steering wheel won't tilt when key is inserted
 

Hi guys,
My 1997 LS 400 steering wheel won't tilt down when the key is inserted (but telescopes) -- when I try to move the wheel down button with the button on the column, I hear a buzzing sound. everything else on the car seems to work just fine. Any suggestions?

The plastic gear must be worn out, I fixed mine by adding two washers to offset it closer to center. Search, and you will find pretty good pictures.

thanks,
i'll try that

I disable this feature. I know it is only a matter of time the gear is going to break and will cost me. That feature is a revenue generator for Lexus service dept.:D

I think I've got it fixed without pulling down the steering column.

I put the key in the ignition, and moved the adjuster buttton downwards 10 times, and the steering started to move down and into the correct driving position. It also returns to the exit position on removing the key.

It's a quick fix and is worth a try before embarking on a more extensive project.

I hope that this fix lasts-- if it doesn't, I'll let you know.

How did you disable it?
That is going to be the next fix if it ever gives me any more trouble!

I used a couple of hose washers to get the gear teeth to line up with the gear and in about 15 minutes it was as good as new.By the way I am in no way a mechanic so if I can fix it anyone can.I believe a new motor for the tilt is about $550.

I used to have a '94 but that was easy : just turn off the switch; I don't know about the '97, but for '98, you have to take it to the dealer and they plug in a hand held thing to the OBDII port to change the setting (takes less than one minute); I guess it is the same with the '97. the mechanics told me Lexus eliminate the on/off switch to save money.:eek2:

steering wheel won't tilt
 

Does any one have any idea where I could find pictures on how to get to the tilt motor gears in the steering column of the 1997 LS 400? I am going to try and realign the gears, as the motor is still working.

Thanks.

Check out the sticky titled 1995-2000 FAQ.It has tuturials for a bunch of things.PureDrifter has done a great job putting this all together.:thumbup:

Shoot I think I may stop using this feature too even though it is sick and I absolutely love it! :( It works perfectly but don't want her to brake on me.

hahah, thanks but all i did was put the links to those tuts in one place, the real thanks goes to the guys (other than myself) that put those tutorials together. :)

I have owned the LS-400 for 20 years but don't know how to disable the future. I would like to. Thank you

Pull the fuse.

Just wondering if you disable it are you still able to move it around? Mine works fine however when it gets hot out my motor seems to work for a short time then stop. Once it cools down it starts to work again.