Flashing "drive" light indicator
10-04-16, 09:30 AM
#16
Lexus Test Driver
Well, I noticed some code issues that popped up during the hot, very humid summer months. But though I'm expecting them to pop up again any day now, they are not appearing. The weather has cooled, though, and the humidity is less. I may try a higher-octane gas next summer and see if that helps the car be happier.
You can buy an OBDII scanner "elm327" for about $10 shipped on ebay. Then download the free app "Torque" on your android device. Thats all you need.
I have one but never used on my vehicles...
I have used it many times on other people's vehicles....damn Lexus are too reliable.
10-04-16, 09:40 AM
#17
Lexus Test Driver
Personally, higher octane gas in a car that doesn't require it is a waste of money. All gas contains detergents, no matter the octane. Your car isn't designed for ( or high enough compression to warrant) premium gas. If you want to clean the fuel system, try a good fuel injector/fuel system cleaner a couple times a year. Also, I believe member 285EXP has demonstrated in another related thread that the added cost doesn't tend to be made up by significant gains in mpg. Feel free to do your own research. Your mileage may in fact, vary...
But in my 97 ES owner's manual, it states use premium. However, when premium is not available, use regular....or something like that.
Then in my 06 ES owner's manual, it states use premium for performance.
Both are written in a very subjective manner.
I personally have tested it out myself (but keep in mind your vehicle's condition and ambient condition are different).
While on regular gas, using my 97 ES300, on a hot summer day, on a hard acceleration, at 280k miles, from time to time, I do feel some ignition/timing retardation.
I do not have any insight on how sensitive the knock sensor is or how much ignition retardation the ECU is capable of.
After running on regular gas for +100k miles, I did not pull the head off at +280k miles to verify the pistons/valves condition. And I didn't do a compression test.
So I can't really verify. This is only my subjective observation.
Therefore, as I said, when in doubt (along with other engine problems), just run premium gas to see if that eliminate one potential cause.
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