Regarding lubrications. Unfortunately many of the component are hidden from access by the surrounding trunk garnish pieces, but you can lubricate some parts by stopping the top at various times during its cycle.
I don’t know of an actual schedule suggested/recommended by Lexus. But I do inspect it at irregular intervals as my top goes down nearly every time I drive the car. When I do decide to lubricate the hinged parts I use white automotive lithium grease.

 

To lubricate your roof components. Here:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc4...ing-in-sc.html

Starting post #5. Thanks to Coleroad.

 

BTW we are back at it with the top not closing. Looking at fuses now. Thanks for your recommendations.

 

I doubt the fuse(s) are the issue. From the information you’ve posted it seems to be intermittent problem pointing to one of the many sensors rather than fuses. The only way to know is to capture the diagnostic trouble code, or DTC. Unfortunately DTCs are not stored thus they must be read during a movement failure.
I’ve previously posted the sliding roof DTCs so once we know which one(s) register we can offer more specific help.

 

Thanks. My husband and neighbor tried a manual close, but stopped when they got to the part with the allen wrench. The manual doesn't really show what to take off, and there were several options. I will call the auto repair shop tomorrow and take her in. I will also make sure someone shows me how to put it up manually!

 

The Allen wrench is used to lock the roof to the A pillar. In the roof ceiling there is a round plastic disk cover plate near where the roof meets the windshield. The Allen wrench inserts there and turns to move the latching mechanism to lock in the roof.

 

Carol, you have the classic signs of a failing top. It will most likely only get worse. Not better.

Your best bet is to take it in for service.

HOWEVER, you need to take it into a TOYOTA or LEXUS specialist, since they will need the Toyota Factory Software, Techstream.

Without the software, there really is no affordable way to repair the top.

They would probably benefit from the Service Manual codes and repair instructions, which only a Lexus Mechanic would have. (Though you can find most of them here on Club Lexus if you do a little searching)

Good luck on the repair and keep us posted.

(P.S. If you have a mechanic that is willing to do a little research, he can get a copy of techstream and the repair instructions from searching the internet)