My 1998 GS300 is having starting issues. I turn the key and hear a click but nothing. Sometimes if I hold the key for 5 or 6 seconds it'll eventually spin the starter and start. Sometimes I have to turn the key again, maybe several times before the starter goes. Once the starter goes, it fires right up. Any ideas before it decides not to start at all?

 

First, welcome to the forum.
Second, Start to clean your battery contact to see if you get a best results.
Third, If not any of that and your problem persists. It's your starter that is being exhausted and need replacement. Also can be the key switch where the key goes in and is demonstrating that internal contacts are wearing out and being damaged. Good luck

 

I had the same issue and it was my starter.

 

Also, check the battery in your key. Maybe is low and the computer no recognize the key with the ecu. Just anotherwise to verify.

 

My first thought was the security key. I have had those fail before. The two keys actually seem to work slightly differently. One is an aftermarket replacement shell after the original key plastic broke. But, I think the click I hear is actually in the starter itself and it doesn't turn. Battery voltage is good, battery is less than a year old. I'm going to order a starter. That's the way I was leaning anyway.

 

Does any owner of the 2007 ES350 have problem starting the car in hot weather? I've had this problem for many years, especially in the summer. Took the car in to Lexus dealer but no fix so far. They said they can only fix the problem when they can replicate the problem in the shop. But so far the problem hasn't occurred while the car is in the shop (in cooler weather). Would appreciate to know if anyone has experienced similar problem.

 

Hmm... many years. Got the battery checked already? Batteries generally die sooner due to extreme heat.
Next, check the battery connections to see if they are loose.

 

Battery was replaced. I also assumed Lexus shop also checked this when I took the car in. Very frustrating.

 

Click no click click click as ypu go from on to start usually is the starter solenoid or a low voltage battery.

Common to all cars until hybrids came along.

The nig wire from the nattery to the starter is triggeredby the small wire from the key to the solenoid on the starter.

That solenoid when energized by the key usong low amperage 12 volts, moves a lever switch to get the big wire hogh amperage to the staryer motor.

Yhay solenoid at yhe same tome pushes yhe gear on the staryer yoward yhe flyeheel yo turn the motor.

Hope this helps as that is usually the reason for your symtoms.

 

had same problem. Take your starter out and disassemble it, my problem was that 28226 and 28226A were crocked and dirty. I fixed them just by turning them with wrench and cleaned everything with brake cleaner and now it works like a champ. Note that it is starter form year 1

998.