bornking

Driving last night and my radio signal seemed to scramble, then the radio died...even the lights turned off on it.

Strange.

I turned it back on, and it was ok for 5 minutes. Then the same thing. Dies.

A few minutes later I get a check battery light, and the interior lights (center console) seemed to flicker...

I drove home keeping the revs above 1,500 (putting it in neutral at red lights to do so), and as I was parking the check battery light came on again (keeping revs above 1,000 would keep that check battery light off).

Without calling CAA (AAA in the US) and getting the battery tested and replaced, anything else I can look into?

I think the alternator is ok as it was charging the battery somewhat...but I don't have a multimeter to check either one on my own

aptoslexus

Does it even need to be mentioned that battery connections are the first thing to check? Loose fittings, corrosion, etc.

bornking

As soon as it's light out I'll check the connections.

Thank you!

bornking

Update:

Connections checked. They are ok.
CAA checked my battery, it is a Kirkland 700CCA and 2013 model. It checked out too....
CAA guy says it's probably the alternator (damn).
Car starts on it's own.

Thoughts?

bornking

Repair Pal estimates (although not for GTA Toronto Canada) ~$400-$554 for an alternator replacement...

Alternator Replacement for your 2000 Lexus LS400 near 14174
RepairPrice EstimateTM
$391 to $554
Customized for your location
How much should I pay?
Estimate includes:
Labor

$86-$109
Parts (excludes tax & fees)

$305-$445

bornking

Called Toyota.
Alternator is a Lexus only part.
~$800-$900 for the PART alone.
Toyota recommended an aftermarket part lol.
Calling my mechanic next to see if he can get an OEM or aftermarket.
Oy vey.

Could it be something else?
The CAA guy says the charging system seemed to cut in and out.........
Maybe I just need a better diagnosis (could be wires or connections at alternator maybe?)...

I'm not a car expert so any advice is greatly appreciated

bornking

Update 2:
Napa Canada has 2 alternators:

1. Remanufactured: $410 including a $50 core charge
2. New: $450...no core charge.

UNCNOR

iTrader: (1)

Toyota Canada or Toyota US?First time I've heard of a "Lexus only" part.

bornking

Toyota Canada
The service adviser Strongly recommended an aftermarket part.
Any experience with them?

swfla

iTrader: (1)

Ebay is a terrific source of Denso (OEM) alternators. Rebuilt (just as good) will save you considerable money. I imagine there are Canadian sellers as well as US sellers. I don't know if overnight or 2 day shipping will push the price higher than locally sourced alternators. IMO it's worth looking into.

aptoslexus

Words like "seemed" aren't terribly useful. First thing I'd do is take the cables off the battery posts and use a battery post cleaner (a couple bucks at the auto parts store) or wire brush and thoroughly clean the posts and cables. Then get a multi-meter and check the battery/alternator with and without load. Here's a couple of how-to videos:


I've seen alternators on ebay for about $100. Maybe an hour of labor to change it. $250 ballpark for the whole job. Unless you do it yourself.

timmy0tool

iTrader: (7)

yep sounds like your alternator needs replacing or rebuilding. denso reman is they way to go, unless you want to upgrade for more juice to run extra accessories like a sound system.

aptoslexus

Maybe it's the alternator. In 37 years of driving, I've replaced one. Battery connection is at the top of the list. I've had no crank/no start situations from battery connections that looked ok. After cleaning, instant crank and start. Just because it looks ok, doesn't mean it's ok. Most of the time, it's the connection at the battery.

UNCNOR

iTrader: (1)

Buy your reman Denso alternator from rockauto.com.Low prices and fast low cost shipping.

bornking

Great advice! Thank you!

Update,

CAA already tested the battery and pointed towards the charging system (alternator) as suspect.
My mechanic tested it without me telling him what's wrong (let him figure it out independently).
He stated it was a bad alternator as well.
Found me a new one for $350.
Now Lucille the Lexus is good as new!

Thank you very much team CL!