kahi

I have 2000 RX 300. When turning on the key to start, the dash lights would light up and I would get a clicking sound. the engine would not engage. After several times the car would start normally. This would happen eratically--usually in the morning. The service manager replaced the battery and said he checked the computer codes. a week or so ago. it is still happening. I am reluctant to return to service place I used since they found nothing the first time.
Any ideas on the problem?

Fern

sounds like a starter or solenoid.


My first guess would have been battery terminals not tightened but since you had bat replaced, guess that rules that out.

do a search on this forum as I recall similar issues in past posts.

Good luck

JAB

Been there done that. Problem is with your starter. How many miles? My 1999 RX300 developed that exact same problem at about 110K or so and got progressively worse to the point where it simply would not start at all. Research on the internet revealed that this is a common problem with the Nippon Denson starter used in most Toyota product V6 engines. Dealer will charge you over $600 to replace the starter when all you need is a $7.00 part (a brass contact in the solenoid portion of the starter) which you can obtain from an independent rebuilder of starters and alternators; Lexus does not stock the part. These starters are very easy to remove, disassemble, repair, and reinstall, as long as you have the particular part.

yoon

yup most def your starter. i had the same problem about 2 weeks ago. replaced it, and its been cherry ever since