Rx300 Starting Problem

[dgCA]

Hi. I have a RX300 awd (2001) 83K miles, which has been giving problems starting for last few months. The problem is intermittent - sometimes ignition starts no problem, and sometimes the ignition will turn but the engine rev will not hold and will cut out. The only way to drive off is to hold the rev at around 3000rpm for a few mins at least and then pray it doesn`t cut off as I drive ! Replaced the battery by AAA and it didnt make much diff - the alternator is ok. I was told that this is due to carbon deposits on the IAC (idle air control) valve under the throttle body. The valve is electronically controlled by the ECM and once restricted by carbon, this can happen. Diagnosis : get the IAC replaced and throttle body cleaned.

Has anybody experienced a problem like this on their lexus or toyota ? If so, does the diagnosis make sense ? I live in sunnyvale, CA - does anybody know any good garages here which can carry out this work ? may be a toyota dealership (I don`t want to take it to a Lexus dealership due to cost reasons - money is tight !!) thanks in advance for any suggestions

[Mike Eder]

You can start with cleaning the throttle body, sometimes the IAC motor will free up. If not you will have to remove the throttle body and replace the IAC.