Last updated: 2026-03-04
2018 Lexus GX Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2018 Lexus GX scores 77/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 8 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2018 is 4 years after the first facelift refresh.
Recalls
2
Complaints
8
Complaint Rate
3
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$551
Major Repair Risk
N/A
NHTSA Rating
N/A
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
2 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 is 4 years after the first facelift refresh.
- Year 9 in the Second generation (J150) (2010–2023).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 2nd generation GX (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
Second generation (J150)
Should You Buy the 2018 Lexus GX?
The 2018 Lexus GX scores 77/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2018 is 4 years after the first facelift refresh.
With 8 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to suspension (2). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2019 Lexus GX, which scored 1 points higher.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Low recall count
- Below-average complaint rate for SUV
- Well-established generation
Cons
- SUSPENSION: Owners of the 2018 Lexus GX frequently report issues related to the suspension... (2 complaints)
Compare 2018 Lexus GX With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- SUSPENSION (2)
- AIR BAGS (1)
- POWER TRAIN (1)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1)
- WHEELS (1)
- SERVICE BRAKES (1)
- STEERING (1)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2018 Lexus GX has 2 recalls on record. This is a low count. Recalls are manufacturer-initiated fixes for safety or compliance issues and are repaired at no cost to the owner at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
3
per 10k soldSegment avg: 23.5
Safety Incidents
Crashes
2
Fires
0
Injuries
3
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Lexus GX Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Lexus GX. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
EQUIPMENT
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Toyota 4Runner and Tundra, 2018 Toyota Highlander, RAV4 and Lexus GX460 and 2017 Toyota Sienna and Tacoma vehicles. These vehicles may have incorrect load carrying capacity modification labels. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence
An incorrect load information label can result in the operator overloading the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Toyota will notify owners and provide them with corrected labels, free of charge. The recall began on January 23, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are H0Z for Toyota vehicles, and HLF for Lexus vehicles.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Consequence
If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.
2018 Lexus GX NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
Lexus GX Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$551
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2018 Lexus GX Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Brake Hose Replacement | $227 – $291 |
| Blower Motor Replacement | $442 – $478 |
| Drive Axle Assembly Leak Inspection | $76 – $112 |
| AC Compressor Clutch Replacement | $1,424 – $1,566 |
| Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement | $358 – $466 |
| Axle Shaft Seal Replacement | $431 – $618 |
| Liftgate Glass Support Strut Replacement | $188 – $217 |
| Heater Hose Replacement | $417 – $517 |
| Parking Brake Shoe Replacement | $477 – $619 |
| Air Conditioning Receiver Drier Assembly Replacement | $544 – $852 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
When Buying a Used 2018 Lexus GX
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Inspect suspension for leaning or uneven height, especially on the left side
- Check for hissing sounds from the rear after turning off the vehicle
- Test drive to detect any thud in the drivetrain during acceleration
- Verify sunroof drains for clogs or leaks to prevent water intrusion
- Ensure airbag system functionality, especially after any collision
- Test brakes thoroughly for proper engagement and response
Check Any 2018 Lexus GX's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2018 GX in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Lexus GX with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2018 Lexus GX Common Problems by Component
8 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
SUSPENSION
2 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Lexus GX frequently report issues related to the suspension system. Common symptoms include a persistent noise that the dealership reportedly cannot diagnose, and the vehicle sitting visibly lower on the left side both during driving and when at rest. Some owners also mention a hissing sound from the rear of the vehicle after it is turned off. These issues are often noted soon after purchase, with one owner experiencing the problem on the day of acquisition. While no direct safety implications such as crashes or loss of control are reported, the recurring nature of these complaints suggests potential inconvenience for owners.
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety-relatedTL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2018 LEXUS GX460. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 45 MPH SHE FELL ASLEEP BEHIND THE WHEEL DUE TO A MEDICAL CONDITION AND SIDE SWIPED TWO PARKED VEHICLES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE POLICE CAME TO THE SCENE AND A REPORT WAS TAKEN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE SUSTAINED BRUISING FROM THE SEAT BELT AND INJURIES TO HER RIGHT HAND HOWEVER, HER GRANDSON WHOM WAS SEATED IN THE REAR PASSENGER SEAT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HIS LEG AND KNEE, AND A CUT LIP. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT MOST OF THE DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE WAS ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW LOT AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 31,000.
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintTHERE IS A THUD THAT OCCURS IN THE DRIVE TRAIN WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A STOP, OR ACCELERATING FROM A ROLL. THE DEALER SAID ITS NORMAL, BUT IT CANNOT BE NORMAL. IT IS A LITERAL THUD. I HAVE HEARD THIS THUD COUNTLESS TIMES OVER THE LAST YEAR SINCE WE BOUGHT THE CAR. I HAVE ALSO READ ON MANY FORUMS THAT OTHER PEOPLE HAVE THIS SAME ISSUE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaintI am writing to demand a recall for a widespread and well-documented defect involving the sunroof drain lines in the Lexus GX460. Owners across multiple model years report that these drains frequently clog, disconnect, or deteriorate, resulting in severe water intrusion into the cabin. This defect is more than an inconvenience. Water intrusion routinely damages the headliner, carpets, and—most concerning—the electrical systems routed under the dash and along the floorboards. Owners have documented failures including: Electrical shorts in junction boxes and harnesses near the driver footwell. Burnt circuits in side mirrors and modules after water exposure. Malfunctioning sensors, warning lights, and throttle response issues directly linked to water entry. Mold growth and corrosion under the dash from standing water. Supporting Evidence from Owners & Forums: GX460 owners have documented water intrusion from clogged drains causing shorts in wiring harnesses and electrical boards. In one case, water damage burned side mirror circuits and caused multiple dashboard warnings. (Source: JustAnswer Lexus mechanic) On ClubLexus forums, GX owners describe water pooling in the driver’s footwell after rain, traced to faulty sunroof drains. Reports include electrical shorts in junction boxes near the brake pedal caused by clogged or misrouted drains. Reddit and Facebook discussions highlight mold growth, electrical malfunctions, and expensive repairs after water bypassed drainage and entered beneath the dash. Safety Concerns: While Lexus may view water leaks as cosmetic, the resulting electrical failures compromise critical safety systems. Airbags, sensors, warning lights, and throttle response have all been reported as affected. These failures present clear safety hazards for drivers and passengers. Request for Action: Lexus should issue a recall to correct the defective sunroof drainage design in GX460 models, and cover all related repairs and reimburse owners.
WHEELS (1 complaints)
WHEELS
1 complaintCAR BE GOOD. JUST NEED FULL GAS 2 YEAR.
SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaintSafety-relatedI AM A BOONE NC POLICE OFFICER THAT INVESTIGATED A CRASH IN WHICH THE DRIVER AND EVIDENCE SUGGESTS THE FOLLOWING: THE DRIVER PRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE BRAKING SYSTEM FAILED TO ENGAGE AND THE ACCELERATOR WENT TO 100%. THE LEXUS HIT EIGHT OTHER VEHICLES BEFORE TURNING ONTO ITS SIDE. THE DRIVER WAS SURE THAT HE WAS PRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL ( HE IS ALSO AN AIRPLANE PILOT). OUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER DID AN ARTICLE ABOUT THE CRASH AND WAS CONTACTED BY ANOTHER LEXUS SUV OWNER. THE OTHER LEXUS OWNER STATED THAT THE SAME THING HAPPENED TO HER IN THE LOWES HARDWARE PARKING LOT IN WYTHEVILLE VA. ONE MAY ASSUME THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE COMPUTER SYSTEM IN THE 2018 LEXUS SUV. IF I KNOW OF TWO INCIDENTS OF THIS NATURE, I WONDER HOW MANY INSTANCES THERE IS NATIONWIDE.
STEERING (1 complaints)
STEERING
1 complaintI BOUGHT THE CAR LAST MOMTH (MAY APRIL 2018), NOW THE MILEAGE IS JUST 490, AND THE CAR IS ALREADY LEANING TO THE RIGHT PASSENGER SIDE. THE FIRST ISSUE WITH THE CAR WAS IT WAS PULLING TO THE RIGHT WHEN YOU DRIVE IT AT A SPEED OF 30 - 40 MILES PER HOUR. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP WESTSIDE LEXUS HOUSTON. AND THEY DID FIX IT. BUT THE LEANING TO THE RIGHT SIDE WAS NOT FIXED. THE SERVICE PERSONNEL SAID THAT THIS IS NORMAL FOR THE CAR TO LEAN, AND I TOLD THEM THAT WHEN THE CAR IS IN MOTION YOU CAN EVEN TELL AND FEEL THAT IT IS LEANING. THEY SAID THAT IT IS NORMAL, THIS IS PART OF THE KDSS SYSTEM AND THERE IS NOTHING TO BE WORRIED ABOUT. I WAS SO DISAPPOINTED BECAUSE MY TWO KIDS GET TO RIDE THIS CAR, MY FAMILY. AND I KNOW FOR A FACT THAT THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. I HAVE DONE SOME RESEARCH, AND FOR YEARS SINCE THE PREVIOUS MODEL OF GX 460 THEY SAID ITS NORMAL EVEN IF ITS NOT NORMAL.. THIS IS NOT A GOOD QUALITY CAR MADE FOR FAMILY. I WASTED MY HARD EARNED $56,000. I BOUGHT THIS CAR BRAND NEW WITH $3000 DOWNPAYMENT. I SHOULD HAVE JUST KEPT THE $3000, NOW I AM PLANNING TO GET THIS REPAIR FROM MY OWN POCKET SINCE THEY WONT FIX IT.
Best & Worst Lexus GX Years
Best Lexus GX Years to Buy
The best Lexus GX year is 2023 with a reliability score of 81/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2022 (81/100) and 2020 (81/100).
Lexus GX Years to Avoid
No Lexus GX years are statistical outliers in our data — all years score consistently.
See full Lexus GX years-to-avoid analysis →Lexus GX Reliability Score Trend
Lexus GX reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 79/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 80/100 | Excellent |
| 2022 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 78/100 | Good |
Lexus GX Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Lexus GX reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Lexus GX?
How many recalls does the 2018 Lexus GX have?
Is the 2018 Lexus GX expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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