Lexus GX J150
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Generations
Engine Overview
The Lexus GX J150 is available with one engine variant at 305 hp.
The 1UR-FE 4.6L V8 is a 500k-km engine with proper maintenance. Known issues: valley plate coolant leak (~$1,500), valve cover seals letting oil onto spark plugs, water pump replacement at 100k miles. No engine in this class is more long-lived.
- !! Coolant Valley Plate Gasket Leak from 120,000 km
The coolant passage between the cylinder heads passes through a valley plate gasket that degrades over time. Coolant leaks internally or externally around 75,000-80,000 miles. Repair requires intake manifold removal and averages $1,500-$1,600 at independent shops. A well-known and expected maintenance item on the 1UR-FE.
Symptoms: Coolant loss with no visible external leak, coolant smell from engine bay, coolant drip from center of engine - !! Secondary Air Injection Pump Failure (Service Campaign JLG) from 80,000 km
Moisture degrades the air injection pump filter in the emissions system. Service Campaign JLG covers 2010-2013 GX 460 models at no charge with no mileage or year limits. Lexus dealers replace the pump filter, switching valves, and pump if damaged. California requires campaign completion for vehicle registration renewal.
Symptoms: Check engine light (P02445), 4LO flash, TRAC OFF warning lights, emissions test failure - !! Water Pump Failure from 100,000 km
The 1UR-FE water pump has a documented lifespan of approximately 60,000-100,000 miles. Premature failure can occur as early as 38,000 miles in some cases. Replacement is moderately labor-intensive but straightforward. A proactive replacement at 60,000-80,000 miles is recommended by experienced shops.
Symptoms: Coolant leak from pump, overheating, coolant in drive belt area, whining from front of engine
+ 1 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| KDSS Actuator and Accumulator Leak Corrosion on the KDSS accumulator below the driver seat causes pressure loss. Repair extremely expensive as lines and accumulator often need joint replacement. Symptoms: KDSS warning light after 5 minutes of driving, clunking over small bumps, vehicle leans approximately 1.5 inches, reduced cornering stability from 150,000 km | High | |
| Lower Ball Joint and Control Arm Wear Lower control arm bushings become dry-rotted, ball joints lose grease. Steering shake at ~55 mph and uneven tire wear. Symptoms: Steering shake around 55 mph, uneven tire wear, play when rocking wheel from 160,000 km | High |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 15 weaknesses have been documented for the Lexus GX J150 (2010–2023) — 4 engine-related and 11 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Suspension, Cooling, Gearbox, Rust.
GX (1UR-FE, 2010–2023) — Be Careful: Coolant Valley Plate Gasket Leak, Secondary Air Injection Pump Failure (Service Campaign JLG), Water Pump Failure. Power: 301 PS.
What to watch out for with the Lexus GX? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Lexus GX J150 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Lexus GX J150? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Lexus GX J150 engine is the most fun? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee