I am new to the forum and have a 2003 GX470. I am also a not-so-experienced mechanic. I had not driven my Lexus for several weeks. A couple weeks a go, I went out to put a few things in the back and noticed that the rear end of the vehicle and particularly the right rear were about 6" lower than normal. Driving it revealed a sharp thud on even the smallest road imperfections.

I'm guessing this is due to blown shocks, or are there other issues that may have caused It? I am planning on selling it asap, but want to repair it first. On ebay, I see OEM replacent shocks are $650 ea. WOW! Do I need to replace with OEM or what is a suitable alternative? I never used the Sport/comfort mode switch. If I don't use OEM Shocks, does an aftermarket shock work as well? If so, can anyone recommend suitable alternatives to OEM? THANKS!

 

Shocks do not hold the truck up…..springs do. You have air bags as springs in this vehicle…they are leaking air!

 

Yes, bad air-spring(s). Happens to all of them eventually, and for a 2003 you're lucky they lasted this long.

Chip H.

 

Yup, leaking air bags. If your shocks are bad you can replace them with 4Runner shocks for like $70 ea without the adjustability though.

 

Thamks all for your help on diagnosing my GX 470 rear suspension issues. After more reading and because my Lexus is 18 yrs old, I am going to replace with coil springs and disable the air system. Now, can anyone please recommend a suitable retrofit kit with Springs and shocks? I've seen Strutmaster, Sun core, and a few others. Any recommendations? Thanks again!

 

If you are planning to sell why not just replace the bad air spring on the right side? You can get a replacement on Amazon for les than $90.

 

Well...the fact is that I'm not 100% sure it's just the airbag(s). Perhaps the air pump is bad, or a leak in the gas supply line, or the sensors. Rather than trying to troubleshoot it piecemeal, I just thought I'd cut out the entire problem, git 'er done!, and move on.

 

Only one side is down right?


Probably all you need! The guys SELLING conversion kits want you to believe you might save money. Your not lifting it for fun or anything , so its best if all functions work if selling it! Your shocks dampen so you don't bounce off the road.

If both sides were down and the compressor was toast, then I would think conversion kit.

 

I replaced both airbags. I reset the system using the #4 & 13 pin. I started the vehicle and the air compressor came on. I hear no leaks. Drive around the block and it's still a ruff, bouncy ride. What else do I need to do??

 

Actually, both sides were down. Probably the victims of rubber dry rot. If and when I sell the vehicle, I'll leave the remaining air suspension parts, if they see fit to restore an 18+ year old GX470 to original condition.

 

Your shocks also need replaced. Both F+R.

Expensive, but will restore your ride to near new.

 

Have ordered both rear coil Springs and shocks from Strutmaster.