Thinking of buying my friends 1999 RX300. It has a few problems with it (like the factory alarm going off when outside temps are to hot) but i have heard and read that this seems to be a recurring problem in a lot of Lexus(with the engine light). We dont have a Lexus dealership in town but heard that Autozone can do the diagnostic to get the code needed. Is there a most common problem with it like the Bank 1 or Bank 2 sensor? Are these sensors easy to change also? Anything that anyone can tell me would help me out. I just dont want to buy something and have to put a lot of money back into right off the bat. Thanks for your help

 

Before you possibly ruin your friendship keep the bigger picture in view.

1. The issues you see posted far out number the "good exerience" posts that no one takes the time to write about.

2. Lexus are the most expensive Japanese vehicles to repair/maintain. They are a notch below European. So dont be shocked if the shop presents you repair bill amost $1000.

3. If you are looking at vehicle past the warranty period, the manufacturer is saying you are on your own now. Expected life time of the system (not just one component) is over.

4. Rx300 are now old horses. Some may be ready to put out to the pasture.

5. Poor maintenance and abuse in the past could be disasturous.

6. When I say abuse, it could be un-intended. ex: People who idle warm RX think the tranny is warmed up and push the RX to 65mph when it would not release the high gear.

7. Check engine light is mother of all warnings. It can be as simple as Gas cap not on properly or ???.

Salim

 

Salim highlights very important issues to consider. I would heed them.

To change out O2 sensors you may in the case of the sensor behind the engine (Bank 1, Sensor 1) need to really be like a snake sneaking underneath or getting someone with a lift where you can do the repair. I haven't done it personally yet on my RX300 (but have on other vehicles with my uncle), but there are a few people who here who can give you advice from their experience on their RXs. Bank 1 is more prone to issues than Bank 2, Sensor 1 (Front one you can see on the manifold when you look at the engine bay.

As I have always said on this forum , if you are able to get your hands on the OBDII scanner and get the code, I will be happy to go over it with you.

 

that check engine light could be the the gas cap BUT!!!!!!! more thant like its the a/f sensors. Easily $250 each for sensors + labor. Additional my alarm has never gone off without reason. that car maybe ready to graze. i am now doing 90K service = $1536. Ouch!!! this include replacing water pump. i know not required but i am not going back into my engine for another 90k.

 

Thanks for all the input so far!!!

John

 

Slighty OT but how does the 90k service come out to 1536? Isnt it just the pump and timing belt? I got a quote of 811 including parts and labor. Just curious.