Looking to buy my first GX470 - Too Rusty?

[t0mar]

Hi all - I am a GX470 newb coming over from the world of 4Runner. I am looking at a 2006 GX470 with 209,000KMS that has a strong maintenance record. I am however wondering if anyone can provide any insight on the rust situation. To me, it seems quite typical surface rust, and I didn’t see/feel anything concerning, however I’m not incredibly familiar with this vehicle and would love some insight from others who have experience.

It’s priced at CAD19,000.

 

[Jstawgn]

Looks pretty good for 20 years old vehicle in the north. Probably scares people in California but those are much better than most I seen in Ohio.

Still need to go thru in closer detail. The front crossmember and rear cross member are usually bad and also right front where AC drains is. Need to poke with hammer and even screwdriver to make sure nothing rust through.

 

[t0mar]

Looks pretty good for 20 years old vehicle in the north. Probably scares people in California but those are much better than most I seen in Ohio.

Still need to go thru in closer detail. The front crossmember and rear cross member are usually bad and also right front where AC drains is. Need to poke with hammer and even screwdriver to make sure nothing rust through.

I did poke at it with a screwdriver and hammer and it felt solid - but I will check around the AC drains and cross members more closely

 

[Rednexus]

It's not terrible but not great either. A bit worse than mine was. I'd expect to break a fair number of bolts when working on it, so you'll need to be set up to address that if you are going to DIY things (torch and probably a welder). You'll also need to get the rust treated ASAP (Fluid Film or Woolwax) to keep it from getting worse.

Is that a GX from eastern Canada originally? I agree that it's not bad for a Midwestern/eastern rig, but I would imagine you'll have less-rusty examples for sale in your local area. I agree with checking the rear cross member and front framerails under the AC drip lines as well. For the AC drip line area you might want to put an inspection camera inside the frame. The frame is two sections welded together and it will rust from the inside out.

 

[JAGI410]

New exhaust and front brake calipers! Somebody cared for that one. Doesn't look too bad at all.

 

[swissarmyknife]

Agree, rust isn't too bad, though if you do buy it you will need to go after it by wire brushing or if you can bring it to a shop that can sand blast it, then sealing it with a rust inhibitor and good exterior paint. The issue is that once the protective paint is compromised surface rust will eventually bite through it all

 

[t0mar]

I appreciate all the feedback! It's always been local in western Canada, but they throw salt around in the lower mainland and It does cause damage. It is a pain. I will go check it out again when I have a chance, it's at a Nissan dealer. I want to get into a GX, but don't want a headache, or something I need to immediately invest a lot of money into in year one.

 

[JAGI410]

When shopping for a GX, use the My Lexus site to input VIN numbers to get service history, and when you find one you're getting more serious about, get a $5 Vinfax to get more details. It's worth it to see what's already been done. Buying 20 year old cars will always require work of some sort, so make sure you budget accordingly. But if you can find a well maintained one, you'd be at a better starting point.