Table 1 shows one common equipment related problems of the 2003 Lexus GX.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Equipment problems |
Structure problem. Went to the mechanic for a routine oil change. He said the frame is rotted, rusted away so bad he could stick his finger through the frame. They said it was unsafe, couldn’t even hoist it up on the lift. The body, exterior looks fine, no rust at all, but the frame is evidently rotted away. Faulty metal or treatment??.
Took my 2003 Gx470 to dealership for oil change and tire rotation. It has 128,000 miles on it. They advised after reviewing frame structure that the vehicle can no longer be put on a lift because the frame is crumbling and also advised vehicle is not safe to be driven. Took it to another dealership and a frame shop for their opinion. They were amazed how the body didn't have any rust yet the frame was totally falling apart. Frame shop also agreed only way to make it safe was total frame replacement. Following up with Lexus dealer on filing a claim with Lexus.
Frame is rotting from inside out, excessive corrosion. This is a known issue that was common to the early/mid 2000's Toyota tundra, tacoma, and 4runner, the latter of which shares frame components. Toyota, for whatever reason, covered the tundra and tacoma through recalls, but so far has not done a recall on the 4runner or Gx470.