Hurrican23

We have a 2006 RX 400H. The hybrid inverter has gone out. Our car has 170K miles and is worth under $10K. A new inverter is about $8K through the Lexus dealer and with service and tax will be about $10K.


We are considering buying a used inverter off eBay (about $1100). We are looking for someone qualified to do it.


Questions:


Open ended question - advice?


What does replacing the inverter entail? Understand may require some programming after replacement.


Is there a way to test a used inverter before installing to ensure it is good?


Suggestions in Seattle area (zip code 98072 20 miles east of Seattle) for qualified mechanic?


Thanks in advance for any info.

jooksing82

Hi, I don't know if you had your car fixed yet. If you did can you provide us with an update. Else I had this concern when i bought the car. If mine were to show this problem i would get it off ebay or 3rd party and attempt to service it myself.

I found the procedures for removal and installation of the inverter online (not sure if it was from this forum or not) But I doubt I can post it.

I believe there are a few "hybrid" specialize mechanic shops around Seattle. I would search for that.

Alexbenz

I thought it was covered under warranty?

jooksing82

They are past the warranty base on miles.

Alexbenz

meant to say under the recall?

jooksing82

The recall involves the inverter (specifically the IPM). nothing related to this leak a far as I know. It is at the top of engine bay and does not touch the coolant.
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/t...x-400h-hybrid/

jooksing82

Sorry alex. I must be half asleep on this thread as i read it was related to the leak rather than the inverter failing.