2004 RX 330 amp vs battery problem

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Mar 18, 2010 | 09:37 PM

sickntired

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From: Wisconsin

2004 RX 330 amp vs battery problem

My RX wouldn't start this AM -- just heard clicking. I was able to jump it successfully. I have a Optima Red Top that I put in 6/08.

I took the car to my dealer to have it checked out -- they said the battery was bad and recommended replacement. Their test showed that the battery was only putting out 8 volts! They also tested the alternator and said that it was ok.

I had purchased the battery at BatteriesPlus so I took it there to have them check it and replace it under warranty if it was defective. They check it with their tester and it showed the battery was putting out 12+ volts but the tester also showed that the alternator current was less than 30 amps so he said the alternator is bad.

Who am I to believe? I feel uncomfortable not knowing as this is my wife's car and I don't want her stranded somewhere.

Thanks for your help.

Mar 18, 2010 | 11:45 PM

RTIS250

Yes. I drove the LFA.

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From: Lexus

Honestly, Optimas are junk. Ive had them in the past, and i have them now (one in my RX7 and one in my truck), but i use Yellowtops. The alternator may have charged the battery to a point where it could pass a test at the other shop, but probably wont hold the charge. I had similar problems with my old Redtop. Were they getting 30 amps at idle or 1500+ rpm? Idle amperage usually doesnt get beyond 50-75 amps.. Depending on their testing method or equipment, it could be bad or not at all. If your lights, stereo, etc are all working normally with the car running, then i doubt you have a bad alternator. If you did, your lights would be dim, and the battery light would be lit on the dash. That light comes on below 12 or so volts i think. You likely have a bad cell in the Optima, and they just dont want to warranty it.

Mar 19, 2010 | 06:56 AM

sickntired

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From: Wisconsin

Thanks for the reply.

I spoke to my service rep at Lexus again and he still believes that the alternator is fine since there are no lights on the dash. So it's probably the battery but I'll have trouble proving it's the battery, right? I'd rather not continue to take chances daily with the car not starting so I'll probably just buy another battery. What brand does everyone like to use or should I just get another Lexus OEM battery which is $105.

Mar 19, 2010 | 06:32 PM

RTIS250

Yes. I drove the LFA.

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From: Lexus

The OEM Lexus batteries are pretty good, and if you get it from them, they will have it on record, and be able to take care of any warranty claims, if one should arrise. The OEM batteries have 572CCA i beleive, not quite what an Optima has, but you really dont need more.