agood1

I am looking at a 03-04 GX. I need something that will tow my 3500lb camper. From what I can tell this is well under the rated tow capacity of the GX.

So what are the problem areas I should look out for when evaluating a used GX?

Thanks

cssnms

Yes, the GX will handle that load without a problem. I tow in excess of 5500 lbs and the truck does great.

Aside from the usual stuff that you should be looking at, here's my list of things that are particular to the GX...

1) Find out which TSIB's have been performed. One of the most important is the replacement of the driveshaft to fix the "CLUNK." The other important TSIB is for the highway "DRONE." Lastly, and less common is the TSIB for the air conditioner, which is suppose to fix a problem the A/C might have with cooling in hot climates. Not all GX's suffer from these conditions but they are some of the most popular and more expensive to repair should you need to come out of pocket, so be senstative to these things during your test drive.

2) Brakes... The GX rotors are prone to premature run-out otherwise known as warping. Feel for pulsing in the pedal or steering wheel vibration while coming to a stop. Find out if and when the pads and rotors were last replaced. If the seller only had the rotors turned expect that they will warp again sometime in the near future.

3) Wheel finish blistering

4) Excessive under carriage corrosion

5) Check that the rear leveling suspension is working properly. It will hiss and that is normal.

6) Although an easy fix, stale A/C smell. Problem occurs because the previous owner may have run the A/C on recirc mode to often so mold begins to form on the condensor coils impacting AQ.

Otherwise, it's a GREAT truck! I love it as much today as the day I drove it off the showroom floor.

agood1

Are there any pros and cons with the Nav system or without it?

Booyah

Not really--you will just get lost more often...lol

agood1

Does the sound system sound any different with or without the nav?

cssnms

More arguements with your significant other.

cssnms

The Mark Levinson sounds better than the base system. I have the base system and I have been more than happy with the performance. If you like your bass the Levinson system is the way to go, but if you're one of those bass junkies after market is your only option.

Booyah

I think the NAV system add a nice touch of class--Makes it look that more $$$$ for a Lexus. Without the NAV installed the dash looks too Blah to me.

agood1

Well, I bought it last night. 2004 model with the Nav system. I checked everything mentioned in the thread and all seemed to be OK. My only concern is it has 91K miles on it.
How long do the transmissions on these trucks last? Anything else that tends to go out at 90k+?

Thanks
Here's a picture.

dbacf

I think you have a long way to go with this vehicle, looks to be in very good condition so the previous owner most likely took care of things including routine maint. How much $ did you pay? If I could ask.

Good luck with your new wheels.

jditom

Did the PO do a timing belt/water pump at 90k? Also the V belt.

Look at the drivers side bottom of the radiator. Some earlier models were prone to leak there. You will see small pink drips on your suspension.

If the tranny fluid has not ever been, Do it if you are going to tow. I let my Toyota dealer change mine using all the same fluids etc. for almost half the price of the Lexus dealer. $410 vs $220

Change all your fluids and filters and you are good to go.

Congrats

agood1

Not sure on the timing belt. I bought it from a dealer, and the carfax showed it was a leased vehicle out of Florida.
Is this an interference motor?

I could not find any leaks.

cssnms

Looks sweet and really clean! Have a Lexus service SA pull the service history to see if the timing belt was done, if not, get'r done. You don't want that fail!

antonio98

Very nice looking GX. Looks good as new. Enjoy!

austinchic

Yes, the 2UZ-FE is an interference motor. Never fun to have to worry about...

http://us.lexusownersclub.com/forums...howtopic=18729