Wil_Atl

Hmmm. Is that the starter? It looked to high up on the engine to be where a starter is typically located.

That said, I don't really know wher the starter is located on this vehicle.

Gotta take a closer look later....

Bought a blank online and was able to get it cut in locally in Atlanta, Ga (Duluth) with no problem.

Did not need to remove the intake. It's definitely awkward to reach the coils/plugs at the back there but it's doable without removing the intake manifold.

My wife's 2000 RX 300 recently began making a rattling noise when started first thing in the morning. The noise dies away after the car warms up.

The car has 179K but the replacement engine allegedly has about 60K on it. Enging was replaced about a year ago.

A close listen shows the noise seems to come from a part located on the battery/air box side of the engine (right side if you're facing the the front of the car). There is a starter-like component attached to the engine that is located just below and to the left of the battery and airbox.

What is that part? I'm gessing it be somethong to do with the VVT system. Is a rattling noise on cold start coming from that area something to worry about?

Any thoughts on this? Thanks.

For those who know...

I have a 2000 Rx300 2WD with 147K miles. Car runs fine except the following problem.

CEL is on (P1351). Had an oil pressure light last week. Took it to a shop, they dropped the oil pan and there was a fair amount of metal debris in the pan. CEL came on after this oil pan/screen cleaning service.

I'm told the engine is shot and there isn't enough oil pressure to run the VVT system.

So I need a new engine.

Question is, is the '00 to '03 RX300 engine the same as the Es300, Camry Avalon for similar years?

Good idea. I leaning towarsd saving a few more $$ and getting a later model. Thanks for the info on the '99. No mast antenna huh. Always had problems with power antennae. I'll keep my eyes open for a '99.

Thanks guys. I'm looking for the kind of deal chadmg7 got. And yes, I see a wide array of prices for a given given year/mileage. No 5K to shell out....it would have to sit in the garage...

Looking for a 1997+ ES withe preferably under 100K miles, up to date service and in great condition in and out. What, in reality, can I expect to pay. I saw the KBB values I just wanted some real-world prices.

there is a front plate holder from lexus that goes in to the bumper and then the plates goes into it.

←

My new RX 400h came with one -- the dealer left it in the back of the car (i.e., not mounted). Georgia isn't a front tag state, so I just discarded it. I concur with others who have suggested checking with a Lexus dealer. They should be able to get you one that will integrate perfectly with your car.

←

When you say 'discard' do you mean throw in the garage someplace?

I'm looking for a Lex Rx 300 for my wife. Since we can only afford at most $14K I figure I'm looking at a '99 model. Also, I'm looking for one with less than 100k miles. Is this doable? From what you guys know, what are the chances of finding one of these babies in good condition with under 100k mile? Thanks.