HerveG

Have 2004 w/69k. Just returned to Naples after 5 months. Reconnected battery and started great (new battery). After nice ride, starting problems! Turns over great. But have to try to try start 3-10 times before starts right up and then runs just great. Other times, just turns over with little indication of possible start. To this point, only know problem when engine warmed up - don't know if issue when cold start.
No problem lights. Timing belt/water pump replaced at dealer in Spring. Removed gas cap in case vapor lock.
Left car w/full tank and gasoline stabilized...perhaps the problem?

Any suggestions/ideas before I contact dealer's service?
Thanks, Herve

bb430

iTrader: (1)

My guess, air trapped in fuel line, fuel pump going out, or fuel pump relay is going out.

HerveG

Much appreciate your input. Guessing not air in fuel line since runs great once started. Drove 30+ miles without any hint of problem.

No lit warning light. Any suggestion how to narrow down problem?

Plan to call dealer in morning. Will let you know how turns out.

Thanks again.

HerveG

Dealer service suggested possible problem with my key. Replaced battery in spare key - NG. Unfortunately $5 battery did not fix the problem! Still have to try 4-5 times before starts. Bringing in to Germain Lexus tomorrow. Will let you know.

Harold57

If it were a problem with your key, the battery wouldn't make a difference. It is the security resistors (or whatever they use) that are embedded in the key that allow it to start. Do you have another key to try? I'd try that first.

HerveG

Tried second key w/new battery and also the valet key. Both ultimately start the car but only after several attempts. Service rep said doubts fuel pump.
Perhaps the relay....will see when bring in on Friday.

kjcole

so a hot start issue - maybe sensor related (for temp of coolant)? I'd start looking at the sensors and control for warm vs cold start. Indeed, I'd start looking at the entire fuel pressure regulation system. Hot start issues are usually fuel related.

ChimpsAlot

Check the intake manifold, clean the throttle body with a rag and some carb cleaner. The butterfly could be getting gummed up. My car will hesitate on a warm start, and won't idle unless I hold my foot on the gas... but only does this once every 2 years or so, once the butterfly is gummed up.

HerveG

Dropped car off to Germain Lexus.on Wed. Immediately given nice loaded ES350 loaner - on my way 5 minutes. Great Service Consultant - Dave Mckinney kept me well informed.
Initially could not duplicate starting problem. Finally confirmed and said likely involves immobilizer system. If need to replace, this $300 part would cost over $1K since involves dismantling 1/2 of car. Oh no!!!
Finally ready today. Said needed to consult w/Lexus and reset the immobilizer system. So returned rental today after 5 days. Charge......$0. Thus my subject "Thank you Germain Lexus".
As a side note, right side mirror has not worked for past year. Now it works! Just a fluke or associated with resetting immobilizer/electronics?

Tmeeoye

I need help am using Es 300 2003 model , I want to travel and I don't want anybody to access my car when am not around , pls want I can I remove from the car or press that will not allow the car to start . Thanks

mrblister

Your in the wrong forum

Coleroad

Just pull the fuel pump fuse. I don't know which one it is in your car but you can find it in your owners manual.

Bgw70

LoL, park it at the police station!

Coleroad

They would probably impound to make a few bucks.