Lexus LS: Problems & Solutions

atunsil

I have a 91 Lexus LS 400, sometimes when the ignition key is turned, the starter turns over and over but the engine will not crank. Other times the engine fires right up. My mechanic is stumped and I'm not driving the car because I never know whether its going to crank or not. I'm tired of having it towed to shops only for it to start right up as soon as the tow truck puts it on the ground (making me look like an idiot). Does anyone know what could be causing this? :sick:

gwendolyn

Thanks Sv,

I bought this car Jan/05, with 101k miles. The dealership performed the 90k maintenance before I purchased it...I have since replacd the power steering pump, oil changed every 3k even though the manual says 5k. I have records from the prev owner that the rear brakes needed to be replaced ... this was noted on the 60k service receipt. I cannot imagine anyone riding 40k on bad rear brakes...but I have an appointment to have them checked on Tuesday...I do not hear any squealing...the brakes feel mushy, for a lack of a better description...in the meantime, the car is garaged until I know what I'm dealing with. This is by far the smoothest riding vehicle that I have ever owned...I alternate between this car and a 02 4 cyl accord coupe....I do not dare test drive the LS430....too expensive....but I hear a lot of Lexus owners prefer the 400 over the 430... even though I cannot imagine that...I thought about selling both cars and getting the 430...but the cost of gas has changed my mind...

Thanks for the advice..

gwendolyn

Thanks Is90rhd,

The brake light has not come on. I was just wondering if the light would come on if my brakes were in need of repair. I definitely do not want to replace the rotors..but the Lexus dealer says the new rotorr are so thin, that you cannot machine them even once...is that true?

I will inquire about the soft brake pads when I have the brakes checked out on Tuesday.

nvbanker

I don't know if your rotors are too thin to machine - I can't see them from here, but it's possible for them to be that way.....

wwest

anyone at Lexus that's telling me something that will transfer my money to their pockets. First, do the rotors really need to be turned? Lots of dealer service managers have adopted the practice of turning them when installing new brake pads regardless of actual need.

Unless the rotor has been damaged by metal to metal contact or rivets I only turn my rotors every three set of pads.

Secondarily I rather doubt that the rear rotors cannot be turned at least once.

famwald

I have records from the prev owner that the rear brakes needed to be replaced ... this was noted on the 60k service receipt. I cannot imagine anyone riding 40k on bad rear brakes...but I have an appointment to have them checked on Tuesday..

Actually, it is possible. Our son is now driving our '98 Toyota Avalon, which has 101k miles on it, and still riding on the original factory brakes. Most of those 101k miles are highway miles. At the 90k checkup our mechanic (not a lexus dealer) told us they're still fine, but to watch them.

The brakes are just now starting to squeak. Our son will have them checked in a month when the oil gets changed. I'm sure it's time ...

michael_mattox

I talked to Lexus yesterday about the new Nav. Update for my 01 LS....Due out in Oct.

They are concentrating on the free up dates for the 04s which had problems and The general UP date is now expected to be out in JANUARY (Hopefull that is in 06)

nvbanker

I have an 02 LS - what will they do on the update, Michael? Will they contact me, or send it, or do it at the dealer, or do I need to call someone, or speak with the service boutique at the dealership?

bildow

If your motor is making such a noise I have switched my engine to Mobil one synthetic oil using 5-30 weight. If you live in cold country the oil is thick and wont come up to the valves for about 30 second or sometimes more mobil one will help your engine run for years to come and I was told by the folks at mobil I could just do an ordinary oil change no problems my lexus had 120,000 miles when I changed over to mobil one. now has 250,000 miles and doing fine. The vibrations could be the michelin tires or it could be your shocks have some check your shocks to see if they are worn out you can just push hard down on the fenders and see if the car bounces more than 1and 1/2 times if it does the shocks might be worn out ????
and also about your mushy brake peddle, have your every changed out the brake fluid if not have it done by an independent garage not lexus cost to much. Also have you ever changed out your power steering fluid if not change it every 30 thousand miles. Happy motoring !!!!

bostongarden

In case anyone needs help with this problem, I found a solution posted on another board (I'm not listing it as Edmunds may not allow this)

Here is what I did:
1) Turned key from OFF position to ACC position and had it
remain in the ACC position for 61+ minutes.
2) Went through the usual procedure (although, I still could not
shut off the radio, the SEC remained on the screen, when
doing Step 1).

Feels good to be listening to the radio again while driving.

Thanks "MASTERSON," (from other board) wherever you are!!!!!!!

Bruce

michael_mattox

The dealer will recieve a kit telling them something about the changes ..Unfortunately they get nothing in advance...January is probably as soon we will know much.

You will need to do the contacting...P.S. the 03 upgrade was a huge advance on my 01.... points of interest went from 750,000 to 5,000,000....

trekken

I have a very similar problem except the vibration ranges 1800 to 2500 rpm and seems to be quite minimal around 3000rpm. I'm not too sure what is causing this although I have some suspicions such as faulty spark plugs, torque converter, or even engine mounts. I am also looking for some input from others of what actually fixes the problem.

sictransit

I'm considering the purchase of a 2002 or 2003 LS 430 soon, and most of the cars I've looked at have the Mark Levinson premium audio system. I would like to be able to integrate an iPod into this system. As you might expect, the 2002 and 2003 audio systems don't seem to support iPods, so I'm wondering what my best option for integrating an iPod into the car would be.

I don't want to use a cassette adapter or a FM transmitter.

So:

- Is there a good way to integrate an iPod into the 2002 or 2003 Levinson premium audio system

- If not, what are my options for replacing the Levinson audio system with an equally good one that will integrate with my iPod? Is it possible to install a more recent (and iPod compatible) Levinson premium audio system into a 2002 or 2003 LS 430? Can that be done without replacing the navigation system as well?

- Do any model years of the LS 430 have good iPod integration?

Any advice on this situation would be appreciated. Thanks!

rgsw

My 2005 LS430 does not support iPod. I don't believe the 2006 LS430 supports iPid either, but I'm not positive. I believe some of the 2006 Lexus sport model sedans offer iPod compatibility.

barnvette

I had a similar problem. I think it has to do with the wiring in the fuse box. The Lexus dealer is going to charge me $600 to remedy the problem.

Jared

smg1313

I am having the same problem with a 93 lexus ls400. Did anyone help you figure out how to remove the backseat?

ls90rhd

http://www.lexls.com/tutorials/body/rearseat.html Just type in this link, it has pictures of how to do it.

brf

my radio suddenly becomes inaudible shortly after ignition...( sometimes i can drive a few miles and then it will cut out) the radio technically remains on but no sound, nor in cd??? any ideas?

michael_mattox

Maybe speaker wires disconnected or bad connection?

saudiowner1

Hi,
I have an 2005 LS 430. I will be moving to Italy and I am planning to ship the car too. Do you know where could i buy a navigation CD for Italy in english support.

Thanks

bildow

I don't know if this will help trying getting a small hand pump from the local auto parts store and suck out the power steering fluid I use dexron 3 transmission fluid I would change the fluid about 4-6 times using about 2 quarts of the dexron fluid. I suck out the old power steering fluid then I put in the dexron fluid I let the car run for about 3-5 minutes and I also move the steering wheel left to right to help circulate the oil and bring the old oil from the rack and pinion I change my power steering oil about every 20-25,000 miles I also use mobil one synthetic transmission fluid in my 91 lexus power steering and transmission and no problems at 150,000. A friend of mine drove his 90 lexus 569,000 miles using mobil transmission fluid and no trans problems and in the motor mobil one 5w30 engine oil and no problems. One of the people at lexus turned me towards the synthetic oil from mobil one seems to be great product.

aggie76

Just wondering who else is having little irritations with their LS? I've got over 20k on my '04 LS430 Custom Lux and am having just one little issue after another requiring dealer visits. Latest ones are a garbled microphone for the Nav and Bluetooth plus the locking button for the front passenger has frozen and needs to be replaced.

The microphone is a really bothersome as I can hear everyone clearly on my end but its very broken and garbled when I speak with anyone else. We've adjusted the sensitivity and replaced it once - gonna try again.

They've just ordered a replacement locking switch so there's another trip to dealer.

I had a '98 GS with absolutely none of these issues - maybe too much technology in place.

bildow

You are asking about maintenance for you 92 lexus I use mobil one synthetic oil 5w30 weight and change it every 10,000 I also use the mobil one transmission fluid in my transmission changing it every 35,000. I was once told that I couldn't change from regular engine oil to synthetic oil above 5,000 miles I have changed a couple of toyota's at 100,000 miles no problems. I also change my power steering pump at 25-30 thousand miles using mobil one synthetic transmission fluid works fine so far at 150,000 miles on a 91 lexus. I also use the lexus 75-90 for the rear axal oil and change it every 50,000 miles. You can also use regular engine oil and go to 5000miles between changes or 7500 miles if you drive a lot of open road. You can also use the lexus type 4 transmission fluid changing it every 25,000 to 30,000 miles.
and just use dexron 3 transmission fluid on the power steering changing every 25,000 miles.

crazydiamond

My 90 Lexus LS400 has a wheel lock, I was changing the wheel and my key was broken, so now im in a bit of a jam. I need to either find a new key, or find a way to remove the locks before any tire gets flat or else im screwd. Anyone has any ideas? Immediately reply is apperciated!

nhan

crazydiamond

Another thing, my wheel lock is of the McGard brand, don't know if that helps. Thanks.

wwest

The right, correct, 12 point socket can sometimes be driven over the locking nut with a hammer.

nvbanker

Got a question - I seem to have a consistent whine when in motion - it is exactly affected in intensity by speed, up and down. It may be the tires - but it seems to still be there on a smooth as glass surface, albeit it much less loud. Any ideas? Yes, I know, I could ask the dealer what it is. It may come to that - the car is still under warranty, but I wanted to ask here first.

Also, do any of you know what this "driveline flange" is that must be tightened every time the car is serviced? Could that be my culprit?

Just curious.....

paul29

Call McGard , with a deposit they will send you a jam type removal tool and a new lock nut if you have the code ( comes with the car ). Deposit is refunded on their receipt of the tool in return . Very good service from McGard as they supply Toyota and Lexus with the locks . I have had to use this service twice on my 4 Runner on one the key striped the lock and another had a piece broken from the side of the lock.

trystan

I have a 92 LS400 and both my keys' remote keyless stopped working on the same day. I changed the fuse and both batteries and it still doesn't work. Does anyone have an idea of what the problem could be and how to fix it?

wwest

Turn the remote enable switch back on just to the left of the stearing column.

eagle3

I would like to fix this problem myself if possible instead of going to the dealer. When I turn on my Left blinker signal, the blinker light on my display blinks very fast. The left rear signal blinks, but very fast, just like my display. The left front signal is not working at all. Everything works fin when I turn on my Right blinker signal. My guess is my left front bulb may be blown....if so, is it hard to get to and change? Thanks to anyone for advise.

wwest

Super easy, just need a phillips screwdriver.

bildow

Gwen,
I saw where the person said that your lexus can get carbon deposit from sitting for about a week or something to that effect. Carbon is not growing while the car is sitting but usually comes from putting around town all day and not getting the car on the open road to clean out he engine. Chevron Techron is good but Lucas fuel injection cleaner seems to do a better job and you can also buy it at auto zone. Also get the big bottle and use it every other fill up. Just three ounces will do and and if you are not getting your car on the open road at least twice a month take it out some Saturday and take in on a good 50 to 75 mile round trip to clean out the engine going at least 65 mph. lot of cars sit in traffic all day and this can build up carbon and just putting around town going a mile here a mile there this will also build up carbon in the engine. Just like us the car needs excercise. Happy motoring!!!!!

stanyslaw

while trying to crank car the dash lights flutter like flashing and I can hear the ignition system engine doing the same thing, some times after pressing the gas the car may start once started it will do 2 things at various times started 1)it will be idling low having to keep foot on gas if move foot it will shut off and i can restart it without the battery being drained quickly 2)it will idle regularly and can take foot off pedal the rpm needle will not go to zero but near. It will run until i shut it off or stall in gear and soon as I try to re-crank it again the battery is drained or will drain within seconds with a brand new battery a couple of times It had not enough juice to crank and took it to be charged up and the tester said it had over 12 volts . I replaced both ignition coils,altinator was rebuilt I can unhook it and the car still stay run. this is electrical can anyone tell me what the problem maybe at times I get a no spark conditions off and on code 15 what that mean?

firsttimer5

I have the same exact problem described below (almost 3 years ago by ecis) with my 98 LS400. Every mechanic I speak to (including the Lexus service guys), tells me that the starter needs to be replaced, but I have the feeling they are looking for the easy way out. A check of the electrical system showed everyhing in order including the bew battery.

The problem has been lingering for about 9 months. Sometimes the car will start right away, other times it will take between 3 and 40 cranks to start it, no matter what's the temperature of the engine or the weather.

Please help!!!

#976 of 1811 LS 400 Starter / ignition problem by ecis Feb 24, 2003 (12:47 pm)
I think I have a starter issue in my 99 Lexus LS400. It will click once when trying to start and that's about it. If I do it enough times it will finally start. Please advise. Thanks

paul29

Replacing the starter on a LS is a big job compared to most cars , it is not the easy way out $$$$. If all you get is a click when you turn the key or no click at all , and your battery is charged , then you have a problem between the key switch and the starter , including both . If the engine turns over and does not start , then the problem is not the starting circuit , it is elsewhere . When you say cranks , that normally means it is turning over . If you meant it is clicking or cranking very slow , then the problem is between your starter solenoid ( relay ) and the starter inclusive . The starting circuit is about the least complicated circuit to diagnosis in the power train of your car . Why do you not trust what you have been told ?

bildow

I saw your problem I agree with the first person on the starter problem if the car cranks over means the engine is making noise and it dosen't start then the problem is in the engine running. Again if the engine doesn't make any noise only a click it could be the starter or a very poor battery or you could have battery acid on the terminals. If the starter is bad it gets expensive because to change the starter you have to pull the whole top of the engine out the intake manifold and this takes a whole day and could cost up to$900.00 to $1100.00 at the lexus dealer. You can check the battery by putting on your head lights and have someone watch when you start the engine if the lights go way down then you have a battery problem if not and they stay bright while you are trying to start the car and only a click happens get your credit card out it could be the starter.

roman_85

Will an automatic transmission off a 1995 300 ES fit a 1993 300 ES??

paul29

From what I have seen a 93 300es will accept a 92 or 93 trans . The 95 trans will fit 94 to 96. Any salvage yard can verify this.

gwendolyn

It's time to change the transmission fluid services. This is the fist one sinced I have owned the car. As there anything I should make sure of: IE trans fluid type...etc...

Any suggestions...I'm not using the Lexus dealership...using Japanese Specialist repair shop...

Thanks,

Gwen

sv7887

Hi Gwen,
You must use the Toyota Transmission fluid Type T-IV for this car. I wouldn't even think of using anything else. You can easily buy it at any Toyota dealer. This fluid has special detergents and other agents that are much more sophisticated than any other fluid out there. Don't let anyone convince you they are using something that is "Compatible" or "Equivalent"

There are different methods to changing the Transmission fluid. The Lexus dealer normally drops the Transmission Pan and refills 2.5 qts of fluid. The Transmission holds something like 8.5 quarts. The dealer should not charge a lot of money for this service.

Some shops like to change all the fluid by hooking up a high pressure machine to do so..I've heard a lot of horror stories about people having this done and having to pay several thousand dollars for new transmissions. I read several Lexus and Jaguar message boards and have heard this story told many times.

This may just be me being over-cautious, but I would stick with the partial fluid change. I normally change mine at 15k Intervals. (Manual says 30K, but then again, the manual only serves to keep the car trouble free within the warranty periood!) I have two Lexus cars, a 1992 LS400 and a 2005 LS430..I've followed the procedure outlined above for 13 years on my LS400 and never had a problem.

You also may want to change your Power Steering fluid at some point. If I recall the manual says to fill it with Automatic Transmission Fluid, Dextron (type II/III?) Some dealers will say Power Steering fluid is okay, but your manual is the best source for information.

Hope this is helpful!
SV

famwald

You also may want to change your Power Steering fluid at some point. If I recall the manual says to fill it with Automatic Transmission Fluid, Dextron (type II/III?) Some dealers will say Power Steering fluid is okay, but your manual is the best source for information.

SV - transmission fluid in lieu of power steering fluid? I thought only power steering fluid goes into the power steering system. I learn something new every day.

nvbanker

Interesting, sv. My 02 LS430 says the transmission never needs service. So far, I've followed that recommendation in the manual. The fluid is still a lovely red color, at 32,000 miles. So, what gives? I know it never hurts to change oil or fluids, but why do so, if you don't plan to drive the car more than about 60,000 miles, and it's supposedly sealed for life? :confuse:

bildow

I checked with lexus and they said change the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles, I have an old lexus I use mobil one synthetic trans fluid and change it every 20,000 by draining the pan where there is a drain plug for this reason. a lot of german cars mercedes, bmw, porsche and so on use synthetic fluid as a factory fill and go 100,000 miles before the first service. I still change it every 20,000 miles with the synthetic fluid I sit in traffic here in California 2-4 hours per day this is hard on a transmission and I have always gotten 300,000 miles out of my transmissions. So remember all lexus automobiles change the trans fluid every 30,000 miles

sv7887

Hi All,
The newer LS430 tranmissions are supposedly "Sealed for Life" All that this ensures is an early transmission failure. Jaguar did the same thing on their 5 speed ZF Transmissions and many owners are complaining of early failures. They can claim it is lifetime, but remember they only need to keep it trouble free for the warranty period. Fluid is the lifeblood of any mechanical component.

It depends how long you want to hold onto the car for really. I tend to hold on them for >5 yrs so I'm more inclined to change the fluids at shorter intervals.

Synthetics have been proven to last beyond the typical changes. But time does take its tool. Toyota, if you recall, got into trouble with Oil Sludge problems for insisting that you could go 7500 Miles or greater without an oil change.

They can replace the fluid if you insist. Lexus dealers like to change their fluids at 15K (Probably just padding profit margin) even though the manual says 30K.

In my owners manual it says to put ATF fluid for the Power Steering. That's why I never let the likes of Jiffy Lube work on my cars. Even though the dealership is expensive, I take it to them..Part of it is for liability reasons. If they break something, I can hold them responsible, as I have many times in the past.

Hope this helps,
SV

nvbanker

Thank you, bildow & sv. I'm a fluid changer by heart, and have always changed my transmission fluids every 25,000 miles - what I considered to be a happy medium for the hot climate I live in. I'm likely to do the same with this Lexus regardless of the manual specs, for the same reasons you have listed. As I said above, it never "hurts" to change a fluid on a car - however it can hurt to be penny wise and pound foolish later - even though it's unlikely I'll ever see more than 60,000 on the odo on this car.

jsummervllle

Would like to know if and how you fixed your dash lights. Mine started doing this if it gets cold then is normal when cabin warms up. I have a 1994 LS400. A Lexus dealer wants $1000 or so, an independent shop that specializes in Lexus wants $500 but my car out of service for a week or so while they send my dash cluster to CA for rebuilding.
Please advise.
Jim

jsummervllle

Please advise about your fix for the leaking or fading LCD. Mine is getting worse and weather is getting colder too. I have a 1994 LS400 with 161,000 miles. I also have sqeaky struts now that it is cold againg her in Missouri, any easy fixes for that?
Jim

tms99

LS430 DVD Nav sys - how do I turn off the beginning warning screen when I start the car?

tms99

2004 LS430: Lexus wants over $700 to purchase & install XM receiver. Any suggestions for a less expensive solution?