2003 Lexus GX: common problems and reliability
One of the worst GX years.
One of the Lexus GX years to avoid. All GX years
52 owner complaints, most about power train. 2 recalls.
Should I buy a 2003 GX?The 2003 Lexus GX has 52 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and suspension.
Safety record for the 2003 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2003 Lexus GX vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other GX years only. How we score it
Is 2003 a good year for the GX?
Across the 24 GX model years we track, complaint volume runs from 1 (2009) to 85 (2004). With 52 complaints, the 2003 GX sits above the model's median of 13.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2003 GX
equipment:other:labels
Campaign 03V031000CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF PART 567, "CERTIFICATION." THE INCORRECT GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING (GVWR) DATA WAS PRINTED ON THE CERTIFICATION REGULATION LABEL. THE GVWR IS INCORRECTLY REFLECTED ON THE LABEL AS 6,100 LBS. THE CORRECT GVWR SHOULD BE 6,000 LBS.
seats:mid/rear assembly
Campaign 03V088000ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE LEXUS LINK SYSTEM, IT MAY BE DIFFICULT TO LOCK ONE OF THE TWO LATCHES ON THE BOTTOM OF THE MIDDLE ROW LEFT REAR SEAT (LARGER SIDE OF THE BENCH SEAT DIRECTLY BEHIND THE DRIVER). DUE TO THE THICKNESS OF THE LEXUS LINK SYSTEM STORAGE CASE, THE STOPPER ON THE BOTTOM OF THE SEAT IS SLIGHTLY ELEVATED. THIS ELEVATED POSITION MISALIGNS THE LATCH TO THE STRIKER.
What owners say across generations
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.
Owner insights cover all generations of the GX. See the full GX owner picture and every model year.
Other GX model years
Compare every GX year side by side to see how 2003 ranks against the rest.
Compare the GX against its rivals
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