Lexus GX 460 Transmission Problems: Any Serious Issues on the Horizon?

The Lexus GX 460 has been on the market since 2010, and while it has generally received positive reviews, there have been a few complaints about its transmission. In particular, some drivers have reported issues with the transmission shifting abruptly or harshly, and others have complained about the transmission slipping or becoming sluggish.

A760F transmission highlights

  • Average lifespan:230,000-260,000 miles
  • Reliability Score:High
  • Prone to minor issues:Seldom
  • Price for repair after failure:$1,500-$2,000
  • Price for replacement:$4,500-$6,000
  • Availability of parts:Average
  • Common problems: Torque converter friction plates wear, fast fluid contamination, jerking when shifting, overheating problems.

 

Lexus GX460 transmission issues

What are the Lexus GX 460 transmission problems that have been reported so far?

  • Switching from reverse gear to drive problem

Most transmission problems are reported by owners of older models of the Lexus GX 460. For instance, some owners of Lexus GX 460 2010 reported that after switching from reverse gear to drive, the car might stall. Several owners have contacted Lexus customer service to report the same problem.

In response, Lexus said that this is normal behavior and advised owners to shift to neutral and then back to drive if the car stalls or not to apply the gas pedal too quickly.

  • Transmission shifting abruptly or harshly

Another common transmission problem reported for the Lexus GX 460 is that the transmission shifts abruptly or harshly. This can be a nuisance when driving, and it can also lead to increased wear and tear on the transmission.

This problem is also relatively common in older models, and owners report getting it fixed by contacting Lexus customer support. The issue was resolved by ECM update in some cases, while others required the replacement of transmission fluid.

  • Lexus GX 460 transmission slipping

Some drivers have also complained about the transmission slipping or becoming sluggish. This can be especially frustrating when trying to accelerate from a stop or when driving up a hill. In most cases, this problem was also resolved by ECM update.

  • Shifter Squeak

One of the most unusual transmission problems with the Lexus GX 460 is a shifter squeak. This problem is quite rare, and it was reported by owners of Lexus GX 460 2015-2016. However, it still can be very annoying. The good news is that this issue can usually be fixed by simply replacing the transmission position sensor.

  • Transmission fluid leaks

This problem is also not common; however, some drivers have reported a transmission fluid leak. This can be a serious problem if not fixed, as it can lead to transmission failure. In most cases, Lexus GX 460 fluid leak is caused by a broken seal or gasket. The loosening of the filler tube is another common cause of this problem.

What milage do transmission problems usually occur at?

Most drivers have reported having Lexus GX 460 transmission issues at around 100K miles or less. In some cases, the problem may occur sooner, while in others, it may not occur until the car has been driven for much longer.

Are there any serious issues on the horizon for this vehicle model?

At this point, it does not appear that there are any serious issues with the Lexus GX 460 transmission. While there have been a few reports of problems, they have generally been isolated incidents that have been easily resolved.

If you are experiencing Lexus GX 460 transmission problems, the best course of action is to take your Lexus to a qualified mechanic or dealership service center for diagnosis and repair. In most cases, these transmission problems can be fixed with a simple software update or by making a few adjustments to the way the vehicle is driven.

Most transmission problems can be resolved just by replacing the transmission fluid or by making an ECM update.

How much will it cost to repair a faulty transmission on a Lexus GX 460 - and is it worth doing so if the car is still under warranty?

The Lexus GX 460 transmission cost of repairs will be covered by the warranty if your car is still new, so there is no need to worry about incurring any out-of-pocket expenses.

If the car is no longer under warranty, the cost of repairs will vary depending on the extent of the Lexus GX 460 transmission damage and whether or not the transmission needs to be completely replaced.

In most cases, it is worth repairing a faulty transmission, as this will help to restore the car's value and prolong its lifespan, especially if the repair cost is not quite expensive. However, if the damage to your Lexus transmission is extensive or the transmission needs to be completely replaced, the cost of Lexus GX 460 transmission repairs may exceed the value of the car and can cost you $5,000 or even more. In this case, it may be better to sell the car as-is or scrap it for parts.

How to prevent and avoid Lexus GX 460 transmission problems?

You can prevent transmission problems by following simple rules. Change your transmission fluid every 40,000 miles and use OEM ATF only! If you have to drive in dusty conditions, make sure to change your filter more frequently than recommended. Also, avoid hard shifting and driving at high speeds for long periods of time. These habits will decrease the life expectancy of your transmission. If you have to tow, use the proper gear and never exceed the maximum towing capacity of your vehicle.

Also, you should avoid buying a used Lexus GX 460 that has a questionable service history to avoid or at least minimize potential transmission problems.

Another recommendation is to avoid driving the brakes. In other words, do not keep your foot on the brake pedal while driving for a long time. Doing this will put unnecessary strain on the transmission and can lead to transmission problems.

Is there anything else that drivers should know about the Lexus GX 460 when it comes to transmissions - such as potential warning signs that something may be wrong)?

If you have any of the following signs, it is likely that your Lexus GX 460 experiences transmission-related problems.

  • The transmission shifts abruptly or harshly
  • The transmission slips or becomes sluggish
  • The car seems to be having trouble accelerating from a stop
  • There is a grinding or humming noise coming from the transmission
  • The transmission fluid is low or dirty
  • The check engine light is on

Ignoring these warning signs could lead to further damage to the transmission, which could be costly to repair.

What should you do if your Lexus GX 460 experiences transmission problems - take it to the dealership or try to fix it yourself?

Don't try to fix transmission problems by yourself. Unless you are a qualified mechanic, it is best to take your Lexus to the dealership or a qualified service center for diagnosis and repair. Trying to fix transmission problems yourself could void your warranty or cause further damage, which could be costly to repair.

At the dealership, the mechanic will hook up a computer to the car to check for error codes or will examine your transmission visually. Once they have diagnosed your Lexus GX 460 transmission problem, they will be able to give you an estimate for the repair cost.

Bottom Line

Lexus GX 460 is a great and reliable vehicle, but like any other car, it can experience transmission problems.

If your Lexus GX 460 is still under warranty, transmission repairs will be covered, and you won't have to pay anything out-of-pocket. If your car is no longer under warranty, the cost of repairs will vary depending on the extent of the damage and whether or not the transmission needs to be completely replaced.

If the car is no longer under warranty, the cost of repairs will vary depending on the extent of the damage and whether or not the transmission needs to be completely replaced. In most cases, you may be required to replace the fluid, which will cost $200 only; however, in others, you may be required to replace the whole transmission, and the cost can be as high as $5,000 or even more.

Still, you shouldn't be worried much about Lexus GX 460 transmission problems as they are not very common. With proper care and maintenance, your Lexus GX 460 transmission should last for many years without any major issues.

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CarAraC Research

About the authors

The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering

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