LS460L (RWD, 181K miles) Stuck in Garage - Won’t Reverse

I’m having an issue with my 2007 Lexus LS460L (RWD, 181K miles) and could use some advice. The car is stuck in the garage and won’t reverse properly. When I shift into reverse, it moves a couple of inches but then stops.

Here’s what I’ve done so far:

1. Connected Techstream and found no error codes related to the transmission.
   
2. Performed a transmission re-learn and reset, but it didn’t resolve the issue.
   
3. Been having transmission fluid leaks near the front of the transmission. However, the fluid level isn’t low—I confirmed this after performing a drain and fill procedure using Techstream to monitor the temperature.
   

Despite these efforts, the problem persists. I’m concerned that the transmission might need a rebuild, but I’d like to explore all possible diagnostic steps before resorting to that.

Has anyone experienced something similar or have suggestions for further diagnosis? Worst case, I’ll have to tow it to a mechanic for a rebuild, but I’d prefer to rule out simpler fixes first.

Thanks in advance for your help!
Jeff

 

Try adding some fluid maybe a 1-2 quarts see if it makes any difference. If it doesn't then it may be the end of the transmission.

 

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If you are in the Greater LA area, I suggest that you talk with Steve of Luxury Motorworks at steve@luxurymotorworks.com. Luxury Motorworks specialized in serving and repairing Lexus/Toyota cars. Steve is very knowledgeable and, most importantly, is willing to offer advice without pushing for sales of their services. I spoke with Steve when my coolant crossed into transmission lines due to a bad radiator. Steve was patient and offered advice on repairs. I followed his advice and DIYed the replacement of the radiator and the clean-up of the transmission and cooling system. He was very professional and didn't push for their repairs at all. Disclaim: I have no association whatsoever with Luxury Motorworks.
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How much fluid came out when you did the drain n fill?

 

Hi Gerf, about 4 quarts which would seem normal to me.

 

Unfortunately in San Francisco and not down in LA. I got a estimate from a mechanic for 2 options

(1) - salvage yard transmission - $3500
(2) - Re-Manufactured transmission - $6000, 2 year guarantee

Do you fellas have any thoughts to help with my decision? I have seen some historical advice pointing to the salvage option.

 

I just was looking at picknpull.com and their price for a used trans for a 460 is $250 USD, assuming it was a good one. $3,250 is kinda high for R&R.

 

You made sure your e-brake isn't stuck on right ??

 

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Do the costs of the above two options include labor? If labor is included, it doesn't look too bad for SF area. The decision depends on how much longer you plan to keep the car. If you plan to keep the car for another 4-5 years or more, Option 2, a re-manufactured transmission sourced from Lexus, seems to make sense. BTW, Bell Lexus sells a new LS460 transmission assembly for $4,561.61 with a core swap of $1000 (i.e., you'll need to send them your old transmission after the swap): https://parts.belllexusnorthscottsda...105017084.html. If you don't plan to keep the car for too long, Option 1 makes sense, as the life-span of a used transmission depends on luck. And if you select Option 2 (a new transmission), consider replacing the engine rear seal when you replace your transmission. Once the transmission is removed, the cost of replacing the engine rear seal is limited to just the part (i.e., the Lexus OE rear seal Part Number 9031195013 at $38) and minimum labor cost.
PS, I agree with Gerf. Make sure that it is not your brake system that causes the problem before replacing the transmission. LS460 transmission is usually mechanically durable, although the transmission front seal often breaks down after 150K miles.
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Unfortunately, I wish it was that easy. I confirmed it was not the electronic parking brake. Tried in auto mode and manually releasing.

 

How bout jacking up both rear wheels and seeing if they turn in neutral ?

 

Hi Gerf, finally had a chance to do your test.

With the rear wheels jacked up, the rear wheels seem to move fine in reverse, neutral and drive. It is when I apply the brakes where I hear a thumping noise in back and the wheels stop.

Maybe it isn't a transmission issue?

 

Maybe I didn't word that suggestion clearly, my bad.

NM, just re- read post 10. What did it do when you put the car in gear running or did you try that?

 

When I put the car in gear (like reverse), it moves back fine until I touch the brake. I would hear a thumping noise and the wheels lock in place. When I move drive forward, there is no issues getting the car to move though.

When I was pushing the car out of the garage in neutral, the car would roll until it locked up after touching the brake. When the wheels are locked (either after in reverse or neutral), I had to put in transmission in Drive, and the car would move forward again. Even if I move the car forward for a couple of inches, I can subsequent roll the car in reverse or neutral.

 

I would take the rotors off and look at the e-brake shoes, sound like some kind of abnormal servo action going on in there. From when it locks up can you drive forward?

Damn, have to start reading all of the posts haha.