07 GX with 136k - Transfer Case fluid never changed - opinion request
Hey guys, current ’04 SC430 and ’05 LS430 owner here. LOVE them both and I have been searching for a GX470 for some time now to complete my UZ-FE stable (also have an ’04 Tundra) I am looking at this one:
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/2007-lexus-gx470-38/
My question to this fine group of GX experts - is there any concern at 136k miles that there is no record of differentials, transfer case, or transmission fluids being changed? My LS has impeccable maintenance history, but my SC did not have transmission or differential changed when I bought last year with 124k. I changed all fluids immediately and have not had any issues. Just curious mainly with the transfer case since I am not familiar with it. Also, what is your guess as to where this auction will end up? Thanks for any and all information to help me make a smart bidding decision.
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/2007-lexus-gx470-38/
My question to this fine group of GX experts - is there any concern at 136k miles that there is no record of differentials, transfer case, or transmission fluids being changed? My LS has impeccable maintenance history, but my SC did not have transmission or differential changed when I bought last year with 124k. I changed all fluids immediately and have not had any issues. Just curious mainly with the transfer case since I am not familiar with it. Also, what is your guess as to where this auction will end up? Thanks for any and all information to help me make a smart bidding decision.
I wouldn't be too concerned with it. Just change all the fluids if you get it. The only thing I might would worry about is if the center diff actuator hasn't been used often, then it may not work. They tend to get stuck if not used very often.
I have changed the belt moldings - but not the pop-out windows. Just too hard to do. There are new-old-stock ones available on eBay. Or knock-offs of course.
Their mistake was going to a different color. If they had stayed with chrome it wouldn't be noticeable.
Regarding the fluids - it doesn't have a hitch so it wasn't used for towing. It does have AT tires, but being in Florida - there's not a lot of rock & hill climbing to do there.
It's probably fine, but with any new car, you should change all the fluids because previous owners can't be trusted to do routine maintenance.
Use factory fluids for the coolant & transmission.
The engine oil, brake, transfer case, and differentials can be any good quality aftermarket fluid that meets the spec (no need for expensive "race" fluids - just something like Castrol, Mobil, etc.)
PS: I want those floor mats! They're unobtainable now and those look perfect.
Chip H.
Their mistake was going to a different color. If they had stayed with chrome it wouldn't be noticeable.
Regarding the fluids - it doesn't have a hitch so it wasn't used for towing. It does have AT tires, but being in Florida - there's not a lot of rock & hill climbing to do there.

It's probably fine, but with any new car, you should change all the fluids because previous owners can't be trusted to do routine maintenance.
Use factory fluids for the coolant & transmission.
The engine oil, brake, transfer case, and differentials can be any good quality aftermarket fluid that meets the spec (no need for expensive "race" fluids - just something like Castrol, Mobil, etc.)
PS: I want those floor mats! They're unobtainable now and those look perfect.
Chip H.
Last edited by chiph9; Yesterday at 01:41 PM.
Thanks for your input Chip! I did notice the floor mats and have bought new when I got my LS and SC. Really freshens up the inside. I searched and found they are no longer available. Thanks again for your response.
@offroad200 Thanks for taking the time to respond. Helps with my decision.
Last edited by ke77323; Today at 03:28 AM.
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Kezel, I was looking at the same one on BAT. Not for buying, but just for comps to others. It's a nice-looking car....I, personally, would not be concerned about the miles on the fluids. You are going to change them out, anyway. Did you take a look at the 2009, also on BAT? It has shot up in price pretty quick, and it got a full new repaint in '22.
Good luck with the bidding.
Good luck with the bidding.
@11bravo Thanks for your reply and opinion. I have watched the GX's on BAT for several years now. Crazy the prices they bring, but I feel more comfortable with something off of that site verses some used lot. With that said, yes I did see the 2008 but that will finish well above what I am willing to pay. I will probably get one in the 130-160k mile range and hopefully in the $14-16k range.. I like this 2007 because of the frequent oil change record and the undercarriage looks great. I do believe it will finish above my price range too, but will give it a shot. Thanks again for your input.
Last edited by ke77323; Today at 03:31 AM.
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