Thinking about buying a used Lexus LX (1998–2024) in New Zealand? We've documented 14 known faults for this model spanning engine, transmission, suspension, and fluid leaks. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
14
Documented faults
Critical
Most serious
$600–$3,500
Typical repair
4
Systems covered
Known Lexus LX faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
Early-build LX600 3.5L V35A-FTS twin-turbo V6 engines can retain machining debris from manufacturing that circulates in the oil, wearing the crankshaft main bearings and causing knock, rough running, no-start or a sudden stall with loss of drive. Toyota/Lexus issued a global safety recall covering the shared 300-series powertrain: US NHTSA campaign 24V381000 (Lexus internal 24LB04/24LA04) for ~102,000 Tundra and LX600 units, with a November 2025 expansion adding further 2022-2024 LX600 vehicles. In Australia the campaign covered 789 GX550/LX600 units built 2022-2024; the diesel LX500d is NOT affected. Remedy is a free engine short-block or full engine replacement at a Lexus dealer, so verifying whether the recall was performed is critical.
Symptoms to notice
Engine knocking or metallic rattle, especially on start-up or under load
Rough running or noticeable loss of power
Sudden stall or engine will not start
Metallic particles or contamination visible in engine oil
What to check
Run the VIN through Lexus for recall status and confirm whether the engine-debris recall (NHTSA 24V381000 / Lexus 24LB04) has been completed or is outstanding; on a low-km early build (roughly the first 20,000-40,000 km) listen for cold-start knock, check for a replaced/updated engine, and inspect oil condition and service history for any bearing-related work.
Where to look: Engine, crankshaft main bearings / lubrication system
Ask the seller
“Has the V35A engine-debris recall been carried out, and do you have the dealer paperwork?”
“Was the original engine replaced or is it the factory unit?”
“Have you ever heard knocking or had a stall or no-start event?”
“Is the full Lexus service history available showing oil changes on schedule?”
02Starter motor failure under the intake manifold
MinorOccasionalEngine $600–$1,800 to fix
The LX570/Tundra 5.7 V8 mounts the starter in the engine valley under the intake manifold, and when it fails the intake must come off to replace it, making an otherwise routine job labour-intensive and costly.
Symptoms to notice
Intermittent no-crank / click on start
Slow or hesitant cranking
Starter noise
No-start when hot
What to check
Test several hot and cold starts for reliable cranking, and ask if the starter has ever been replaced given the labour involved.
Where to look: Starter motor in the engine valley under the intake manifold
Ask the seller
“Has the starter ever failed or been replaced?”
“Any hesitation when starting hot?”
“Any intermittent no-crank?”
EngineCritical
EngineCritical
EngineCritical
TransmissionMajor
SuspensionMajor
TransmissionMajor
SuspensionMajor
EngineMajor
SuspensionMajor
EngineMajor
Fluid LeaksMajor
Fluid LeaksMinor
12 more documented faults on the Lexus LX
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 14 documented faults for the Lexus LX, the recurring problem areas are engine, transmission, and suspension. A Lexus LX with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Lexus LX?
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We've catalogued 14 known faults for the Lexus LX, covering engine, transmission, and suspension. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Lexus LX?
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Most single repairs on the Lexus LX fall between $600–$3,500 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 14 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Lexus LX?
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Yes. A Lexus LX inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.