Hello,

I recently purchased a 2017 IS200T with about 39k miles on it a few months ago and it randomly has an issue with hard starts. It will turn over for 3-4 seconds before finally catching. Once it starts though it doesnt have any stutter or stalling. The throttle response is crap but I cant tell if thats just the car or another issue. I know the previous years had a fuel pump recall but when I called the dealer they said my year did not. Rock Auto has the fuel pump at like $2,000+ so I'm hoping thats not it. Any one else have this same issue or any Lexus mechanics have any advice? Thanks in advance!!

Seth

 

Hey Seth, the throttle response could just be the car - the 200t's are known to have a decent amount of lag in the pedal - even in the 350 there's some delay, but it's more noticeable on the turbo engine. A couple things came to mind - the battery and the starter. Do you know if either has ever been replaced?

 

It sounds like the battery, get it tested and replaced ASAP.

Concerning the throttle response, assuming its not the typical vacuum regulator, get a D3 Performance tune and it will provide a huge improvement.

 

Concur – I've got the D3 tune, their turbo muffler delete kit, an Injen cold-air intake, and replaced vacuum regulator/hose. The throttle response is pretty good now. But sometimes I'll drive my mom's N.A. Chevy Traverse and it reminds me of responsiveness I can never have. The throttle response will never be great. OP will want to look at other manufacturers if they want a thrilling driving experience.

As for the hard start: do you (OP) know if the previous owner used good gas? Have you used any fuel system cleaner (like Liqui-Moli pro-line or Royal Purple's) ? Yes the 8AR-FTS has dual injection, but the direct injectors can still get clogged if you're using ****ty (read: cheapest) fuels.

 

Check the battery, I remember the dealership having to change mines within 2 years of ownership. Months before changing it, I noticed the car taking a bit longer to actually start up. I have close to the same mileage as you so I'm assuming I will need to have my battery changed soon as well. Just as a preventative maintenance.

 

I tested the battery yesterday on a machine at NAPA and it said it was good. I dont know how reliable those testers are however. I know on the old systems there was fuel prime done when the key was in accessory position. Does this engine just stay under pressure? I feel like if its not the battery then it has to be a fuel prime issue. It doesnt stutter or run rough once started so it cant be the fuel pump.

 

I ran seafoam through it and it didnt appear to make a difference but I will try one of your suggestions.

 

Did you ever look at the spark plugs? Turbo's generally wear them out faster even if they are iridium off the bat. Spark plugs should be a 40k mile item to change on the car which every can get varying mileage, for everyone.

 

I havent yet but probably something I need to change anyway. Hadn't really occured to me as spark plugs would be bad all the time and not just at start up. Its an intriguing problem for sure.

 

I have the same problem with my car. Millage 60k
is 300 2018. There is some problems with the engine start (no matter how long it has been staying). Did anybody solve this problem?
as I can see after searching info in many forums a lot of people have the same problem.