Hey all! Looking at an 05 gx470 and before I pull the trigger figured I would check with you all about known issues. Have a 3rd gen 4Runner that this will join as part of our fleet, lol. I'm pretty good with all the maintenance and plan to put new timing belt in it asap if I buy.
193 k on it. Belt last done at 110k.
I don't see any leaks. Drove it about 50 miles today and didn't notice any issues.
What should I plan on preventive wise? Like on the 4Runner ball joints are an issue. Looking for similar advice and other known issues I should check before I buy. Thanks !
Matt
Not much, only a few minor annoyances. One thing I would do is have the transmission fluid exchanged asap. They claimed it's a lifetime fluid, and I could go into a long explanation of why they call it that and why they are so wrong... Bottom line it needs to be changed out at the intervals of the timing belt for optimal performance. Sooner if you tow with it of drive it hard. Other than that they are very trouble free rigs.
Check the dashboard over carefully for any cracks or gewy residue, they are under a service campaign to be replaced, but it needs to be into the dealer and added to the list before may(?) 1st 2017, after that you are on your own.
Most of us prefer non navigation rigs as.the nav system isn't upgradable, as it is also the stereo and HVAC controls all in one. And let's be honest your cell phone will have a better and faster navigation than the 2002 technology of the nav program.
The center diff lock has been known to cause issues and get stuck in the locked position, this is from lack of use. Using it two to three times a year should be enough to keep it in operation.
Suspension upgrades are basically the same as anything for the FJ Cruiser or 4th gen 4runners (120chassis), but the rear of the GX is air suspension(known to fail and can be costly to replace) and thus will need a coil spring conversion if you want to lift it. I can get you a great deal on that, as well as anything else suspension and armor related as I work for Metaltech4x4.
The only other thing I can think of is the 05 newer rigs have the secondary air pump that has been known to cause issues and throw CELs. That can easily be disabled and bypassed for relatively low costs especially considering the cost of replacing it with new OE parts.
For what it's worth I love my GX, and am so happy I bought one. I like it more than my 4runner for everything but the more aggressive/intense off-roading.
