2004 Lexus LX470

The 2004 Lexus LX470 sits near the apex of this generation's complaint and recall activity, recording 18 complaints and 3 recalls — nearly identical to 2003 (21 complaints, 3 recalls) and consistent with the elevated recall plateau that persisted through 2006. This marks a clear shift from the generation's earlier years (1998–2002), which averaged just 1 recall per year and generally lower complaint counts, suggesting mid-cycle components or supplier changes introduced new vulnerabilities the data does not specifically attribute. TSBs rose steadily across the generation, reaching 97 in 2004 versus 68 in 1998, indicating accumulating technical service refinements that benefit later buyers. The 2004's top complaint areas — Suspension (3), Steering (2), Fuel/Propulsion (2), and Air Bags (2) — along with one fire complaint and zero crash complaints, point to mechanical and system-level concerns rather than safety-critical failure patterns. While 2004 is not the worst year in the arc (2003 holds that distinction for complaints), it falls squarely within the generation's most active problem window before complaints declined to 9 in 2005 and 4 in 2007. **Takeaway:** The 2004 is a middle-of-the-pack year in a problematic stretch of the generation; it is acceptable if priced right and thoroughly inspected on suspension and fuel systems, but a 2005 or later model offers a measurably cleaner federal record for modestly more money.