sherm210

I have a 2001 RX300 with about 190,000 miles on it. The other day the VSC and Check Engine lights both came on (I think at the same time). I took it to the mechanic and he pulled up a code alluding to the catalytic converter. He said since MN doesn't have emission laws, it isn't something I needed to fix immediately, if at all. Otherwise it was a $500 job. Being 15 years old, I'm not inclined to put a bunch of money into it. He reset it and it was off for a day or two before it came back on.

Does this seem like an accurate assessment from the mechanic? Is there something I need to do?

Some further background: it gets about 18 MPH/Goes through oil a little faster than usual/Sometimes when I start it, black or gray smoke comes out of the exhaust for a about 15 seconds/some rattling coming from the engine

Wht95scort

It will cause poor gas mileage, burn up the ozone and start to cause damage to your O2 sensors. It seems like you got your money's worth out of the car may want to trade it in before that transmission goes out.

hypervish

Welcome to Club Lexus!

What was the CEL code?

hypervish

Who said anything about the transmission going out?

Wht95scort

Common issue with the transmission failing at higher milage. Not saying all but more than none. I see about 3 a month come in. If the car can't move your lucky to get what it's worth in scrap.

salimshah

Do you have a shop? Are you a mechanic? Certified? If so great. We can all benefit from your skills. We welcome all points of view. If you want to start a thread on transmission woes, please start one.

Back to OP's question. CEL and ABS. I would suggest a quick read of our sticky 'having problems, start here' thread.

For meaningful response, you have to post the actual code. Auto shops do a free code reading. Sometimes a sensor goes bad and some times one has to diagnose the actual problem.

Salim

Wht95scort

Lexus master tech. I think I did give the op good advice.