Few questions on 'knock sensors'??
12-03-08, 05:46 AM
#16
Lexus Test Driver
Wow!!!!
There are plenty of people that mean well with the "advice" they give. It just seems that the ones that know the least always seem to know it the loudest and just love to chime in quickly.
The knock sensors have no relation to the VSC system, fuel grade used also has no influence on the longevity of knock sensors. VSC and Trac Off coming on without any other lights is more than likely going to be related to a wheel speed sensor fault. There are other possibilities though, it needs to be scanned by a facility that has the proper scanner to communicate with the TCS/VSC/ABS controller. That will give a code related to those lights coming on. Most shops are not going to have the proper software to communicate with that system on their scan tool.
I currently do freelance work as a diagnostic tech for local repair shops and dealerships, that is one of the biggest problems I go in to solve...people not knowing what relates to particular systems and just making blind guesses rather than facing the fact that they are not fully equipped to diagnose a particular car. Sometimes it is the lack of proper scan tool for the car, other times it is general lack of common sense. The scan tools are very expensive on software upgrades and there are only a couple that will handle the Lexus VSC, it is most likely not cost effective for them to upgrade to the one needed so I can't fault them there. However, I can say they were negligent in thinking a knock sensor code was causing those lights. If the service engine light was on as well as the VSC /Trac off, that could create a possible link, not likely though.
Get it to someone with the proper tools and information.you're wasting dollars while trying to save a nickel in this case.
The knock sensors have no relation to the VSC system, fuel grade used also has no influence on the longevity of knock sensors. VSC and Trac Off coming on without any other lights is more than likely going to be related to a wheel speed sensor fault. There are other possibilities though, it needs to be scanned by a facility that has the proper scanner to communicate with the TCS/VSC/ABS controller. That will give a code related to those lights coming on. Most shops are not going to have the proper software to communicate with that system on their scan tool.
I currently do freelance work as a diagnostic tech for local repair shops and dealerships, that is one of the biggest problems I go in to solve...people not knowing what relates to particular systems and just making blind guesses rather than facing the fact that they are not fully equipped to diagnose a particular car. Sometimes it is the lack of proper scan tool for the car, other times it is general lack of common sense. The scan tools are very expensive on software upgrades and there are only a couple that will handle the Lexus VSC, it is most likely not cost effective for them to upgrade to the one needed so I can't fault them there. However, I can say they were negligent in thinking a knock sensor code was causing those lights. If the service engine light was on as well as the VSC /Trac off, that could create a possible link, not likely though.
Get it to someone with the proper tools and information.you're wasting dollars while trying to save a nickel in this case.
12-03-08, 11:40 AM
#17
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There are plenty of people that mean well with the "advice" they give. It just seems that the ones that know the least always seem to know it the loudest and just love to chime in quickly.
The knock sensors have no relation to the VSC system, fuel grade used also has no influence on the longevity of knock sensors. VSC and Trac Off coming on without any other lights is more than likely going to be related to a wheel speed sensor fault. There are other possibilities though, it needs to be scanned by a facility that has the proper scanner to communicate with the TCS/VSC/ABS controller. That will give a code related to those lights coming on. Most shops are not going to have the proper software to communicate with that system on their scan tool.
I currently do freelance work as a diagnostic tech for local repair shops and dealerships, that is one of the biggest problems I go in to solve...people not knowing what relates to particular systems and just making blind guesses rather than facing the fact that they are not fully equipped to diagnose a particular car. Sometimes it is the lack of proper scan tool for the car, other times it is general lack of common sense. The scan tools are very expensive on software upgrades and there are only a couple that will handle the Lexus VSC, it is most likely not cost effective for them to upgrade to the one needed so I can't fault them there. However, I can say they were negligent in thinking a knock sensor code was causing those lights. If the service engine light was on as well as the VSC /Trac off, that could create a possible link, not likely though.
Get it to someone with the proper tools and information.you're wasting dollars while trying to save a nickel in this case.
The knock sensors have no relation to the VSC system, fuel grade used also has no influence on the longevity of knock sensors. VSC and Trac Off coming on without any other lights is more than likely going to be related to a wheel speed sensor fault. There are other possibilities though, it needs to be scanned by a facility that has the proper scanner to communicate with the TCS/VSC/ABS controller. That will give a code related to those lights coming on. Most shops are not going to have the proper software to communicate with that system on their scan tool.
I currently do freelance work as a diagnostic tech for local repair shops and dealerships, that is one of the biggest problems I go in to solve...people not knowing what relates to particular systems and just making blind guesses rather than facing the fact that they are not fully equipped to diagnose a particular car. Sometimes it is the lack of proper scan tool for the car, other times it is general lack of common sense. The scan tools are very expensive on software upgrades and there are only a couple that will handle the Lexus VSC, it is most likely not cost effective for them to upgrade to the one needed so I can't fault them there. However, I can say they were negligent in thinking a knock sensor code was causing those lights. If the service engine light was on as well as the VSC /Trac off, that could create a possible link, not likely though.
Get it to someone with the proper tools and information.you're wasting dollars while trying to save a nickel in this case.
Thanks.....
12-03-08, 04:47 PM
#18
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MamiLS430: I feel for you.
2 lessons I learned re Lexi:
Certified pre-owned is worth the $ for the warranty protection even though you probably won't come out ahead. (However, see next item)
Lexi don't break often, but the cost of certain replacement parts (read computer based modules, like the Navi for example) makes a warranty a real good idea..... $1,000.00 + is not uncommon for a single module.
Vern
2 lessons I learned re Lexi:
Certified pre-owned is worth the $ for the warranty protection even though you probably won't come out ahead. (However, see next item)
Lexi don't break often, but the cost of certain replacement parts (read computer based modules, like the Navi for example) makes a warranty a real good idea..... $1,000.00 + is not uncommon for a single module.
Vern
Last edited by tvdias; 12-03-08 at 04:54 PM.
12-03-08, 08:47 PM
#19
Lead Lap
Finding a good indie shop is another matter. Lexus LS cars are quite complex. People who work on them every day know what to look for. If your repair shop in Branson isn't working on Lexus LS cars every day, I'd say just put your car on a flatbed truck and have it taken to the Lexus dealer in Springfield. Consider looking for an indie shop in Springfield.
It can be difficult keeping a car running properly if you don't have a competent repair shop nearby. I'll never forget the hell of owning my first Mercedes while living over 125 miles from the nearest Mercedes dealer.
If you regularly spend time in the Kansas City area, PM me for information about the indie Lexus repair shop I use. People drive some fairly long distances to have their cars serviced there.
The problem with certified Lexus cars is that dealers sometimes price certified cars so high that the certification is simply not cost effective. I bought my current non-certified LS in 2003 from a broker for fully $8,000 less than similar certified cars were being sold for at the Lexus dealer. $8,000 could have paid for a lot of repairs if I had any that weren't covered under the existing basic warranty. Regardless, I didn't have a single issue that would have been covered by an extended warranty between the time the basic and drive train warranties expired and 100,000 miles which has been the mileage limit on the extended warranties I've been offered.
12-03-08, 09:53 PM
#20
Lexus Test Driver
Oh yeah!!!! I agree with all your points!
MamiLS430: I feel for you.
2 lessons I learned re Lexi:
Certified pre-owned is worth the $ for the warranty protection even though you probably won't come out ahead. (However, see next item)
Lexi don't break often, but the cost of certain replacement parts (read computer based modules, like the Navi for example) makes a warranty a real good idea..... $1,000.00 + is not uncommon for a single module.
Vern
2 lessons I learned re Lexi:
Certified pre-owned is worth the $ for the warranty protection even though you probably won't come out ahead. (However, see next item)
Lexi don't break often, but the cost of certain replacement parts (read computer based modules, like the Navi for example) makes a warranty a real good idea..... $1,000.00 + is not uncommon for a single module.
Vern
I would love to get all Lexus owners to buy certified pre-owned but, respect peoples wishes to buy in a way that makes them feel comfortable so, i'll just hope things turn out ok for those who go private or non Lexus dealer for their cars! All the best to those who do what they have to do and Miami LS, things will get better with your car after these issues are cleared up, this car is great to own!
12-03-08, 10:02 PM
#21
Lexus Test Driver
I can respect that!
An independent non-dealer repair shop can be an excellent choice for even the most major issues if it has a staff that is experienced in the repair of Lexus vehicles. For example, the service of the indie Lexus repair shop I been using here in Kansas for the past 10 years is head and shoulders above the local Lexus dealership in price, quality and especially ethics.
Finding a good indie shop is another matter. Lexus LS cars are quite complex. People who work on them every day know what to look for. If your repair shop in Branson isn't working on Lexus LS cars every day, I'd say just put your car on a flatbed truck and have it taken to the Lexus dealer in Springfield. Consider looking for an indie shop in Springfield.
It can be difficult keeping a car running properly if you don't have a competent repair shop nearby. I'll never forget the hell of owning my first Mercedes while living over 125 miles from the nearest Mercedes dealer.
If you regularly spend time in the Kansas City area, PM me for information about the indie Lexus repair shop I use. People drive some fairly long distances to have their cars serviced there.
The problem with certified Lexus cars is that dealers sometimes price certified cars so high that the certification is simply not cost effective. I bought my current non-certified LS in 2003 from a broker for fully $8,000 less than similar certified cars were being sold for at the Lexus dealer. $8,000 could have paid for a lot of repairs if I had any that weren't covered under the existing basic warranty. Regardless, I didn't have a single issue that would have been covered by an extended warranty between the time the basic and drive train warranties expired and 100,000 miles which has been the mileage limit on the extended warranties I've been offered.
Finding a good indie shop is another matter. Lexus LS cars are quite complex. People who work on them every day know what to look for. If your repair shop in Branson isn't working on Lexus LS cars every day, I'd say just put your car on a flatbed truck and have it taken to the Lexus dealer in Springfield. Consider looking for an indie shop in Springfield.
It can be difficult keeping a car running properly if you don't have a competent repair shop nearby. I'll never forget the hell of owning my first Mercedes while living over 125 miles from the nearest Mercedes dealer.
If you regularly spend time in the Kansas City area, PM me for information about the indie Lexus repair shop I use. People drive some fairly long distances to have their cars serviced there.
The problem with certified Lexus cars is that dealers sometimes price certified cars so high that the certification is simply not cost effective. I bought my current non-certified LS in 2003 from a broker for fully $8,000 less than similar certified cars were being sold for at the Lexus dealer. $8,000 could have paid for a lot of repairs if I had any that weren't covered under the existing basic warranty. Regardless, I didn't have a single issue that would have been covered by an extended warranty between the time the basic and drive train warranties expired and 100,000 miles which has been the mileage limit on the extended warranties I've been offered.
I know I spend more going to the dealership but, Im more of a peace of mind guy. When my service isn't done right or they do something wrong the dealer here doesn't charge me and they have given me free items(battery is one) for my car. I again see your point and respect it and if I decide to stop paying so much for service I will look u up on this site for advice bro. Thanks for the advice you gave Miami LS as well she can use it being her first Lexus and were a family and we should help each other. Great advice bro!
L.G.N.M
12-04-08, 03:26 PM
#22
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My Lexus is home and (crossing fingers) hope that the problem has been solved. I drove it home on one breath, then let a big sigh of relief when I pulled into my driveway. So it seems it was the knock sensor and wiring harness. When they called to tell me it was ready, I nearly fainted. They told me they drove it a couple of times to make sure and all the lights are off.
A 'BIG' THANKS to all you great people for seeing me through this. I hope to have continued good news with my new car!! I feel liked I have made some friends here and now recognize the regulars. Any problems and some of you will hear from me again.
Muchas Gracias....Lucy
04-03-17, 10:58 AM
#23
Driver School Candidate
I need help my GS430 knock sensor code
I keep getting the same knock sensor code, once a erase the code the car drives fine but once I start giving him more gas or full throttle the code comes back on and the car basically goes into a limp mode I've read of people changing the knock sensor and in reality that is not the case the code will then come back again with the new knock sensors on. I would like to know if maybe something else is making the sensor go off or it could really be a faulty sensor. I just want to rule out all other things before removing the intake manifold to get to it. Any thoughts or help is greatly appreciated the car only has 103k miles and recently done the timing belt water pump and tensioners and spark plugs
04-03-17, 11:07 AM
#24
Lexus Fanatic
I keep getting the same knock sensor code, once a erase the code the car drives fine but once I start giving him more gas or full throttle the code comes back on and the car basically goes into a limp mode I've read of people changing the knock sensor and in reality that is not the case the code will then come back again with the new knock sensors on. I would like to know if maybe something else is making the sensor go off or it could really be a faulty sensor. I just want to rule out all other things before removing the intake manifold to get to it. Any thoughts or help is greatly appreciated the car only has 103k miles and recently done the timing belt water pump and tensioners and spark plugs
04-03-17, 12:29 PM
#25
Lexus Champion
04-03-17, 07:21 PM
#27
Lexus Champion
Knock sensor costs $178 each, and the LS430 has 2 of these. You have to remove the intake manifold to get to the sensors. You will have to unplug a bunch of plastic electrical connectors which will likely to crumble in your hands. Finally, you will need a pair of new manifold gaskets at $21 each. I would estimate 3-4 hours to do this project. Attached is the replacement procedures.
04-03-17, 10:06 PM
#28
Driver School Candidate
bank 1 sensor P0325 i just don't want to do the labor and replace the sensor and the code comes back because its something else but nobody can figure put what that something else is and i do not want to do the infamous hack everyone seems to be doing either by splicing wires from the good sensor to the bad one I JUST WANT A LEGITMENT FIX
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