Hi. I have a 2002 rx300 and have strange problem. It won't start unless I have my code reader plugged in. If I plug it in and start it will start and run but as soon as I take it out it stops and wont start. I've check fuses and relays they are all ok.

Any ideas.

 

Welcome to Club Lexus!

Have you tried unplugging and replugging the battery?

 

My money is on a bad ground. Have you worked on anything recently? I would check both ends of the battery ground and any other ones that you can put your hands on.

 

From what I understand. As long as the car is on the battery should not be in use. Does any lights on the dash come on before it shuts off?

Turn on the dome light. When you unplug the code reader how long does the car take to shut off? Does the dome light go out? Do you hear the key in the ignition beep?

Clear any codes and remove the code reader
Unplug pos and neg on battery for a few mins then replug
If that doesn't work
Check the alternator connection