The battery in my 2006 GX470 went dead after five days so I charged it up. Now there are some indicator lights and dash fan that operates when the key is not in the ignition. The starter cranks the engine over but will not start . The steering wheel remains upright when the key is turned on. I tried a new battery in the key and red light works but does not activate the door locks. I tried shutting the hood and locking and unlocking the door manually but it still will not start. Any ideas would be appreciated. The Lexus service managers are also perplexed as to the cause.

 

Did they try a computer reset?

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Wait 3 minutes while holding it in your hand (for various capacitors, etc. to discharge in the airbag circuits).
3. Then touch it to the positive terminal for a moment.
4. Reconnect it to the battery's negative terminal with a minimum of sparks.

Chip H.

 

I had removed the positive terminal earlier. I held it on the negative terminal for half a minute, hooked it back up and have the same results - interior fan and lights are on with the key removed. I am thinking that there is a faulty ignition relay?

 

It's possible. That or the ignition switch.

This is something too difficult to solve over the internet. Find a talented mechanic.

Chip H.

 

The problem turned out to be a wiring harness under the dash which was getting wet as the windshield was leaking when it rained. I replaced the windshield and the electrical problems fixed themselves over the next month or two. The solution Lexus had previously suggested was to replace the entire wiring harness for around $18,000..!

 

$18,000? Really???