Madsci625

I don't know if it's the hot temperatures but it seems like when I'm starting my car when the engine is cold, the starter is being energized for too long by the ECU and it causes the engine/starter to make a obnoxious sound because the starter is still being energized after the engine is running. I would say the start sequence is about 0.25-0.5 s too long right now. I don't remember this being as annoying as during the winter and it is not nearly as bad if the engine is warm.

Anyone have this issue as well? Is there anything Lexus can do to tweak this? Is this harmless or should I be concerned?

dojoman

iTrader: (5)

It's the cold start cam shaft issue. There's a long thread here. TSIB will fix it, I have the same noise. It comes and goes but does not harm the engine according to dealer. It's a complicated TSIB, see 30+ pages long pdf. Not for the faint of heart.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...d-threads.html

Madsci625

Son of a ***** that's it exactly. Looks like at some point I'm going to have to drop off the car at the Lexus dealer for them to repair this.

So you say they claim it won't impact the engine life?

dojoman

iTrader: (5)

It's part of the engine design for fuel efficiency, will not hurt the engine. Usually happens when oil level is low, seems about right since my oil change time is almost up. Check your oil level.

AdioKIP

I had the same issue on my 06. Unless you have the extended warranty I would take the car in sooner than later since most 06's are almost out of warranty now.

Madsci625

I'll check the oil level tonight...

I bought it used from the dealer (Lexus Certified Used). I know one of the warranties is until 3 year or up until 100k (basic?). When does the original powertrain warranty end?

dojoman

iTrader: (5)

This falls under power train warranty. I believe is 7 yrs 10000miles. You should be fine. You better record the sound clip because they may want to hear it. I had to play mine otherwise they might be hesitant to do this since it's a major job.

Madsci625

Ok (I assume you meant 100k miles). I was planning on capturing it with my phone (video+audio) to show them so they will at least keep it overnight to let the oil drain from the VVTi valve so it makes the obnoxious noise. Maybe I'll try and get them to replace the loose rearview mirror while they are at it. It sucks because the closest Lexus dealer is 1 h away. I assume that they'll give me a loaner but I should probably clear that up before I drive there...

dojoman

iTrader: (5)

oh yeah you will need loaner for sure. it's 1-2 days job.

Madsci625

Oil level is right at the MAX level mark so clearly it has nothing to do with that...

Bichon

Probably what he meant, but he is mistaken. The powertrain warranty is 72 months (6 years) / 70,000 miles.

taejin09

my warranty for it is out 87k miles on my car... any help?

ekwlee

is this for the 08 250 too? i hear the same exact crap..once in a while it comes on after a cold start..happens about once a week

Madsci625

I just read about the valve spring issue. I guess I should wait until that gets sorted out and have it all fixed at once, huh? I'm nowhere close to the end of my powertrain warranty (57k miles).

Also, are the fuel door and trunk buttons supposed to light up? Mine do not...