Braking Performance

[LS460-2008]

I purchased a new 2008 LS 460 at the end of November 2007 (problem began with less than 50 miles on the odometer) that sporadically lunges forward during braking. The car will brake normally and then intermittently lunge forward. This is not the anti-lock brakes engaging. The braking distance for this car becomes extreme when this situation occurs.

After numerous discussions with the dealer regarding their thoughts on potential problems including "glazed brakes", tires and issues with transmission downshifts, a specialist "engineer" was scheduled to drive the car. The engineer was taken on a test drive and the situation was replicated. He indicated that he was aware of the issue. It was his understanding that it was a software problem related to the "Brake Assist" feature and that Lexus was working on a "countermeasure" to correct the problem. The dealer indicated that he could not correct the problem until the "countermeasure" was available from Lexus. He suggested that I initiate a case with Lexus and they would be able to tell when the car could be repaired or work with me on replacing the car. I contacted Lexus and have been stuck in an endless loop as they research the issue.

Has anyone encountered this problem and was Lexus able to resolve the issue? Does anyone know how to advance the ball within Lexus? This is a great car, but the braking is unacceptable when this issue occurs.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[nilesrumby]

I purchased a new 2008 LS 460 at the end of November 2007 (problem began with less than 50 miles on the odometer) that sporadically lunges forward during braking. The car will brake normally and then intermittently lunge forward. This is not the anti-lock brakes engaging. The braking distance for this car becomes extreme when this situation occurs.

After numerous discussions with the dealer regarding their thoughts on potential problems including "glazed brakes", tires and issues with transmission downshifts, a specialist "engineer" was scheduled to drive the car. The engineer was taken on a test drive and the situation was replicated. He indicated that he was aware of the issue. It was his understanding that it was a software problem related to the "Brake Assist" feature and that Lexus was working on a "countermeasure" to correct the problem. The dealer indicated that he could not correct the problem until the "countermeasure" was available from Lexus. He suggested that I initiate a case with Lexus and they would be able to tell when the car could be repaired or work with me on replacing the car. I contacted Lexus and have been stuck in an endless loop as they research the issue.

Has anyone encountered this problem and was Lexus able to resolve the issue? Does anyone know how to advance the ball within Lexus? This is a great car, but the braking is unacceptable when this issue occurs.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[nilesrumby]

Check the lemon law in your state to see how you may return the car. If you're in CA, I can suggest a lawyer who specializes in these issues.

[SKperformance]

The transmission is staying engaged. It needs a new program

[paulLS460]

:( I have had the same issue twice between 7,000 and 10,000 miles. It has only happened twice so the dealer was unable to make it happen when I had the 10,000 mile check this week. The first time it happened the engine raced and the car lunged forward, requiring me to put both feet on the brake. The second time was not as severe, but nonetheless a little scary when it happened. The dealer told me the computer could find no abnormalities but I am concerned with safety. Maybe if enough have the problem we can get some action. Anyone else? I'm going to try to get more action from the dealer here. :(