hi. my lexus is having issues starting sometimes, seems more the case when the engine hasn't run (e.g. overnight) or maybe when it is damp and cool outside.

first, i had the starter replaced and this happened right after that. but apparently, this is a total coincident just like my bad knock sensor and MAF all coming in the last 6 months.

i took it to a new mechanic and he says it's the idle error control motor and it should be replaced. any chance it could just be the valves or i can just clean it instead of replacing it?

it sometimes dies after the starting. i can fairly reliably cure it by stepping on the gas gently right after starting the engine.

thanks, everybody!

 

Its likely he (mechanic) is correct. Your symptoms described fall in line with what your saying. It usually idles fine once warm or does it pulse (rpm) at idle?

 

it's only in the beginning at startup. today, it had issues when i stepped on the gas after starting. it caught and i reversed but then died on "drive." after a few tries, i just left it on at drive for a few seconds without touching the gas pedals and it was ok.

but once the engine has been on for a minute or so, it is always fine.

mainly, i'd like to know if it's the motor or if i can clean the valves instead.

if i can clean it, is it hard to get to and can i just use like an MAF cleaner? that's what i have around.

thanks.

 

Are you talking about the idle air control valve? If so follow this link for cleaning without removing the IAC valve. https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...-write-up.html

Of course to get a more thorough cleaning requires removing the IAC valve.

Use throttle body cleaner to clean the IAC valve.

 

I've had to replace both O2 sensors, one knock sensor, clean the IAC valve, and the oil control valve (get ready for it). I think these are just common problems when these cars reach a certain point. All these repairs can be done DIY if you are somewhat mechanically inclined. Plus this forum (and others) can provide valuable tips and instruction.

 

thanks, guys. i will attempt to clean the IAC valve but i had a mechanic put in the knock sensor b/c going behind the manifold seemed so daunting.

i'll give an update when i finish.

 

I had a similar problem with my 99 ES300. I took off the throttle body and cleaned it out with carb cleaner and that solved the problem. That was 6 months ago and I haven't had any further issues (knock on wood).

 

well, it seems to have done the trick. the air intake hose was fairly snug so i had to warm it up with a hot towel before pulling it off.

thanks, everybody.

 

Thanks for getting back to us. It's refreshing to see a thread close with a solution.