Avoid: 2010, 2004, 2003 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2009 (few owner reports) · Best recent: 2021
21 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 22 model years, the Lexus GX has 479 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 40 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and structure. 2004 drew the most complaints (85), 2009 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (1).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Lexus GX vehicles (US, public record).
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 13 |
| 2024 | 20 |
| 2023 | 6 |
| 2022 | 7 |
| 2020 | 5 |
| 2019 | 8 |
| 2018 | 9 |
| 2017 | 15 |
| 2016 | 9 |
| 2015 | 11 |
| 2014 | 21 |
| 2013 | 7 |
| 2012 | 11 |
| 2011 | 36 |
| 2010 | 38 |
| 2009 | 1 |
| 2008 | 15 |
| 2007 | 39 |
| 2006 | 38 |
| 2005 | 33 |
| 2004 | 85 |
| 2003 | 52 |
Highest: 2004 (85 complaints). Lowest: 2009 (1).
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation. The previous-generation GX 460 (model years up to 2023) is overwhelmingly praised for its legendary reliability, proven V8 powertrain, comfortable and durable luxury, and high long-term value.
Safety recall for machining debris causing potential bearing failure and catastrophic engine seizure. Linked to broader issues with Toyota/Lexus's new turbo engines.
Widespread owner and analyst concern about unproven new powertrain and potential for other "mechanical bugs" in the first model year.
Poor gas mileage (reported 15-18 MPG) and requirement for premium fuel are consistently noted as a significant ownership cost.
Failure of the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System front piston, leading to expensive repairs ($4,000+).
Spongy brake feel and persistent squealing, sometimes linked to non-OEM pad replacements by dealers.
Owner insights cover all generations of the GX. Individual model years are broken down above.
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