Lexus GX J300
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Generations
Engine Overview
The Lexus GX J300 is available with one engine variant at 354 hp.
3.5L twin-turbo V6 — Toyota's replacement for the 1UR-FE and 3UR-FE V8 engines. The main bearing recall (machining debris from factory) affects 2022-2024 models across Tundra, LX, and GX 550. Approximately 127,000 vehicles recalled. Engine knocking, rough running, and complete failure documented at mileages as low as 5,000 miles. Toyota replaces engines under recall. Long-term reliability data still limited. The engine makes strong power but early production quality control was inadequate.
- !! Main Bearing Failure From Manufacturing Debris (Recall)
Machining debris left inside the engine during production accumulates on bearings and obstructs oil passages, causing bearing starvation and catastrophic engine failure. Toyota recalled approximately 127,000 vehicles (Tundra, LX 600, GX 550 from 2022-2024). Remedy is complete engine replacement at no charge. Failures documented at mileages as low as 5,000 miles.
Symptoms: Engine knocking, rough running, failure to start, check engine light, sudden power loss, complete engine seizure - !! Intake Valve Carbon Buildup from 100,000 km
Direct injection design allows oil vapors to deposit carbon on intake valves over time. The twin-turbo setup increases crankcase pressure which accelerates buildup. Walnut blasting is the standard remediation. Expected to become a maintenance item past 60,000-80,000 miles.
Symptoms: Reduced fuel efficiency, rough idle, engine misfire codes, hesitation on acceleration - !! Turbocharger Oil Seal Leak
The twin turbochargers can develop oil seal leaks over time from heat cycling and normal wear. Oil leaks into the exhaust side produce blue smoke; intake-side leaks cause oil consumption. The dual-turbo design doubles the potential failure points. Heat management is critical — short trips without full warm-up accelerate seal degradation.
Symptoms: Blue or white smoke from exhaust, oil consumption increase, burnt oil smell, oil residue near turbo housing
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| V35A-FTS Engine Bearing Recall Machining debris from factory left in the engine block causes main bearing damage. Recall expanded to include 2024 GX 550. Approximately 127,000 vehicles affected across Toyota/Lexus models. Toyota replaces engines under recall at no charge. Symptoms include knocking, rough running, and complete engine failure at mileages as low as 5,000 miles. Symptoms: Engine knocking, rough running, failure to start, loss of power while driving, metal debris in oil | Low | |
| Twin-Turbo V6 Refinement vs. V8 The V35A-FTS twin-turbo V6 is more powerful than the outgoing V8 but lacks the smooth, linear character. Some owners prefer the 1UR-FE V8 personality. Not a defect — a subjective character difference. Symptoms: Turbo lag off the line, less linear power delivery, different exhaust note | Low |
Top Reported Issues
Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 11 weaknesses have been documented for the Lexus GX J300 (2024–2025) — 3 engine-related and 8 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Other, Electronics, Suspension, Body. Considered reliable: V35A-FTS (3.5L Twin-Turbo V6).
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 J300 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Lexus GX J300? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Lexus GX J300 engine is the most reliable? +
Which Lexus GX J300 engine is the most fun? +
Is the Lexus GX J300 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Lexus GX J300? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee