Why the Lexus GX 470 is Such a Highly Sought After 2000’s Luxury SUV
2024 ж. 14 Мам.
49 605 Рет қаралды
The GX 470 has always been one of my favorite SUV's of the 2000's. Let's take a look at Lexus's gussied up Prado!
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0:00 - Intro
0:37 - About this GX 470
1:30 - Powertrain Specs
3:17 - GX Wheel Options
3:39 - Trunk Area
5:25 - Pop Out Windows!
5:39 - Interior Impressions
12:27 - Driving Impressions
15:23 - Closing
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Can I review your car?
Shoot me an email with some basic info at: bernoncars@gmail.com!
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#lexus #lexusgx470 #lexusgx
purchased my 05 from my neighbor who had it since new for only $7k at 92k miles! absolute steal
Daaaaaaamnnnnn thats a steal!!
I hate you
If you would like to sell it let me know
Please, I'm on the lookout for one. If any is available, kindly notify me. Thanks.
I have a 03 470. I bought with 228K on it. I changed the timing belt, water pump and did some other maintenance things. Two years later, I have 270K on it. I’ve done multiple trips to Florida from Virginia and tons of beach driving at the OBX. It handles great in wet weather. It may not get great gas mileage, but it’s quickly overlooked
What a tank!!
We make up for the cost of gas by not having outrageous payments and insurance while having a reliable v8. 💪
This is my 4th with the v-tech v8, and it runs richer, you get more takeoff, but imo I think its just been tuned or the fuel injectors are cleaner, in total gives it a wider range, 13.7-17.7, when the last one was 14.-17. Took the carbon filter out from the top of the air box in 5 minutes, and gave it a little more takeoff, less foot pressure.
Great walk through! I have an '09 (w/~138K miles) & love it. From taking it to the gym in the AM, to 1700m road trips, to pulling my boat, to offroad climbing in the mountains of SW Idaho - the GX470 is a fantastic "family truckster". Sunny days to 1'+ deep snow - this rig handles everything ... in luxury.
Thank you! Oooo nice an 09! What a sweet ride!!
I have the black/tan 07 GX470. Never had an issue. Garage kept 101k miles. When I changed the timing belt both the owner and mechanic at the shop begged me to sell. They said it was the cleanest car they ever saw (engine/underneath) and were arguing over who would get it. I was shocked at how much they offered. I had no idea it was still worth over 20k! I guess that’s a good thing!
That really does sound like a gem! Keep it!!
I have an 03 same color scheme. My mechanic basically said the same thing. He wanted to buy it the first time I had him change the Timing belt. He keeps telling me when I take it in for maintenance to keep him in mind if I want to sell.
Honestly, one of the best videos showcasing the 1st gen GX I have ever seen. Thank You, for doing your homework, before making this video. I've owned mine for many years. I also have the Rear DVD entertainment system, as well as the rear airbag suspension system. I also like your style of video making. You've taken everything the KZhead car reviewers out there have in their arsenal, and combined them to make your own. Very commendable. .
Thank you very much!! I appreciate that!
Learned a lot without bogging down - excellent pace.
I appreciate that!
Just bought a 2006 470, it’ll be here next week. Can’t wait for this beauty.
Exciting! You will love it
Just purchased an '05 a few days ago. I'm a high end auto detailer and have taken care of this one since my client purchased it new. She also only took it to Lexus for every oil change and any repairs. I wish she'd have gotten the dash replaced when Lexus was offering that but I don't think it had started to crack until after that program was over in 2017. It's always been garaged so the paint and everything but the dash is perfect. I replaced the aging chrome OEM wheels with some satin black aftermarket wheels using the same new Michelin tires she recently had put on. 178K miles but looks more like 35K. I put a new battery in last night as the one in it was 4+ years old and I was getting the dreaded ABS, VSC TRAC, and VSC OFF lights occasionally. None since battery install so hopefully that was the issue. Occasional difficulty getting out of PARK without extra tapping of brake pedal after starting but that seems gone now as well since new battery. I did buy a brake light switch just in case that pops up again. I may also just proactively replace the shifter bushing that's prone to failure leaving it stuck in whatever gear (usually reverse) when it ultimately gives up and lets the shifter cable come off the lever mechanism (seems fine for now but don't want to have my wife or I get stuck someplace). All very easy fixes. Looking forward to many enjoyable and dependable miles. I love the way it drives. I'm still less than $7,000 in after sales tax, wheels, battery, and brake light switch! Not looking to flip it though. It's too much fun for now.
Nice!! That's a sweet deal for a solid ride man!
Nice job very informative. Your GX looks well cared for and loved.
My family owned a silver 07 470 a while back, a terrific car! Your videos are awesome and I’d love to see more of that GS430 that you have.
Nice! Thank you! I actually sold the GS a little while ago!
I’m happy you got a chance to review this car.
Me too actually!
I have a GX 470 2008. It has 180k on it and it drives like it’s brand new. Amazing SUV and very happy I purchased it.
Nice!! Enjoy it!
Same here - mine with 164K miles. I've looked at getting a newer GX460 model a couple of times, but if you drive them back-to-back the 460 feels and drives so much heavier than the 470. It's 400lbs heavier, and you feel every extra pound.
Very smooth review, thank you.
Thank you!!
2008 GX 470. 110K miles. Timing belt replaced at 100K. Had to replace the secondary air pump. Mouse gets into the intake and stuff got sucked up. Needed a front hub but other than that it has been very reliable. If the pump fails it goes into limp mode. Wifes car. Goes about 6K miles per year so it will last a long time if I can keep her from bumping into things with the bumpers. Needs new headlights. Best vehicle we have owned.
Nice, that thing will run forever!
Very comprehensive and informative.
Thank you!!
My mom bought a 2004 GX470 off the lot in 2003. It got passed to me 5 years ago. Single owner, no accident, Garage parked mall crawler. currently sitting on 180k miles with a suspension lift.
Damnnn nice! Keep that thing!
great review! i have been looking at these for awhile now and just waiting to find a nice one!!!!!...
Thank you!! I wish you luck on the search!!
just picked up an 06 love it
Sweet!!
bought my 2004 gx about two years ago with 170,000 miles on it, ive got 190k on it now and only had to put about $1,200 into it in maintenance and repairs and the engine is honestly just as, if not more bulletproof than the civic i own. phenomenal car if you give it love
Nice, solid ride man!
I have 2005 GX 470 and she is an absolute QUEEN… I love her to pieces. My husband bought her for me for our anniversary two years ago. She has a bit over 176,000 and I did automatically have a new timing belt/water pump etc put in (because better safe than sorry). This beauty drives like a dream!!! I do baby her because she is such a great vehicle. If anybody out there is on the fence about buying one, do not hesitate they are absolutely wonderful vehicles. You won’t go wrong with Lexus!!!
Nice!! That’s so great. They drive soooo nice, enjoy it!!
Great video thank you very informative. You make me proud that I am the owner of a 2007 Lexus GX 470 that I bought brand new back in 2007 and I have kept it like a baby ever cents at his garage kept I try not to drive it in inclement weather. I stay up on all of the maintenance that is needed and described. As a matter fact, I do it before it’s needed so if that gives me the feeling that I am treating and servicing this vehicle, the way it deserves to be treated and serviced. Of course by Lexus only I have 91,000 miles on her now and she rides and drives as if she came out of the show room yesterday, I am proud to be a member of this wonderful club and thank you again for the excellent video and review.
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed and keep on enjoying that GX!
I grew up in one of these! My mom had a blue one, My dad sold it in the 08 financial crisis and invest the money. My mom was very upset but after the market went back up, I think she got over it lol. Funny story, I was eating a popsicle in it and left it on the DVD player in the center console and it broke it 😅
Damn! LOL. Ohhh no! Kids, ugh 🤣
@@BernonCars I was a little shit for sure
My wife and I recently found an 08 GX470 with only 88k original miles. It has some minor cosmetic damage, but is in fantastic condition. It will be her car for a season...then I may build it into an off road rig. We feel very fortunate to have found this rig owned by one family since new. So far she loves it.
That’s cool!! Such low mileage too
If your wife falls in love with that vehicle like I did with mine, she won’t be giving her up anytime soon. These are the BEST!!!
Great review!!
Thank you! Cheers!
Good review
Thank you!!
Not to mention how very capable they are in off-road situations.
They’re beastly!
You video was very thorough. Loved it. Bought a 2004 black with gray interior only 64k miles excellent interior condition, no navigation, a bit of rust underneath. Had the rust treated , changed wheels and added a android auto car play and back up camera. Loves driving it except on highway there is a vibration at 60 to 70mph. Brought to to 3 different wheel balancers. Still getting vibration. Also have a 2014 black with no issues
Thank you! Wow nice!! That’s such low mileage LOL. Interesting about the vibration! Tires?
No Nav is key. Looks like about 10-20% of them don’t have the Nav.
Mine only has 250,000 miles. Still feels smooth as silk.
Nice!!
I got my 04 with 239k for 4200 a couple months ago. Love this thing. Knocked out most of the main prev maintenance and rebuilt the front suspension and converted the rear to springs. Its a solid tank. slowly modding it for modern comforts and offroad
Nice!! Good deal!
that's a good deal. I've been searching low and high, with that year and miles, the lowest asking price I see for my area is $7500
@@austintx4556 it was definitely due to the fact the interior was wrecked with gunk and cigarettes. But 18 hours with a hot water extractor and a steamer with the seats removed did wonders. Even deep cleaned the vents with steam and deodorizer
What’s the cost to convert to springs?
@@jooman81 iron man airbag delete was 200 and the springs were 100
Got my 05 GX470 sport w/KDSS, Silver w/ Black Wood Interior / Smoked Head/Rear lights on BFG KO2s w/ TRD style rims. No lift needed so far, the KDSS gives enough additional articulation off-road and handles excellent on-road. Got it w/ 165k last year and have gone on 5 road trips, one to central Mexico and plenty of remote / 4x4 areas. Put 12k on it the last year. Never getting rid of it!
Nice!! Enjoy it!!
You have the sport package. It's a very rare option on these. The only way you can tell from the outside is the wheels are dark gun metal grey
Thank's Bern
Thank you!
Really good write up!
Thank you!
I have a 04 with 145k. Still feel comfortable driving it anywhere even with a 2” life and 33s. It’s a baby Land Cruiser, so the reliability and quality are expected. Our v8 was built with forged internals in the same Japanese plant the 100 series was made unlike the 4Runners and tundra/sequoias.
Nice, a solid setup! Ohh interesting, that’s good to know!
4Runner made in Japan also! .. also the only two 2UZ that hit a million miles were from the 07 Tundra (made in USA)
Love my new, to me, 2007 GX470. I bought it with 217k and have really enjoyed it so far. It will be a toy puller for motorcycles and watercraft.
Good choice!!
I have a 03 GX 470 with 206K. I have had very few issues. The main one being the air suspension. I did a coil spring conversion about 4 years ago. I drive it daily and have taken it on long trips and to the mountains. Very reliable. I don't plan on selling this vehicle. If I need good gas mileage I take my other car that gets 27 - 30 mpg. All the electronics work and the stereo sounds better than any of my previous vehicles. Only downside is no bluetooth or aux.
Nice! And it’ll last you a good long while
You couldn't get aux on the GX470 until ~2007. Still, no factory bluetooth though.
Very thorough
Thank you!
Slight correction: besides being offered in the first gen Tundra, the 4.7 2UZ-FE engine was also used in the first three years of the second generation Tundra, 2007-2009, before phasing in the 4.6 option as a contrasting choice to the 5.7. I own a 2007 Tundra with the 2UZ-FE.
Ahhh good note!
Amazing Offroad/Onroad SUV GX470❤
It sure is!
Well done
Thanm you!
Presentation is well done! Whats the asking price on the Black Beast?
Thank you!! Here’s the Craigslist link for it! washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/cto/d/mc-lean-2006-lexus-gx470-4x4/7631669230.html
My parents own a 05 with 15,000 miles they literally only use it for going to through Canada and back
Damn! Literally like brand new
If they ever want to sell let me know 😂
they down to sell ?
That almost has to be a typo, 15,000!?
@@greasemonkey5025 it’s 16k now that they came back from Virginia they plan on just using it for retirement
2 years ago, I bought a 2005 with 218k that was going wholesale at a Toyota dealer because it has the infamous 2UZ battle cry (manifold tick that you can't even hear with the windows up) and leaky rear airbags. I haven't fixed anything or even changed the oil yet and have no clue when it last got a new timing belt, but it gets me everywhere I need to go.... as long as I quench it's immense thirst.
That’s a solid daily driver!
its similar to the 4runner, but its not the lexus counterpart. its actually a short wheelbase land cruiser which is why its characteristics are more smooth and robust. i have an 07 and its never given me any grief ever since new
Correct, technically the 4 runner is based of the GX because the GX is the sister car of the Land Cruiser Prado so it’s a 120 series. That’s why I call it the baby LC or tuxedo prado
Good review, very knowledgeable, good sense of humor, very well spoken!
I appreciate that, thank you!
The Lexus GX470 is actually more related to the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado than the 4Runner. Apart from the KDSS, the V8 and 5 speed automatic transmission, there's not much shared with the 4Runner. In fact, the design is shared with the J120 Prado (2002-2009).
Ahh yes good point! I once wanted to rebadge a GX as a Prado if I bought one 😂 just referring to the 4Runner in terms of the North American market!
The problem is when you say Prado nobody knows what your talking about. I just tell people the frame is a 4runner but the body is completely different.
There are a lot more shared parts than the engine and transmission. The suspension including the rear air suspension is shared with the 4th gen 4Runner Limited. KDSS was not available on the 4th gen 4Runner. A lot of the parts can be brought using 4Runner parts, especially the V8 4Runner. I source the same parts for both the 4Runner (including the 3rd gen) and GX470 from my local Toyota dealer. Yes, surprisingly some parts from the 4th gen 4Runner/120 series Prado/GX470 can be used in the 90 eries Prado/3rd gen 4Runner. This include oil filter (TRD/YZZD3 fit on 5VZ as well as 2UZ), shocks and springs, and wheels. About the only thing not shared is the body/trim pieces. Literally everything underneath is shared with the V8 4Runner (but not the 1st gen Sequoia nor the 100 series Land Cruiser/LX470; transfer case is different between all 3).
@@BernonCarsthe headlights and taillights will give it away as a Lexus. The Prado doesn't have the front marker lights, and the taillights look rounder.
My 2004 GX has 230K on the clock and I have had it for almost 3 years. Just about perfect with many upgrades. Including the 10" Tesla Style Screen to replace the main console from Phoenix Automotive in California. Best thing I did! Makes it modern and after a few tweaks and great support from them in late 2020 has been almost perfect. No I do not work for them. LOL! Many other small things. I have a couple of short 1min videos on my page for fun that show my progress. Cheers!
Nice! New headunit is one of my favorite mods to do! I’ll check them out!!
@@BernonCars Phoenix Automotive is a reseller and handles everything with support. Much better than trying to luck and buying it piecemeal online. Glad I went this route. Almost trouble free for 2.5 years now! Cheers!
Liked and subbed. I have a 2007 GX470. 144k miles. ;)
Welcome! Thank you!
Just fyi, HIDs were never an option on any GX470 for the whole 2003-2009 run.
Very well presented! What is/was the asking price for this GX470? I am currently shopping for this exact year GX and have actually scheduled to meet with the owner tomorrow Monday 7-23-23.
Thank you! It ended up selling for just under 17k!
Hello to all, I have had many cars, and trucks older, new, and everything in between., 6 years ago, I bought a 2003 Lexus gx 470 with 90K miles, today, after 6 years, it has 116K miles, the very best car ever.
They are so great. Cheers!!
I Found a beaut, 07 with Nav, pearl w/tan, but the paint was redone a tad brighter, 186k, and paid at the top of the scale, then had to have the car dealer complete overdue maintenance, then added a $900 repair. The defender 265/70/17 looks better, which is what the 2003 started with. Short tires are just a bit harsher, and these were cheaper than 65's, but you cant use 70's on a 18" wheel w/o mods. 2 real estate women owned it at separate times, the first one kept it tip top, but the lexus dealer who sold it to my dealer really overhauled a big part of the front end/suspension, replaced bottom seat areas, new carpet, windshield, cant list it all. Ive had 3 4runner (LTD 4wd w/Nav), one other Gx, and this is the first one that tracks road so geometrically accurate. It was immaculate visually, and you know it was driven carefully from feeling so newer, and has not had any problem. I justify less of a bargain knowing this one is like under 100k timewise, many parts are new, and was trying to save time from driving all over, and will need less maintenance, also you have less time off work doing maintenance. Oh and NO rust, looks new under the front!
Sweeeeet!!
2009 GX470 with 175,000 greatest car I’ve ever purchased
Nice!!!
I've discovered from driving both the GX470 and GX460 that the GX470 is easier to drive. I can't determine why though. 3:04 it depends on the year though. This example is part of the 2005 refresh where the engine was updated for more power, unlike 2003-2004 where the engine had 235hp.
Interesting! I haven’t driven a 460 in a while too!
The 460 is heavier and you can feel it when you are driving.
And the 2uzfe was also in the sequoia
I have an 08 and the only issues I have is an exhaust manifold leak and the air suspension. Oh yea and it’s a gas guzzler! But it drives like a dream.
Nice thats not bad! They drive soo nice
My 04 sequoia with almost 300k miles is the best vehicle I've ever owned
I love those Sequoias!!
I have an GX 470 2007 and it has 205K on it, it is due for another oil change at the dealer. Underneath it is so clean you can touch anything not get dirty, zero rust, Ca. vehicle. So really can you buy a better 15K SUV? If so it is a older 4 Runner
Nice! That’s so great. It’ll last an eternity!!
for me the gx470 was one of the best built suv. now you can get a range rover sport for $4000 but the gx470 $9000. but yeah they kinda pricey. but i will like to own one of them one day
Worth every penny
My brother inherited our dad's Landcruiser 1997 that was in mint condition. He parked it front of his house and someone drove by and noticed it. The guy knocked on his door and begged him to sell it to him. My brother told him no but the guy kept coming back weekly...almost stalking him. After the 4th time he came my brother told him to not come back or he'll call the cops.
That’s crazy, gotta garage it!
2007 gx470 best suv on the road love to drive it so relaxing and luxurious best car ever built I would want all my family members to own one 😂
They’re great man 😂
That back seat looks super tight. The second row doesnt recline or slide back and forth? How does my crv have more room?
Yeah its strange for sure. Its mostly because these are on a RWD platform vs the FWD based CRV, so the engine and transmission take up interior space in the GX
Hard to find because I got 2 of them :D
Hahaha
My neighbor owns an LX, GX470 and a Land Cruiser. I own a GX460 and 3rd gen 4Runner, previously owned a 4th gen. IMO the GX470s are overpriced. I got a 2012 GX460 for $13k and the 470s were all the same price. The 470s have issues the 460 doesn’t really…. From the first gen of air suspension failing to the timing belt to the dash cracking to the seats cracking…. Then you got the weird cumbersome 3rd row versus one that folds nice and near…. And the back window doesn’t open on the 470. The 470 (and all 4.7s) has exhaust manifold cats that go bad and the starter is a pain in the butt too. IMO 460 > 470
I actually agree! I prefer the 460 myself too
That's for the review but is the GX still available for sale and how much? Thanks.
It sold!
We have one , drives like a big cat , power and agility .
Are those 18" Lexus wheels on the silver one? What size tire? Thanks
They are! From the 2014+ GX 460 base. Not sure on tire size
I have a 2007 with 109000, rides great but the clear coat is an issue.
Dang low miles! Still a keeper though
I believe youre looking at 3uz engines post 2004
The 3UZ was the 4.3 in the LS/GS 430!
U forgot about cruize controll
I have a 2004 GX470 with 35k miles.
Wow! A peach!!
My 04 has close to 400k, ive run it in +40c to -40c..... my only complaint is the outside temp gauge only works to -30.........even my WK Grand Cherokee went to -39. But, to be fair it was the only thing it did better.
Damn! Frigid!!!
You actually got the speeds of the transmission almost right - until mid 2004 - they had 4-speed auto, moving up to 5-speed that helped fuel economy. Both are super reliable.
Ahhh! Thanks for the info! So close haha
Cats out of the bag. These used to be reasonable refined luxury off-roaders, now they’re the target of all wannabe overlanders. Glad I was able to ride the wave with a 100 series cruiser and a low mileage 09’ 470 (blizzard pearl paint still good) while it lasted.
I got an 05 lx 470 with 300k miles 🤘
I bet it’ll do another 300 easyy
@@BernonCars I have no doubt it will. Drives great up to date on maintenance and no issues.
I daily drive my 2008 Black GX
Nice!
Just bought it with2007 236kmiles on im planing to do timing belt
Sweet!
Why is the 08-09 the holy grail of gx?
Minor differences on the interior, and some more choices of color. Also slightly different tail lights, but nothing too different LOL
We have an 08 with 75000 miles. Black with tan interior and fully loaded. Let’s hear some offers.
How can I contact you? Im interested in making an offer
I'll offer 9 k
@@kevs482 already got $21k for it. That’s an extremely low offer, I literally laughed when I read that.
@xwarped83 I laughed too 😂😂😂
@@xwarped839k a good offer bum
Inaccurate about transmissions bro. All gx470 came with 5 speed transmission. None with 4.7 v8 has 6 speed. Only 4.6 v8 has 6 speed and thats 2009 plus with the redesign with 8.2 rear diff. 4.7 v8 has 8 inch rear diff. Great video btw. Just fyi
Ahh yeah I mentioned that at 2:21. Thanks for watching!
I’m looking at getting a GX or an LX
Nicee both are fantastic
GX is lighter, LX is roomier. GX is simpler, no AHC, LX is nicer. With the GX you can find one without the navigation screen, which is huge. For the LX you have to go before ‘03 to not get the Nav, or take on the complicated and expensive job of doing a conversion. Those parts are hard to get. Tailgate is better than the side open door. I’m either getting a 98-02 LX/LC or GX without Nav. I already did the Nav conversion in a Lexus LS400. It was difficult, but not nearly as difficult as either of these models.
@@kftc1980 thank you very much for this info, I’ve seen people put Tesla like screens in place of the infotainment center and I wanted to do that if it wasn’t a difficult task of course. I’m also definitely leaning more towards an LX then I am the GX
@@LTCEZIO switching to a screen like that updates the technology, but doesn’t increase the reliability or simplicity. You still end up with a screen that is tied to your climate control. An aftermarket screen that is probably much less reliable long term than the OEM screen. If/when the screen fails, you have no AC in the Summer and no defroster in the winter. I’ll stick with buttons and switches.
@@kftc1980 shoot I didn’t even think about that. Thank you.
Why are these priced the same as an ex rental 4 runner? I don’t get it
Yeah it's absurd honestly!
I got an Burgundy 08 GX 470 with 147,000
Niiicee
my family has 3 of these in posetion we got the first one in 2012 and the 2nd one in december 2022 and the 3rd one january 2023 the first ones a 2006 the second & 3rd one are 2008
Nice!
GX470 never came with 6-speed auto.
My mistake, I noticed it while editing
yeah you get 12 mi a gallon with the SUV
Worth it
Around me, they all $10k pos with 250k+ miles. Hard pass lol
Annoying!
250k on a Toyota though it's just broken in lol
Not fast. Engine roars, Blasts past cars!! I love mine!
Yeah!!
"Sought" (not Saught) :-)
Ohhhhh, thank you! Ha
Higly. What is that?
Dammit! Thank you for finding that 😂
Soccer mom rig…get a truck
Why?
Another stupid comment on LEXUS 470/460 barn door oo boy and nobody ever mentions defenders rear door, bronco rear door, G wagon rear door, every frickn wrangler rear door well at least to your credit you say was your preference, not the car flaw credit on that…. etc etc in general hypocrisy at best
Yeah I just don't like it for my personal use, I haven't mentioned Defender and all those because I've never driven one LOL. I much prefer a split/lift open hatch than a swing out, regardless of the car
@@BernonCars agree and I respect personal opinion I just hate a lot of KZheadrs found barn door as a car flaw they don’t find the flaw with the wrangler they drive, so comment was nothing personal. That’s why I said people comments in general by the way, great channel and good videos
Timing belt …no thanks
If you service it every decade it won’t give you any problems 🤷🏾
Just bought a 09 gx 2nd owner int. and ext. are excellent $14thou. with 116thou.miles everything works lift an tires coming soon.
Nicee thats sweet!