What are the most common Lexus LX problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,600+ owner reports, the 2009-2009 Lexus LX has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: AHC (Active Height Control) Suspension Failure, Center Differential Lock Actuator Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Lexus LX reliable?

The 2009-2009 Lexus LX has 2 known issues documented across 2,600+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: AHC (Active Height Control) Suspension Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Lexus LX problems?

Repair costs for known Lexus LX issues range from $500 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, AHC (Active Height Control) Suspension Failure, typically costs $2,000-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

2009 Lexus LX Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2009 Lexus LX Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know | Au7o

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Community Reported

1,800 owners

On the 2008-2021 Lexus LX 5.7L 3UR-FE, the Active Height Control hydraulic suspension on the LX570 develops leaks in the height control actuators, accumulator, and hydraulic lines. The system uses hydraulic fluid under high pressure to adjust ride height, and seals deteriorate over time causing fluid loss. A complete system failure leaves the vehicle stuck at one height setting and triggers warning lights.

This issue also affects: Lexus LS, Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Murano

Common Symptoms

Vehicle sits lower than normal on one or more corners
AHC warning light illuminated
Height control switch no longer adjusts ride height
Hydraulic fluid leak visible under vehicle
Ride becomes harsh or bouncy

How to Fix

Replace failed AHC components — actuators, accumulator, or hydraulic lines as needed. A complete AHC overhaul runs $3,000-$6,000 at the dealer. Alternatively, convert to a conventional spring suspension using aftermarket kits that eliminate all hydraulic components.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 1,800+ owners who fixed this issue

TipBudget for AHC maintenance on any LX570 over 80,000 miles. The system is shared with the Toyota Land Cruiser 200, so LC forums have extensive repair documentation that applies directly.

Typical repair cost:$2,000 - $6,000

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Community Reported

High Confidence1,800 reportsLast reported by owners Jan 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

Community Reported

800 owners

On the 2008-2015 Lexus LX 5.7L 3UR-FE, the center differential lock actuator on the LX570 transfer case fails due to internal motor degradation and moisture intrusion. The actuator is responsible for engaging the center diff lock for off-road use, and when it fails, the lock cannot be engaged. This is the same basic design used on the Toyota Land Cruiser 200.

This issue also affects: Toyota Sequoia

Common Symptoms

Center diff lock will not engage when button is pressed
Center diff lock indicator light flashes and does not stay on
Clicking noise from transfer case area
Multi-terrain select warning light

How to Fix

Replace the center differential lock actuator motor assembly on the transfer case. The OEM Toyota part is recommended. After installation, perform a system initialization using a Toyota/Lexus diagnostic scanner. Test engagement on a loose surface in a straight line.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 800+ owners who fixed this issue

TipEngage the center diff lock at least once a month to prevent the actuator from seizing due to inactivity. Even a 30-second engagement in a parking lot keeps the mechanism exercised.

Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,200

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800+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence800 reportsLast reported by owners Sep 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

2009 Lexus LX Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 2 Known Issues

2008-2021 Lexus LX: AHC (Active Height Control) Suspension Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2008-2015 Lexus LX: Center Differential Lock Actuator Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Lexus Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Lexus LX problems?

Is the Lexus LX reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Lexus LX problems?

What is the 2008-2021 Lexus LX AHC (Active Height Control) Suspension Failure?

What is the 2008-2015 Lexus LX Center Differential Lock Actuator Failure?