okay, i need some help. i'm trying to remember what problem i'm REALLY having. the last few times that i've started my car, it hasn't started. i just get that click. but then i'll try it a few more times, it'll click, and then the final time it starts right up, no problem. does this mean there is a problem with my starter? alternator? both? how much should i expect this sort of repair to run? fyi i haven't been to the lexus dealership for service in a awhile. i have gotten all my maintenance done at a toyota dealership.

 

From you profile you got a 98 GS400. The starter for all the Lexus V-8 is located underneath the intake. The labor to remove the intake and the starter will be around 4-5 hrs+ part, the total may cost you around $700-800.00.

 

is that an estimate using Lexus labor rates?

 

Lexus labor rates from what I seen is anywhere from 90-100 dollars an hour.

And there is a cheat way or shortcut to see if its your alternator acting up or not. Start your car and leave it idling once the car is running smoothly remove the negative from the battery. If your alternator is fine there should be no noticeable effect from disconecting the battery once the car is running. If your car passes this test then It is most likely starter related.

 

Based on your description, the problem almost certainly is your starter motor. The 'click' that you hear is the starter solenoid making contact when you turn the key, however, the starter fails to turn because solid contact is not made between the terminals. Eventually, the starter does turn because sufficient contact is made. Your problem will not get better over time, only worse, so you need to replace/rebuild your starter motor.

Good luck!

 

thanks for the feedback