There are 2 owner-reported air bags & restraints complaints for the 2018 Lexus GXin NHTSA's database. These are unverified consumer reports and may not reflect confirmed defects.
I am writing to demand a recall for a widespread and well-documented defect involving the sunroof drain lines in the Lexus GX460. Owners across multiple model years report that these drains frequently clog, disconnect, or deteriorate, resulting in severe water intrusion into the cabin. This defect is more than an inconvenience. Water intrusion routinely damages the headliner, carpets, and—most concerning—the electrical systems routed under the dash and along the floorboards. Owners have documented failures including: Electrical shorts in junction boxes and harnesses near the driver footwell. Burnt circuits in side mirrors and modules after water exposure. Malfunctioning sensors, warning lights, and throttle response issues directly linked to water entry. Mold growth and corrosion under the dash from standing water. Supporting Evidence from Owners & Forums: GX460 owners have documented water intrusion from clogged drains causing shorts in wiring harnesses and electrical boards. In one case, water damage burned side mirror circuits and caused multiple dashboard warnings. (Source: JustAnswer Lexus mechanic) On ClubLexus forums, GX owners describe water pooling in the driver’s footwell after rain, traced to faulty sunroof drains. Reports include electrical shorts in junction boxes near the brake pedal caused by clogged or misrouted drains. Reddit and Facebook discussions highlight mold growth, electrical malfunctions, and expensive repairs after water bypassed drainage and entered beneath the dash. Safety Concerns: While Lexus may view water leaks as cosmetic, the resulting electrical failures compromise critical safety systems. Airbags, sensors, warning lights, and throttle response have all been reported as affected. These failures present clear safety hazards for drivers and passengers. Request for Action: Lexus should issue a recall to correct the defective sunroof drainage design in GX460 models, and cover all related repairs and reimburse owners.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2018 LEXUS GX460. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 45 MPH SHE FELL ASLEEP BEHIND THE WHEEL DUE TO A MEDICAL CONDITION AND SIDE SWIPED TWO PARKED VEHICLES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE POLICE CAME TO THE SCENE AND A REPORT WAS TAKEN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE SUSTAINED BRUISING FROM THE SEAT BELT AND INJURIES TO HER RIGHT HAND HOWEVER, HER GRANDSON WHOM WAS SEATED IN THE REAR PASSENGER SEAT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HIS LEG AND KNEE, AND A CUT LIP. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT MOST OF THE DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE WAS ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW LOT AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 31,000.
Complaints are unverified consumer reports submitted to NHTSA. A high complaint count may reflect vehicle popularity, not defect severity. Data sourced from NHTSA public records.
Data synced from NHTSA on May 4, 2026