Checks, in order
- Battery and cables12.4 V or more at rest, clean terminals and grounds. A corroded terminal gives the same click.easy $ · under about $50
- PatternClick, then crank on the second or third try, getting worse over weeks, is the solenoid contacts. A single click every time with a good battery is the starter or a cable.easy $ · under about $50
- Contacts or starterThe Denso contact and plunger kit is inexpensive, but the starter lives under the intake manifold on the 2UZ-FE, so most owners replace the whole starter while it is out. Plan on about three hours.hard $$ · about $50 to $500
Applies to: Lexus GX 470, 2003 to 2009, with the 4.7L 2UZ-FE V8 (timing belt) and the A750F 5-speed automatic. Every US GX 470 has rear air suspension; KDSS was optional from 2004. It shares its chassis with the 4th gen 4Runner and 120 Series Prado, so many 4Runner parts and procedures apply.
Tools and parts for these checks
Links below are Amazon affiliate links: as an Amazon Associate, toyotadata earns from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Confirm fitment for your exact truck before you order.
| ITEM | USED FOR | BUY |
|---|---|---|
| Digital multimeter | Voltage, ground and continuity checks | Shop on Amazon |
| Battery load tester | Testing the battery under load before replacing parts | Shop on Amazon |
| Battery terminal cleaning brush | Cleaning corroded terminals and cable ends | Shop on Amazon |
More Lexus GX 470 problems
- Rear end sags overnight or leans, compressor runs long or never, suspension warning light (Steering & Suspension)
- Timing belt due or history unknown, coolant weep at the front of the engine (Engine)
- Ticking from the engine on cold start that fades as it warms (Engine)
- Rust on the frame, or play and a torn boot at the lower ball joints (Frame & Body)
- VSC TRAC and VSC OFF lights on, with or without a check engine light (Body & Electrical)
- Dashboard cracked, sticky or shiny and soft in the heat (Body & Electrical)
All 11 Lexus GX 470 symptoms in the interactive troubleshooter →
General guidance from owner experience. Confirm torque specs, fluid capacities and procedures in the factory service manual. Brakes, steering and anything structural: if in doubt, have a qualified shop inspect it before driving.