just been hit with a diagnosis of multiple needed repairs on my (new to me) GX470.
I bought it knowing it had a bad dash and the infamous peeling white paint. You can add to that the traditional cracked manifold. A trifecta of Toyota screwups.
Now on top of that, I found out it has torn front axle boots, leaking power steering and leaking front/rear transfer case.
We won't discuss the money I have already put into it before this point... so my question is this... is there a point where this GX is better off becoming a donor vehicle?

 

[Timujin]

How many miles on your GX?

 

[kpz1234]

109k

 

[aztoytec]

109k is barely broken in! C/V boots are normal, basically maintenance. More info on the leaks would give you better feed back.

 

[JAGI410]

Whenever a monthly $500+ car payment sounds better than the occasional $500 DIY repair, then it's time.

 

[kpz1234]

109k is barely broken in! C/V boots are normal, basically maintenance. More info on the leaks would give you better feed back.

Quoting the mechanic's notes, "Transfer case leaking from the input seal and the actuator seal on the rear of the case. Power steering rack is leaking from both boots. Both front inner axle boots leaking grease."

 

[kpz1234]

Slightly complicating matters is a 50% chance I could have to move to an emissions state (I'm not in one currently), forcing me to address the cracked exhaust manifold. The possible move was not on my radar when I bought the 470.

 

[Timujin]

If you are paying someone for the repairs I get your position.

If you can swing the repairs yourself those aren’t too bad. Good luck.

 

[Rednexus]

I've replaced all of those things on my GX470 (other than the paint), and have had at least 3 sets of torn CV boots. Plus I've replaced many other things like wheel bearings, new seat covers, brakes, and the non-nav conversion. I got it with 135K on it and the rig has about 202K on it today. Last year we took a 5K mile road trip in it, we have a 2K mile road trip coming up for Spring Break, then it's going to get another 3K mile road trip this summer. So....despite needing routine TLC, it's a solid rig.

Really depends on how much you like the rig. If it's just a 20-year old SUV and basic transportation that you aren't emotionally attached to, then feel free to move on. If you truly enjoy the rig and don't mind fixing things as they come up (especially if you can DIY some or all of it), a GX470 is IMO Toyota's best all-around SUV and worth keeping.

 

[HomersCanyonero]

if you are not geeking about off-roading the GX470, then sell it and get a super efficient EV or hybrid that meets your needs

 

[Hardazclay]

My 2 cents is that she's worth fixing. At 109k she has so much life left. Although, unless you're willing to do most of the maintenance yourself, I dont think owning a 470 makes a lot of financial sence. It sucks all those problem are occurring at once but I think you could defer some of it and get to then later if money is an issue.

 

[moondoggy]

If you want to save money on parts look into Bell Lexus out of Scottsdale Az. they ship for free over a hundred dollars, so shipping really isn't a concern, I saved at least 50% on parts from my local Lexus dealer offering 5% and free Totsie Roll. I purchased mine on July 4 maybe that is there biggest sale day, the parts website leaves a lot to desire, other dealers might be better.

 

[Jstawgn]

Owning old vehicles in US does not make sense if you don't have the time and ability to service it yourself. Labor is extremely expensive. Reason many people get new car with warranty.

Rust is another issue if you live in ruso prone areas.

It makes absolute sense if you can work on it yourself. Tech are much simpler and most repair technique are known already.

 

[blackohio]

I've put about 6K into maintenance on an 03 w/ 260K miles in the last 2 years.
LCA, UCA, Power Steering Rack, Timing Belt, H20 Pump, Brakes, 2 front Axles, Tie Rods.
Then I've also spent about 12K in mods as well, and the GX is my least favorite of my recently owned SUV's.

But I still like it and trust it so...