I'm a kid who is fortunate enough to be receiving my mom's 08 GX with over 150k on the clock. The big service including the timing belt, water pump, and other things included with that service has been done. Also, the spark plugs and transmission fluid will be getting changed soon, aside from that, is there anything else that I should know that may fail on this truck. I understand that the two big problem areas on this truck are the suspension and transmission, or so I've heard. If any other owners out there could chime in and let me know of their experience or just anyone in general who knows anything, it would be much appreciated. Thanks you!

 

These trucks do not have transmission issues, whatsoever. Air suspension yes, but it can be fixed for around $300 with a set of coils.

 

Brake rotor run-out, sticking calipers, air suspension quirks, leaking radiator are well known issues.

 

Thanks for the input!

 

The biggest thing you need to know is that the GX is a large suv that doesn't corner well nor stop on the dime, especially when its full of passengers or gear. Take it easy on the road.

The radiator will need to be replaced soon if it hasn't already, but that might have been done in the 150k mile service. Definitely swap out the rear air setup for coils, ditch the running boards, get a set of all terrains and it will be plenty capable. Do a search on here and mud's 120 section and you will find more info on preventive maintenance.

Good luck!

 

Absolutely. Even with the leveling air suspension, you can certainly tell when you've got a couple of people in there with you.
Drive cautiously. The danger of tip-over is real.

Chip H.

 

I would add to that, GX's have a decent amount of power and acceleration, more than most people are accustomed to. This fact, combined with the incredibly comfortable ride, mean that it's very easy to get moving faster than you realize. Then a curve comes upon you and you realize you're going way too fast to make it. I've been driving all manner of vehicles for more than 25 years and I've had to check myself with the GX. Even my diesel pickup truck with twice the torque isn't as touchy.

As far as the transmission, just change the fluid regularly (50k or so) and it should last a long time. Just typical automatic maintenance. Air suspension is another matter, but with a bit of shopping around you can find parts cheap enough if it gives you trouble.

 

0-60 on the VVT-i engined GX470s is in the low 7's, something that was sports car territory 20 years ago.

Chip H.

 

Maybe it's just me since I have a modified '13 Mustang GT & a stock '14 Focus ST, but I consider the GX kind of slow. Granted I take corners quite a bit slower in the GX... You don't say how old you are but I think the GX is a great vehicle for the younger crowd. It's big, sit up high, safe & pretty dependable. I would of loved it if I was younger - haul friends & cargo for camping, parties, etc.

I just put BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A K02 tires on mine to ensure I can get around in bad weather or if I decide to go off-roading a bit. Pretty aggressive tire & it looks really good. Later I may modify it a little more for off-roading but now it's a spare for when I need something bigger.

Congrats on getting the GX!