My 2016 Lexus GS350 passenger side servo is stuck on high heat. It is intermittent and can be ok for days and stuck for days. I ordered the part but my local Lexus dealer was going to take a day and I am guessing charge me an arm and a leg. I can probably do it myself having researched the replacement steps using Gemini AI. However, Gemini recomended trying a 'Software fix" :"Before buying a new part, be aware of Lexus TSB L-SB-0009-22. Lexus discovered that these motors often don't fail—the internal grease just settles in one spot, causing a "dead zone." The Software Fix: Some owners have fixed this by using a "Servo Motor Initialization" via a Techstream tool (or a high-end OBDII scanner), which cycles the motors rapidly to redistribute the grease."

The tools Gemini recommends are Mini VCI J2534 Cable with Techstream Software: or VXDIAG VCX Nano:

I did a search in this forum and found some old stuff. Does anyone have information on the software fix and the best tool?

Thanks
Jim

 

That option is available after the ecu update(or thats what i read in tsb pdf) . Safer to do the ac ecu update at the dealer. For update and then regrease, like 200$. Maybe ask lexus USA headquarters if they wanna help do it free or cheaper

 

Thanks for the tip about the ECU update. I tried the Lexus headquarters and even though this is my second GS and I had an ES to start with, no go. They wanted me to have it diagnosed first! I had made an appointment to the have the servo replaced the other day after ordering the part. That information did not make into the appointment. I show up for my appointment and was told I would have to leave it over night. Of course, no loaner available. I live 40 miles away. Lexus service is not what it used to be.

Jim

 

That's pretty crappy considering it's a known issue with a TSB. At least the not having loaner available.

Depending on your dealer, some charge an hour or two of labor to install the TSB firmware update. I would not recommend a knockoff cable and/or any knockoff techstream for firmware flashing. They're fine for getting data or making changes, but flashing is more risky.

 

Good morning I was able to reset the HVAC System, mine was the same way passenger was stuck in hiking while passenger west cold air coming out, I went to a real reputable Lexus Toyota specialize shop not a dealer, but I had the software dead in 10 minutes and charged me $50 now the AC works great.
sometimes it’s good to try to find a local shop that specializes on our cars a lot cheaper than the dealer.

 

I never had this problem (knock on wood). But I took my car in to Lexus some years back and they performed the Update while it was there, and did not ask me before they did it. I was not real happy about it and let them know they needed to ask me before they do something on my car.

Good for you that it resolved your problem. One thing I have posted here a few times is a belief I have that aids in this problem occurring in some GS's, even still, Lexus does have a problem with the Servo's in just about every Lexus model car/SVC sadly.

I try to stay away from running Dual variable temp setting in my GS350 Lux. The Lux even has the only Lux package option of 3 way heat/ac setting Auto option with controls split for drive/pass in addition in the back seat arm rest. I really believe that running the 2 diff Temps, especially so far different like 72 Pass but 81 drivers setting. Aid in those motors working 60% or better more operating to combat the 2 diff Auto temp settings by opening and closing like a workout. I would tell anyone to try and just use 1 temp in the car in agreement with driver and pass as to not have those servos motors going crazy back and fourth. It's just a theory I have but, trying to keep 2 diff temp def will have those motors working much harder to Auto measure and keep 2 different air temps.

 

Do you use the "driver only" climate setting at all for the same reasons?

 

I use the Auto setting only with the exterior air coming in button on setting only.