Wulf

Things are looking great. Dropped off my ES300 along with a print out of the notice. They are doing the work while I am driving a new Lexus - all for free! Caught them by surprise - didn't seem they were aware of the extended warranty. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hello MNJack, THANK YOU FOR THE INFO ON THIS EXTENDED FEDERAL WARRANTY! My 97 ES300 has just under 120,000 miles, almost exactly the same scenario as your ES300. If you have any additional info could you please provide? I will try the link. I am very pleased! Thanks again! Wulf

Good ideas! I was told once the membrane has ruptured (from over fueling), carbon will eventually be blown into the engine. Is that true? What is the likelyhood and how much damage will that cause? Is it worth seeing if it cleans itself out after driving it a few thousand miles? The check engine light has not been reset - is that something a novice can do? The used canister is a great idea except I don't even know where the canister is at this point. Do I need to be a master mechanic for this repair? Thanks for your help!

My check engine light came on last night, I had it inspected today. Looks like it may cost $775. Is this repair absolutely necessary - are there any other options? They retrieved the code from the ECU - code PO441/Evap. system. Upon inspection found carbon from vapor canister in vacuum hoses of purge control valve. They say it needs purge valve, vacuum switch and canister replacement. Approximately $775. The check engine light is still on. I under stand this is most likely from overfilling the gas tank. If I do not take care of this issue carbon could get into the engine. Also it would fail if I go to have the emissions tested. ARE THERE ANY OTHER OPTIONS THAN SPENDING $775? Thanks! (1997 ES300 in great shape)

There seems to be disagreement whether a '97 ES 300 has a noninterference or an interference engine. Does anyone really know? I am aware the 90,000 service is over due. The point here is that a tremendous amount of those miles were freeway miles (brakes lasted 80,000 miles). With that many freeway miles, has the timing belt worn as much? Here is my dilemma: I may want to sell this car in the next 6 months and buy another Lexus. I am just trying to determine if I really need to spend $850 to change the timing belt and other components that go with that repair. Thanks for the advice.

I understand if a timing belt goes out on older engines it will cause substantial damage to other components. I was recently told on newer engines that is not the case. On newer engines if the timing belt goes out, only the timing belt will need replacement. IS THIS CORRECT? If so, what engine year did this change take place? I have a 1997 ES 300 with 108,000 highway miles. I have NOT changed the timing belt. I have not had any problems with this car. I am replacing my brakes tomorrow after 80,000 miles. I am also having the sway bar bushings replaced. I change my oil every 3000 miles and use a full synthetic oil. I really would appreciate info on this timing belt issue. Thanks!

What type of noises did your hear when your struts were going bad?

Same situation. 1997 ES300 with 85,000 miles. Ride has degraded and hearing some clunks from the rear. Problem finding a mechanic (other than the dealer) in Seattle that understands this adjustable suspension system. One was ready to install new KYB struts and decided he could not since there was not an electronic hook-up for the adjustable feature. I looked up parts on PickPro and found the KYB GR-2 Gas Strut is adjustable. Did the mechanic not know how or did he have the wrong part. I guess I had the wrong mechanic...The dealer wants $2000 for replacing front and rear. Any advice?