bshipman

I too have started experiencing this intermittent problem, which started at about 80K miles. I noticed the problem only occurs when I first start the engine. When the problem does occur, if I turn the key off, then on again, the problem goes away. I suspect a loose wire or bad ignition switch, but need to get the car to the dealer to troubleshoot. Hope that helps you a bit. Please let me know how you finally resolve the problem.

I have a 1999 RX300 I purchased new. It currently has 71,000 miles on it. So far, the only out of pocket expenses have been regular oil changes and a new set of tires on the vehicle (at 35,000 miles), which I attribute mostly to my hard driving style. Up until recently, the car has been nearly perfect. I just had the vehicle in to the dealer today for an oil change and check for an exhaust noise. Evidently, there is a crack in the exhaust header pipe which the dealer wants to charge $450 for. The car is out of warranty, so I am headed to a muffler shop for a fix. In addition, the dealer recommended I change out all the belts as well as the battery, adding another $600 to the bill. I will probably have the belts changed soon, but will let the battery die on it's own. These are great cars, but I recommend you question the dealer thoroughly before paying for any work. Read the owners manual carefully and pay attention to the notes in the recommended service sections. The dealer would have you think that shelling out $500 for fluid and filter changes every 3,000 miles is a normal practice. It is not and is in fact only recommended by the manufacturer for vehicles operated under extreme driving conditions. Good luck with your Lexus. They are really great cars well worth the expense.

That's good advice. Thanks. I'll check a local muffler shop.

I have a 1999 RX300 with 71,000 miles on it. The flange on the header pipe, that connects the header pipe to the catalytic converter, is cracked. The dealer wants to charge me $450 parts and labor to replace the header pipe. Is there an alternative, less costly option? Thanks for any insight you can provide.