I changed the air filter on my 2004 RX 330 and noticed an empty nipple on the vacuum hose T. (See photo.)

Empty nipple on hose T.
Am I missing a hose, or is this just an empty, "extra" nipple? (That may sound weird, but I once drove a Ford Explorer that had extra nipples with no hoses connected, and according to the dealer, that was normal.)

 

You are missing a connection. You probably will have a CEL light up.

 

Not missing.
Just came un-attached.
No cell would come on.
My brother had a 04 Camry and the nipple broke off.
Never set a cel light.
Just attach it back.

 

I will take a pic of my connections and will post when I get home tonight.

 

I look forward to seeing the photo.

 

Here is a pic of our 2004 RX330:

 

These tubes do degrade after some time and get loose and cracks. They need periodic replacement (they do last though). Went to the auto store and ans was able to get a replacement. If you went to the dealer, you would have paid a ton. They are purchased by length and are cheap. Make sure you find the right ID though, not loose but not too tight, it will be hard to install. And do not buy the plastic one (ask me why I know - they do not last), get the rubber one.

 

Thanks! That should help.

I've had a CEL and VSC for several weeks now. It was throwing P0420, which I've decided is the O2 sensors (based on my reading here). But whoever replaced the air filter last time totally bollixed the filter box: the screw threads for the first hose clamp were outside the receiving end of the clamp, and one of the two bolts sealing the filter box is missing. So all that extra air may be throwing the code. I've got to work on that this week.

Many thanks to everyone!