1996 Lexus ES 300 Long Term Road Test

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1996 Lexus ES 300 Long Term Road Test

The infamous

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ag10

Just came across your articles as I also have a 96 ES300 with the check engine light on and same code.

I had to have the exhaust (including catalytic converter) replaced and chose to not use factory parts as the savings were significant and the car was already 15 years old. Since then, the check engine light has been on and gives a P0441 code.

I've had to have the emissions tested twice, and I found that using premium gas seems to make the light go off in the next two or three days. I typically use mid-grade, and as soon as I return to mid-grade the light comes back on. According to my mechanic though, the emissions are fine with mid-grade, just the sensor malfunctions; I've passed both emissions tests on the first try. Anyway, for people seeking a quick fix for that error code, try using premium if you don't already.

mdj61254

I have virtually the exact same vehicle, for what it's worth I recently had the same code displayed and it turned out to be a leaking vacuum hose in the emission control system, $180 to diagnose and replace 50 cents worth of rubber hose...

fordson1

I thought the mechanic who did your dash lights for you found a vacuum hose disconnected and hooked it up again...what, only 73 miles ago - ? Are you sure the ECU didn't note the fault then and is only now setting the code and giving you the light? I don't know how long it takes for this car to run through its evaporative emission system checks, but that sounds likely to me - it may already be fixed.

jpnpower

Lesson, somewhat good car, or no car. Cheap car=nightmares

noburgers_

clear the code and see if it comes back in the next 2 weeks, while also following ag10's recommendation to try premium.

zhangrenhou

I hope it's just a simple fix!

fordson1

I was not aware that you are going to sell this car. I think you need to keep it for longer - most people in the financial situation you are trying to simulate will not get rid of a car that they have put money into and which is basically running well. I really don't understand IL's direction with this car...you have taken it to mechanics even for things a normal person strapped for funds would have tried to fix himself, and now, after sinking all this money into the car, you are going to sell it. That's just not how it would be happening with an actual owner. The vision has been very muddled here.