What year of LX 570 to avoid?
Avoid the earliest LX 570 years (2008–2010) if you want fewer repair headaches; newer years (2013–2021) generally offer better reliability, though maintenance costs stay high.
Overview: reliability by model year
The Lexus LX 570 is renowned for luxury and off-road capability, but reliability and ownership costs vary by year. The earliest models carry the highest likelihood of expensive repairs, especially around the air suspension and electronics. The mid-cycle refresh in 2013 brought updated components and improved reliability, while the final years before the model’s transition to the new LX platform in 2022 generally offer the best balance of features and durability—though you should still expect premium maintenance costs for a full-size luxury SUV.
Common issues to watch for
These patterns reflect owner reports and recalls and can help guide pre-purchase inspections and maintenance planning.
- Air suspension and ride-height systems: early years (roughly 2008–2012) are most prone to compressor failures, leaking air springs, and sensor faults, which can be costly to repair or replace.
- Electrical and ECU/cluster problems: intermittent warning lights, faulty instrumentation, and infotainment glitches are more frequently reported on older models.
- Transmission behavior: some early LX 570s exhibit rough shifting or hesitations as mileage increases; this tends to improve in later updates and with proper maintenance.
- Power steering and cooling components: leaks or hose failures and cooling system wear can be more common on higher-mileage examples.
- Rust and undercarriage wear: heavier vehicles with off-road use may show rust or corrosion in susceptible areas, especially in older, high-mileage units.
Aside from mechanical reliability, buyers should weigh the total cost of ownership, which includes premium parts, tires, and labor, and plan for occasional major repairs.
Model-year recommendations
Best years to buy
For a balance of modern features, improved reliability, and fewer known issues, consider LX 570 models from the 2013–2021 period. Within this span, later years tend to benefit from incremental refinements and ongoing service campaigns, though they still command premium maintenance costs.
- 2013–2016: The mid-cycle refresh introduced updated suspension, drivetrain refinements, and electronics that improve reliability relative to the earliest years.
- 2017–2021: These later models benefit from the ongoing durability improvements and generally present fewer chronic failures, with features aligned to contemporary luxury standards.
When shopping, aim for well-documented service history, a clean pre-delivery inspection record, and a vehicle with current recalls addressed by a Lexus dealer.
Years to avoid (generally more problematic)
To minimize risk of expensive repairs, be cautious with the oldest LX 570s and with units showing multiple known trouble spots without documented fixes.
- 2008–2010: The earliest production years carry the highest risk of air suspension, electrical, and some drivetrain issues, and they often demand higher maintenance costs.
- 2011–2012: Reliability begins to improve, but these years still show more frequent reports of suspension and electronics problems compared with the later refresh.
Individual vehicles vary, and a carefully inspected, well-maintained example from any year can be a sensible purchase. However, the general consensus is to approach the 2008–2012 range with heightened scrutiny and to prioritize 2013 onward when possible.
Buying tips and pre-purchase checks
Before committing to a used LX 570, use these checks to detect the most common issues and avoid surprise repair bills.
- Inspect air suspension readiness: listen for compressor run time, check for sagging ride height, and test each corner for leaks or sensor faults.
- Request a full service history: verify major maintenance, including suspension work, transmission service, and cooling system upkeep; check for any major component recalls addressed.
- Test drive with a focus on suspension and transmission: smooth acceleration, confident braking, and absence of shuddering or harsh downshifts.
- Check electronics and infotainment: confirm that the navigation, rear camera, parking sensors, and cluster gauges function properly, since ECU problems are more common on older models.
- Inspect underbody for rust and frame damage: especially if the vehicle sees off-road use or resides in harsh climates.
- Have a Lexus specialist perform a pre-purchase inspection (PPI): a professional check can reveal hidden issues with air suspension, transmission, and engine components that owners might not notice.
Cost considerations: air suspension repairs can be expensive, often in the low to mid five-figure range when parts and labor are needed. Factor in potential maintenance on tires, brake systems, and the V8 engine, which, while robust, requires premium maintenance typical of full-size luxury SUVs.
Summary
In short, if you’re shopping for an LX 570, steer toward 2013–2021 models for the best reliability profile and fewer chronic issues, and avoid the 2008–2010 range where air-suspension and electronics problems are most prevalent. Always pair a cautious year-based preference with a thorough pre-purchase inspection, complete service history, and confirmation that all recalls have been completed. With careful selection, the LX 570 can deliver luxury, capability, and long-term value.
What are common LX 570 problems?
Look for a malfunctioning. Or blank display. Screen some areas of the screen may appear pixelated or distorted.
What year is the Lexus LX the most reliable?
FAQs: Most Reliable Lexus LX Years
We recommend the 1996-1999, 2004, 2006, and 2007-2010 selections if you're hunting for excellent reliability on the road.
Does the 2016 Lexus LX 570 have a timing belt or chain?
Timing Chain - Repair or Replace
If the chain has broken, which is a rare occurrence, the engine will not start. If your Lexus LX 570 has high mileage along with any of these other symptoms, contact our service department for expert diagnosis.
What year Lexus LX570 to avoid?
Q: Which Lexus LX years should I avoid? There are several years to avoid. We recommend staying away from the 2000, 2003, 2005, 2017, and 2019 selections.
