Hello all....Really happy I stumbled across you all. We just picked up a 99 RX300 and it threw a knock sensor code. It also had a VVT System malfunction. We have changed out the .95 Autolite plugs that were in it with some spendy Bosch plugs. The ignition coils seem to be working fine as well.
We stripped the manifolds off and are now replacing a leaking coolant hose and in the process going after the knock Sensors.
My main question is..........Should I spend the money on OEM Lexus or will Autozone or NAPA Knock sensor work?


Thanks all,
Joe

 

Welcome to CL.

I ask every new member to read the sticky threads and owners manual.

If you do, you would find out that we highly recommend all essential stuff to be OEM. For electrical/electronics the exception would be light bulbs. That would mean take the Bosh plugs out.

Why would you risk a min of 4-6 hours of labor on a non-oem knock sensors.

Salim

 

Great point. Thanks much and will do.

 

Do you have a suggestion for a OE place the is less expensive than Lexus/Toyota? I have found a couple places and am calling one to make sure that what they are selling is O.E., but if the form has a recommendation.....

 

Just a question: Was the KS error one that identified a failed sensor or an excessive knock count? If the engine were producing knock due to the VVT or ignition then a properly functioning KS would "hear" the knock and the ECM would raise the error if the count were over its programmed threshold.

So did you have knock and fix it and the sensors are working fine or has one of the KSs failed?


BTW I agree with Sal. An OE KS made by Denso can be had on eBay new for

 

sorry for the double post forum is cropping off text


BTW I agree with Sal. An OE KS made by Denso can be had on eBay new for

 

We have no history on the vehicle. My son bought it at an auction as his first car and it immediately threw codes. We pulled the manifolds off and found brand new looking gaskets with one O.E. KS and one aftermarket that was in the bank that seems to have the problem. We were just going to replace both and the harness as Sal made the point of 4-6 hours (or in my case, 8-9) of work and expense. With luck, this will clear things up and the rig will be great for him through High school and college.
I didn't hear a knock but relied on the codes. I also started running Premium in it.

 

Yikes, remove them plugs ASAP! Had thought they were a good idea when I had first got my Rx... well no, they made it run like complete s#%!, I got bad mpg and within a month I had bad misfires, used the most expensive plugs NGK had and not one single problem, runs strong and my mpg's went up!

 

It is amazing to me how many T/L owners try to use Bosch electrical components on their cars despite so many Internet warnings to use only Denso/NGK. BTW, use the plugs that are specified for your car. The most expensive plugs may not be the correct plug and could lead to poor performance.