Jerking transmission and blinking check engine light causing poor engine performance
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 6
Likes: 1
From: NC
Jerking transmission and blinking check engine light causing poor engine performance
I have a 2003 Lexus RX 300 with 182,000 miles. Recently bought from the auction and I’ve had issues with since purchase. Transmission jerks from 2nd to 3rd if you’re not at exactly 2000 rpm and engine has recently began performing badly with shaking at idle when in drive and when reversing. I’m going to get it checked out once I get back home but wondered if anyone had the same issue. I’m assuming it’s a misfire due to faulty fuel injectors because I’ve never had more than 15mpg average since owning vehicle.
CL Community Team
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 16,524
Likes: 1,375
From: Austin, TX
Does your CEL light come on during self test [the first time you turn the key from ACC to RUN]?
When the engine is running does the CEL light up? If so what codes show up when you connect the RX to OBDII reader?
Salim
When the engine is running does the CEL light up? If so what codes show up when you connect the RX to OBDII reader?
Salim
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 6
Likes: 1
From: NC
Yes it does and yes it lights up and blinks repeatedly for about a 30 seconds then goes solid but I haven’t gotten back home yet to get the codes checked.
CL Community Team
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 16,524
Likes: 1,375
From: Austin, TX
That is most likely misfire.
Timing, spark plugs, ignition coils are suspect.
Plugs are supposed to be changed at 110K miles. Make sure you only buy OEM. Timing belt 90K [I would also replace roller/tensioner and check water pump]
The question you have to deal with is ... what would you spend to do the basic stuff and then be ready to spend more on things you might keep finding more. But I guess, you knew that, when you bought the vehicle from auction.
Salim
Timing, spark plugs, ignition coils are suspect.
Plugs are supposed to be changed at 110K miles. Make sure you only buy OEM. Timing belt 90K [I would also replace roller/tensioner and check water pump]
The question you have to deal with is ... what would you spend to do the basic stuff and then be ready to spend more on things you might keep finding more. But I guess, you knew that, when you bought the vehicle from auction.
Salim
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
vivawafs
RX - 1st Gen (1999-2003)
6
Oct 26, 2015 01:11 PM