RX - 1st Gen (1999-2003) Discussion topics related to the 1999 -2003 RX300 models

Overheating

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Old 02-17-18, 02:24 PM
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Threeinone
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Default Overheating

My 2001 is overheating at idle. It starts when I turn off the a/c or start driving again. Any ideas guys?
Old 02-17-18, 02:29 PM
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Kodiak303
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You may have a leak. You can use uv dye use uv light will yellow glasses. This will help spot the leak. They sell kits for a/c or water system leaks.
Old 02-17-18, 02:30 PM
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Kodiak303
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Originally Posted by Threeinone
My 2001 is overheating at idle. It starts when I turn off the a/c or start driving again. Any ideas guys?
or better yeat make sure, your fan kicks on without a/c. Could be a relay that’s out. Be sure to check all fuses
Old 02-17-18, 02:34 PM
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Threeinone
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I meant to say it "stops overheating" when I turn off the AC or start driving. Could that still be a leak? Radiator and reservoir are full.
Old 02-17-18, 03:55 PM
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Kodiak303
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Originally Posted by Threeinone
I meant to say it "stops overheating" when I turn off the AC or start driving. Could that still be a leak? Radiator and reservoir are full.
no, it’s not a leak issue. The problem is do to the fan not kicking on when the car is sitting. Once it reaches operating temp. It should kit on. Check your fan fuse, or your fan relay. If there is no fan on while sitting it will overheat
Old 02-17-18, 04:21 PM
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Kodiak303
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By the way, how do you post a new thread..? I’m new to this..,lol would really appreciate it


... I have sent a private mail with instructions.,,,, Salim

Last edited by salimshah; 02-17-18 at 09:19 PM.
Old 02-17-18, 09:18 PM
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salimshah
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It seems a problem of air flow. Start by visually examining for air blockage. You can use compressed air over the radiator or water. [Do not use high pressure washer as it will bend the fins].

Then check the connector at the bottom of the radiator. Get the circuit diagram and confirm that you can short the terminals of the connector to see if the fan kicks in. [There is a thermal switch at the bottom of the radiator. I would like you to make sure it is safe ... both keep your hand/fingers out of the way, and electrically safe to jump the terminals].

Salim
Old 02-24-18, 06:39 AM
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Threeinone
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So I'm narrowing it down and I went to AutoZone for a temp switch. The one they gave me is not like the one I pulled out. The one they gave is thin and has smaller thread. The tech manual I found online calls it water temp switch no. 1. The dealership says it's no. 2. It's at the bottom of the radiator on the passenger side. Lexus wants $120. Any ideas on a cheaper option?
Old 02-24-18, 06:41 AM
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Threeinone
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And a part no. please!
Old 02-24-18, 07:37 AM
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salimshah
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Please check the online parts site ... such as Lexus of south atlanta. There is temperature sensor near the top of the engine and a switch at the bottom of the radiator.

Before you buy the part, follow instruction on how to test it. You can always throw a part.

Salim
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