Leaderboard

I have a 2009 Lexus ES350 that has problems with the radio. Intermittently, upon start up, either the display and/or the controls on the dasboard are inoperable. This includes on/off, volume, preset buttons, and blue tooth connection to my phone. The dealer has replaced the radio several months ago, but the current radio is starting to exhibit the same issue. Is this a common problem? What is the fix?

With the advent of aluminum radiators having plastic end caps this has become a common problem for many makes. The leaks typically occur at the "seal" between the aluminum core and the plastic end caps. It's usually the product of poor (cheap) materials combined with poor workmanship. I don't know if the radiators available from your friendly Lexus Parts Department are any better or not. Most all the El Cheapo imports are manufactured in China and often last until the warranty runs out. Sadly, although the cost of the radiator itself is typically not too bad, the labor cost to remove and reinstall one is where the real pain is as you are well aware. If you are going to opt for another replacement, I'd probably spring for an OEM radiator from the dealer provided they could convince me it was a Genuine Lexus (Toyota) part. Also, this might be a good time to take a look at the available cooling system sealants available at your local Autozone, Advance, NAPA, etc. Things really have improved over the years and I don't see that you've got a lot to lose at this point. Let us know how things turn out.