Which year is the Lexus GX470 best?

The GX470 doesn’t have an official “best year,” but many buyers consider the 2005–2007 models to offer the best balance of reliability, value, and features. Clean, well-maintained examples from other years can also be excellent, depending on budget and priorities.

Context: the GX470 lifecycle and what to expect by year

The Lexus GX470 was sold in the United States from 2003 through 2009 as a mid-size luxury SUV known for durability and a robust V8. It features full-time four-wheel drive and a reputation for long-term reliability when properly maintained. A mid-cycle refresh around the 2006 model year brought updates to interior materials and certain tech features, while the core mechanicals remained strong throughout the run.

Which years tend to stand out for buyers

Here’s a quick look at how different year ranges are commonly perceived by shoppers and reviewers. The list helps prospective buyers gauge what to expect in terms of price, condition, and features.

• 2005–2007: Generally regarded as the sweet spot for value, reliability, and balanced features. These years often offer a good mix of modern conveniences without the higher mileage or price of the final years.


• 2003–2004: First-generation US market examples; typically cheaper to buy but can carry higher mileage and wear. They can be reliable if well maintained, but potential buyers should scrutinize service history and major wear items.


• 2008–2009: Last production years with potentially higher asking prices and mileage. These can be attractive when low miles and solid maintenance history are present, but buyers should weigh the price premium against remaining years of expected life.

When evaluating a GX470 by year, buyer notes should focus on service history, the condition of the timing chain (the engine uses a chain, which is generally durable), transmission health, suspension wear, and any signs of rust or frame corrosion. A professional pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended to identify issues that could influence a year-based decision.

Buying tips by year category

Use these guidelines to tailor your search according to your budget and priorities, while keeping in mind that maintenance history matters most.

• For the lowest purchase price: consider 2003–2004 examples with documented maintenance, but be prepared for potential upcoming repairs due to age and mileage.


• For best overall value: target 2005–2007 cars with clean maintenance records and moderate mileage; they typically balance cost and condition well.


• For potential refinements and lower mileage: 2006–2009 models can offer newer interiors or tech updates, often at a higher price but with less wear.

Across all years, prioritize a thorough inspection, verify a clean maintenance log, and check for common aging concerns such as cooling system wear, suspension components, and rust. The GX470’s durability meaningfully rewards attentive care, and a well-kept example can last well into the 200k–300k mile range.

Summary

There is no single “best” year for the Lexus GX470. The 2005–2007 interval is frequently cited as the best value-for-money choice due to a favorable mix of reliability, features, and price in the used market. Early 2003–2004 models offer bargain pricing but may come with higher mileage, while 2008–2009 models can command a premium for lower mileage and final-year refinements. As with any used vehicle, a comprehensive maintenance history and a thorough pre-purchase inspection are the best predictors of long-term satisfaction.

What years to avoid Lexus LX 470?

While the Lexus LX470 is generally reliable, the pre-2003 models are the ones to approach with caution due to their less durable four-speed automatic transmission and potential for drivetrain backlash. Owners of all LX470s should also be aware of the potential for issues with older components like window and door lock actuators and possible EVAP system problems, and be prepared for potentially expensive repairs on any used vehicle, notes SlashGear. 
This video explains some of the potential problems to check for when buying a used Lexus LX470: 53sBefore BuyingYouTube · Dec 7, 2022
Years to be cautious about

• Pre-2003 models: These models are known to have a less robust four-speed automatic transmission, which can develop backlash (a clunking noise when shifting).
• Drivetrain issues: While the 2003-2007 models have a stronger five-speed transmission, they can still experience drivetrain backlash, especially with demanding use or high mileage. This is often due to worn-out components in the front gearbox, transfer case, and other parts. 

Other potential issues to consider

• Electrical components: As the vehicles age, components like window motors, seat motors, and door lock actuators are more prone to failure due to their age and wear and tear, says a YouTube video. 
• EVAP system: The Check Engine light can be triggered by faults in the EVAP system or a failed oxygen sensor, according to RepairPal. 
• Starting issues: Some models, particularly the earlier ones, may experience stalling and idle instability or a crank-no-start condition due to immobilizer or fuel pump relay issues. 

What is the most reliable Lexus GX 470?

Quick Answer: Get the 2009 Lexus GX 470
There are many years to choose from with the Lexus GX 470. However, we recommend going with the last year for this vehicle - the 2009 model. This version has the best reliability and a comfortable seating arrangement for any family.

What are the pros and cons of the 2007 Lexus GX470?

PROS: Powerful motor, smooth, quiet ride, car-like handling, comfortable seats, reliable, and go anywhere AWD CONS: Avg 16MPG, and the navigation is crap. (But, who uses the car nav with smartphones anyway?)

What is the most reliable year for the Lexus GX?

The most reliable Lexus GX years are generally considered to be 2021 and 2022, with the 2021 model being called the "pinnacle" of the previous generation due to being late enough in the production cycle to have most issues resolved. The entire 2010-2023 GX 460 generation is known for its long-term reliability, thanks to its tried-and-true V8 engine and solid construction. 
This video discusses the reliability of the Lexus GX 460 across its model years: 59sThe Long Last ExpertYouTube · Nov 7, 2024
Most reliable years to consider

• 2021: Often cited as the best year of the last generation, as it's considered late enough in the model cycle for most bugs to have been worked out. 
• 2022: Also received top marks for reliability, according to sources like Top Speed. 
• 2010-2023 GX 460 generation: This entire generation is highly reliable, with the V8 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission being known for their longevity. The 2010 model year was an early target for a software update regarding the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), but other years are very dependable. 

Potential issues to watch for

• Oil leaks: Some oil leaks can occur, especially on 2016 and 2017 models. 
• Rust: Models driven in regions with heavy road salt may be prone to rust, particularly on older versions. 
• Timing belt: The 4.7L V8 in the earlier GX 470 models requires a timing belt replacement every 100,000 miles, which is a potential maintenance cost to consider. 

Overall reliability

• The Lexus GX is consistently ranked as one of the most reliable luxury SUVs due to its sturdy body-on-frame construction and Toyota engineering. 
• With proper maintenance, a GX can last for over 300,000 miles. 
• The long-running GX 460 (2010-2023) is a good choice for long-term ownership due to its simplified and robust technology compared to newer, more complex vehicles.