2020 Lexus GX: What to check before buying

Only 4 owner complaints are on file with NHTSA for this car, so this sheet is short. Problems reported on other GX years with the same design are listed below the checklist.

2020

Owner complaints: 4
Recalls: 0
Crashes reported: 1
Reliability: Excellent; 81/100 on Auto Reliability Index

Your inspection sheet

Tick items off on your phone at the car, or print it. Ticks stay on this device.

0/4 checked

Walk-around and cabin

Engine off, key in hand0/3

01Inspect sunroof for any signs of stress or damage.
02Check HVAC system for proper function and ensure windows do not fog up.
03Verify electronic systems for proper operation, especially collision avoidance features.

Test drive

At least 20 minutes, with some highway0/1

04Test brakes for proper stopping power; ensure pedal does not go to the floor.

These checks are specific to this model year. For tires, body panels, fluids, and the other basics every used car needs, use the general inspection guide.

Reported on other GX years with the same design

Few owners have reported problems with this year yet. These years share the 2020's design and most of its parts, so their problems are the ones to look for on this car too.

2019 GX

8 owner complaints

Fuel system 2

Worth adding to your 2020 checks

Drive steadily above 50 mph on a highway and watch for stalling, sudden power loss, or warning lights.
Check federal recall records for this VIN and confirm a dealer has completed any open recalls.
Ask for service records and look for stalling complaints or fuel system work.

Open the 2019 checklist

2022 GX

7 owner complaints

Brakes 3
Electrical 2

Worth adding to your 2020 checks

Hold the brake at a full stop for a minute and confirm the pedal stays firm and the SUV does not creep.
Ask the seller whether the brake pedal has ever sunk at stops, and request any dealer records for brake complaints.
Run a hand along the back edge of the parking brake pedal and check for sharp metal above the left footrest.

Open the 2022 checklist

2018 GX

8 owner complaints

Suspension 2

Worth adding to your 2020 checks

Park on level ground and compare ride height left side versus right side, front and rear.
Fill the fuel tank, then check again whether the vehicle sits lower on the left.
After the test drive, shut off the engine and listen at the rear for hissing.

Open the 2018 checklist

Which GX is it?

EPA figures for each version of the 2020 Lexus GX. Use them to confirm you are looking at the version that was advertised, and as a yardstick on the test drive.

Version	Drive	EPA rating
4.6L 8-cyl	4WD	16 mpg

Reset the trip computer at the start of the drive. A GX that averages well under the EPA 16 mpg combined on a mixed route may have an engine or tire problem.

Check the odometer against these mileages

Owners report these failures starting around the mileages below. A car inside one of these ranges deserves a closer look at that part, or records showing it was already fixed.