TerryClark

I've got three lights illuminated on my dash -- the brake, ABS and VSC lights. Just got back from the dealer and he told me the brake actuator is shorted out. The part alone is $3,200 and it will take three hours of labor! Can this possibly be??? Anyone ever hear of this problem?

Rainbird

I would get a second opinion on that. I am not saying that the dealer is wrong, but those lights have also been associated with the "Brake Light Switch". A very simple and low cost repair. Search this forum using the key words "Brake Light Switch".

Let us know how this turns out.

RX330inFL

+1 for getting a second opinion and to see about the brake switch. Common failure. Which dealer gave you the $3200 diagnosis? Also, which model and year RX do you have? Hybrid?

rcy

Sounds like a hybrid. Might try moving this post to hybrid section.
I know that actuator is an expensive part...but $3200 sounds odd...a transaxle is $4500 and an inverter is $7000 (at least it was two years ago when mine was replaced under warranty).

***edit*** just checked an online source - $1539.80. still not chump change, but cheaper than $3200.

Rainbird

According to your profile on this site you have a 2004 Lexus RX330. Is that correct? If so your posting should not have been moved to this hybrid forum. I also wonder if the dealer misspoke and should have said "ABS Actuator" See this posting:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...s-on-help.html

That model vehicle also has a recall in which the lights you mention will appear on the instrument panel (brake light switch).

http://auto-recalls.justia.com/lexus...000/index.html

rcy

Hmm...is it an ABS actuator or a BRAKE actuator? If he has a RX330 then he likely means the ABS actuator. The 400h has a brake actuator. You're probably right and I was wrong and this post shouldn't have been moved to the hybrid forum.

mandyfig

This sounds like the classic brake switch issue of which the fix is just a $30 brake switch replacement.

drewcam888

iTrader: (1)

I think take to another lexus dealer. I also agree that the switch is a likely cause