Let me give you the low down..last week my 99 RX300 when putting the key in to start did nothing at first try, then I try it again and it starts. It was almost like a dead battery at first try when starting, but I have a new battery. So it did this about three other times in the past week. This morning I go to start it and at first try to start nothing..then I turn the key again and it was like a high pitch starting noise...I turn the key off and take it out of the ignition and it continued to make that noise like it was trying to start...in fear of starter burning up...I unplug the battery to get it to stop. It is like my ignition is stuck on...and it will not stop unless I kill the battery. This happens with key out of the ignition. Has anyone had this problem? Any suggestions?

Thanks!
Holly

 

it actually sounds like a bad starter, or a starter going bad. Mine did the same thing. It's still got the factory starter...

 

"nothing" needs more explanation...
clicking sound, starter spinning, engine turning over but not catching etc etc.

From the later part of the post it seems your solenoid is stuck "on". I would take a rubber mallet and strike the starter/solenoid [cylindrical piece piggy backed on the starter]. Please do NOT strike the starter directly with a hammer. What you are trying to do is jar the stuck mechanism to dislodge.

Once it gets free, take it to a mechanic. If you search the old posts you will find some instructions on how to replace the starter .. if you are DIY type.


Salim

 

Were you able to replace yourself or did you have to take it to Lexus? Thanks Tamp!

 

It is more of a starter spinning noise...a high pitched noise.

Thanks for the tip..I will try to dislodge it and hopefully get it started and take to a mechanic. I will check out the post on how to replace the starter. I am not sure if I better try this myself, lol.

Thanks again!

 

Tamp and Salim...you are awesome! It was my starter $180 from Auto Zone and had it installed within an hour...thanks to your advice.

Thank you sooooo much! : )

 

Was it new,or rebuilt? And did you get a good warranty?

 

Hey Lexus114...It was new, and it is has a "Life Time" warranty. So it says anyway.

 

Sounds like you did well.