Lexus GS350 (2013-2020) Door Hinge Replacement Guide
Address a sagging, clicking, or hard-to-close door on your 2013-2020 Lexus GS350.
- A sagging door that is hard to close is the primary symptom of a worn door hinge on a GS350.
- This is an advanced repair; professional installation is recommended due to door weight and the need for precise alignment and painting.
- No recalls or widespread defects have been reported; hinge failure is typically due to normal wear and tear.
- Always check if the issue is the hinge or the less expensive 'door check' mechanism, which is a common point of failure.
Is it the Hinge or the Door Check?
Before replacing parts, it's important to know what has failed. Your GS350 has two main parts that control the door's movement:
- Door Hinges: Two heavy-duty, pivoting brackets (upper and lower) that are bolted to the car's body and the door. They carry the door's weight. Failure causes the door to sag.
- Door Check (or Door Stop): A flat metal arm that slides into the door. It stops the door from opening too wide and has detents to hold the door open at certain points. Failure of this part often causes popping or clicking sounds when opening the door, or the door may not stay open on its own.
Pro Tip: To check for hinge wear, open the door about halfway. Hold the bottom of the door and try to lift it up and down. If you feel significant play or see the door moving vertically at the hinge point, the hinge pins and bushings are likely worn. If the door sags but doesn't make noise, the hinges are the likely culprit. If it makes loud popping noises but doesn't sag, inspect the door check first.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step instructions for replacing a Lexus door check strap.Signs of a Failing Door Hinge
A worn door hinge is more than just an annoyance; it can damage the door, the latch mechanism, and the vehicle's body if ignored. Watch for these symptoms:
- Door Sagging: The most common sign. The door drops slightly when opened and may scrape the sill plate.
- Difficulty Closing: You have to lift the door to get it to latch properly.
- Popping or Creaking Noises: Loud metal-on-metal sounds when opening or closing the door, often indicating a lack of lubrication or worn internal parts.
- Misaligned Body Lines: The gap between the door and the car's body is uneven. 🎬 Watch this guide on fixing a sagging or misaligned door.
- Wind Noise or Water Leaks: A poorly sealed door can let in outside noise and moisture.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Door Hinge
For the 2013-2020 GS350, you have a few options when it comes to new door hinges. Since this is a part that affects body alignment and requires painting, choosing the right option is important.
A Note on Painting
Both OEM and aftermarket hinges typically come unpainted (primed in black or gray). To prevent rust and match your car's finish, the new hinge must be painted before installation. This adds cost and complexity to the repair.
Brand Quality: OEM vs. Aftermarket
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): Genuine Lexus hinges are guaranteed to fit perfectly and are made to the original quality standards. This is the safest but most expensive option. Given the importance of proper door alignment, many professionals prefer OEM for collision and body repairs.
Aftermarket Options:
- Dorman: Dorman is a major aftermarket supplier. Their quality can be hit-or-miss depending on the specific part. For a mechanical part like a hinge, they are often a cost-effective alternative. However, some users report minor differences in material thickness or finish compared to OEM parts.
- Replacement: This is often a private-label or generic brand. The quality can be inconsistent, but they are typically the most affordable. For a vehicle like the GS350 where fit and finish are important, a generic brand might be a gamble on achieving perfect alignment without extra work.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Per Hinge) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $90 - $160 | Guaranteed fit and quality, but highest cost. |
| New Aftermarket (Dorman, Replacement) | $23 - $50 | Cost-effective, but may have slight variations in quality or fit. |
| Shop Labor (Install & Align) | $150 - $300 | Does not include painting. Price varies by shop. |
| Painting | $75 - $150 | Cost to paint a single hinge to match vehicle color. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are there any recalls for the door hinges on the 2013-2020 Lexus GS350?
No. As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Lexus or the NHTSA for failing door hinges on the 2013-2020 GS350. Issues with hinges are generally considered wear and tear.
Can I just replace the hinge pin and bushing instead of the whole hinge?
On many vehicles, you can buy a pin and bushing kit. However, for the Lexus GS350, the pins are often integrated into the hinge assembly and are not designed to be serviced separately. You will likely need to replace the entire upper or lower hinge assembly.
Is replacing a door hinge a good DIY project?
This is an advanced DIY project. Car doors are heavy and require support to prevent them from falling and causing injury or damage. The bolts can be hard to access, and proper alignment after installation is critical to ensure the door closes and seals correctly. If you are not experienced with auto body work, this job is best left to a professional body shop.
🎬 See how a professional technician replaces a car door hinge.Do I need to replace both the upper and lower hinges at the same time?
It is highly recommended. Hinge wear occurs over time due to the door's weight, so if one hinge has failed, the other is likely worn as well. Replacing both at the same time ensures proper alignment and prevents you from having to do the job twice.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68720-02020 68740-02080 68760-20121 68760-20120
Vehicle-specific, unpainted, upper or lower position, left or right side.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Lexus GS350: