nothing visual wrong with the car, good amount of oil, tranny oil, coolant, etc

what are some things to look for?

air filter? plugs? wires?

 

I bet it's one/some/all of the following:

1. Oxygen Sensor
2. EGR Valve Modulator
3. Vacuum Switch Valve

Dealer will have a code reader which will tell you for sure. take car in at next oil change and ask for a free read.

Get the work at the TOYOTA dealer, not the Lexus dealer and save yourself some money.

Good luck.

 

Usually when your CEL comes on, it's usually emissions system related. Take it to your local dealer or qualified mechanic to have the codes read.

 

AutoZone will give you a free diagnostic if you check engine light is on. Just takes a minute.

 

If you have an old gas cap, start with replacing that. It's only about $8. If the gas cap seal is faulty, that can throw the check engine light as well.

 

They stopped offering that service here in CA unfortunately.

 

I just had my check engine light come on, took it to the dealer ($110.00...ouch) they said it was the oxygen sensor, they suggested replacing both for some ridiculous amount, like $700-800 dollars!

I said I'll wait until I need a smog, a week later the light went out...or burnt out.

Any way its off now!

badams

Ps. Where can I get oxygen sensors cheap. Everywhere I called wants $400 or more for both.

 

It's not a very cost effective item. Try autozone or kragen for the parts if you haven't already done so. Otherwise I'd advise you to try www.toyotaparts4u.com or call up Steve Ganz or Angel at Carson Toyota parts...www.carsontoyota.com.

 

found out its my knock sensor, there are two, but only one needs to be replaced.

asked for a toyota dealership about a 93 camry v6 sensor and they said it has a different part number, compared to the es300. is that right? its like 190 canadian here....

also is there another name for the knock sensor ? the guy in the dealership didn't know what i was talking about till he started to type stuff of his computer

 

It shouldn't be but double check with your local Lexus dealer and another Toyota dealer to confirm the part numbers.