2013 Lexus RX450h won't start with engine light on
 

Hi,

I have an fairly new 65K mile 2013 Lexus RX450h that I got recently. Today, I tried to start the car and it was trying to crank the engine for 10 secs. Then stopped. Then an engine light came up. The 12V DC battery has been recharged once, and it still has juice to do all the electronics stuff.

The ready/start engine button has a GREEN LED when I press and hold the brake. However, the dashboard is not on at all. Only the engine light is on, when I try to start it.

I cannot read the OBCD code with my generic OBCD scanner, as it keeps saying "Link Error". So that's problem #1. Any suggestion of a good OBCD II reader for this 2013 Lexus R450h is appreciated.

I am not sure if the 12V DC battery has enough juice to crank the engine. So, I guess the first thing I could try is replacing the battery. I don't think the previous owner has changed the battery, since I bought from him. I couldn't find the date when the battery was bought, I measured the voltage when the car is off, and voltage of the 12V DC battery is 7.6V. It should have at least 12.3V when not used, no?

I noticed that the battery has some sort of a small hose attached to it. If I were to replace the battery, I guess I need to get one with the hose outlet and unplug the hose from the old battery. I would appreciate any suggestion for a good battery.

I take my out once a week for a drive of 20-30 minutes, even when I don't drive it often. I guess the battery is old.
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...6c9be56533.jpg


I am hoping that it's not the starter issue.

Thank you!
https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...02273b9ed9.jpg

Battery is kaput.
Hose is hydrogen gas vent.
No one makes suitable batteries with those vents, far I know.
Here's more than extensive 12V discussion. Same battery is in your car

https://www.toyotanation.com/threads...ative.1656016/