crystalf

Just bought a used IS 300, 2001. 2 weeks ago the dashboard light that signalled one of the tail lights was out came on. But when I checked it, all were working fine. Next time I started up the car, the light was no longer on. A couple of days later, came back on while I was driving. Again, when checked, nothing (and of course the light wasn't on next time I drove)! Last week my passenger-side window wouldn't roll back up for a couple of hours. Then, just like the warning light, next time I started the car back up it rolled right up. Took it into my local Lexus dealer....they checked all the tail light bulbs and the window. They all were fine -which they are FOR NOW! I don't know anything about cars - but everyone I 've told, including a mechanic friend of mine, seems to think there may be a problem with the electrical system. Is there something my dealer should be checking here? Is this a common issue? Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

rominl

iTrader: (4)

it's definitely not a common issue, i have never heard that before. i hope you still have warranty on the car, coz' sometimes these electrical problem can end up with big money. the problem here is it's on and off, if you can't duplicate the problem then it's hard for dealership to help you too. maybe next time if it helps, just don't stop the car and drive to dealerhip @_@

crystalf

Yeah, that's what the dealer said. Luckily I purchased a service contract with the car and some parts are still under warranty. Thanks for your reply!

Letsride

I would have them check the lamp failure relay and check the connection to the 3rd brake light (if you have the factory spoiler)

crystalf

So you don't think that the two issues are related? If its just a tail light or just the window - that I can handle!

amy011079

wow, very weird. can't say i have ever had that problem either. i hope it doesn't cause you any issues! good luck!

mmarshall

Amy's right....this one IS strange. The only possible explanation I can come up with is that there is an internal defect in the power window switch that prevents it from cutting off when you release it...the spring-back machanism is supposed to cut off the current and close the circuit. If the switch pops back normally when you release it, and the circuit inside does NOT cut off, the electric motor will get continuous current and strain........and heat buildup....to the point where the motor's emergency circuit-breaker will prevent it from running at all. Then, once it cools, the motor goes back to normal.....only to repeat the process once you hit the switch again.
Anyone got any other ideas?......that is the only one I can think of.