Last updated: 2026-04-20

2018 Lexus GX
RELIABILITY SCORE: 77/100 (GOOD)

2018 Lexus GX Reliability Report

The 2018 Lexus GX scores 77/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 8 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

2

Complaints

8

Complaint Rate

3per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$551

Annual Fuel Cost

$4,300

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity73/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs80/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact80/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity76/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • SUSPENSION (2)
  • AIR BAGS (1)
  • POWER TRAIN (1)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Refresh

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.

2010: Second generation (J150) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2014: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2018: This Model Year

2018 is 4 years after the first facelift refresh.

2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2018 Lexus GX?

At 77/100, the 2018 Lexus GX lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2018 is 4 years after the first facelift refresh.

Owners log 8 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to suspension (2). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

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

LOW RISK
  • 2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • SUSPENSION (2)
  • AIR BAGS (1)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

2

recalls on record

The 2018 Lexus GX carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

3

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 26

LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

2

Crashes

0

Fires

3

Injuries

0

Deaths

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.

17V8310002017-12-20

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.

20V6820002020-11-04

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.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2018 Lexus GX? Check its history first

Every 2018 Lexus GX has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2018 Lexus GX NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 0.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Restraint (Not Available)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Torso (Rear Seat)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Lexus GXRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5

Based 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.

Common repair costs and price estimates
RepairEstimated 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.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

16 MPG

Running cost: $4,850/yr

Fuel + repair

15 city / 18 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
GX 460 4.6L 8-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)151816$4,300

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Lexus GX.

  • 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

2018 Lexus GX Common Problems by Component

8 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

2
1
1
1
1
1
1
SUSPENSION (2)AIR BAGS (1)POWER TRAIN (1)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1)WHEELS (1)SERVICE BRAKES (1)STEERING (1)

SUSPENSION

2 complaints

Owners 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.

2 complaints total

AIR BAGS

1 complaintSafety-related
2020-06-12Crash reported2 injuries

TL* 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 complaint
2020-01-01

THERE 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 complaint
2025-05-01

I 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 complaint
2018-08-07

CAR BE GOOD. JUST NEED FULL GAS 2 YEAR.

SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaintSafety-related
2018-04-11Crash reported1 injury

I 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 complaint
2018-05-28

I 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

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Lexus GX Years to Buy

The best Lexus GX year is 2026 with a reliability score of 84/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2023 (81/100) and 2022 (81/100).

Lexus GX Years to Avoid

No Lexus GX years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Lexus GX maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

Lexus GX Reliability Score Trend

Lexus GX reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 80/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Lexus GX reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201877/100Good
201978/100Good
202081/100Excellent
202180/100Excellent
202281/100Excellent
202381/100Excellent
202477/100Good
202578/100Good
202684/100Excellent

Lexus GX Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202684/100+6Excellent00
202578/100+1Good17
202477/100-4Good213
202381/1000Excellent05
202281/100+1Excellent07
202180/100-1Excellent01
202081/100+3Excellent04
201978/100+1Good18
2018(selected)77/100Good28

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2018 Lexus GX reliable?
The 2018 Lexus GX has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 77/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 8 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Lexus GX?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 Lexus GX include: SUSPENSION (2 complaints), AIR BAGS (1 complaints), POWER TRAIN (1 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1 complaints), WHEELS (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2018 Lexus GX have?
The 2018 Lexus GX has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2018 Lexus GX expensive to maintain?
The 2018 Lexus GX should have average maintenance costs for its class. With a reliability score of 77/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2018 Lexus GX without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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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