groovynewv

I have a 2002 RX300 that started acting like it had low transmission fluid. It would randomly rev up with out engaging (in gear but not going anywhere), and then as rpms decreased it would "slam" into gear. Then some crunchy noise that eventually clears and the vehicle drives fine.
I checked fluid level, topped off and it was good. The problem described above persisted...randomly.... until the vehicle just quit the other day.
When the tow truck guy was taking it off the rollback, he put it in neutral to coast off the inclined rollback, and the car didn't budge. He thought maybe the front axle(s) might be bad.

I have been assuming it was a transmission issue as it was acting like a tranny does when fluid is low, but the problem persisted after the fluid level was topped off.

Have any of you experienced full axle failure, and if so what does that look like?

Thanks!
David

fastnoypi

when axles fail, usually the cv boots fail and signs of grease slinging around. Popping noises as well from the cv joint sections. your situation sounds more like a transmission problem