99lsguy

They're usually on the list for every 60K service. Remove and Replace.... Primary Function : Reduce HydroCarbons If the rubber grommet is cracked or hard replace it too............

I agree Blake, A little steep. The valve adjustment would probably run around $400+ ;) 99

acf, Diffy fluid - 80-90W 1.5 quarts (I use synthetic) Trans Fluid - Toyota T-IV; pan drain will need about 3 quarts (don't overfill) Brake Fluid - Toyota Dot 3 probably 3 cans Oil change PCV Valve PS Fluid - Toyota Dexron III 1.1 quarts ; but you might need 3-5 to completely flush system (this is not a recommended service - but check k9crews thread on the ls400 forum last week-very good! Coolant - 2 gal "toyota long life coolant" w/ 50/50 distilled water mix. Refill engine block thru water filler plug on top of throttle body, then fill radiator and reservoir. Capacity it 11.6 quarts so you've got some extra to spill Now, on the T'belt: Replace water pump, L&R idler pulleys. timing belt tensioner, T-belt (of course), don't forget the serpentine belt! Also, check plugs & wires & rotors etc.... Of course you need gaskets, Loc-tite,

It is fun and part of the "aura"!! Seriously jealous about you having a full shop with lifts That's Awesome! I just pan drain the tranny. you get 2-3 quarts out and put back in about 3/4 quart LESS for starters. After a couple of times you'll get the feel for how much to add. It's kinda precise - just add little at time and make sure the fluid is hot - it expands as it heats up. Check out the threads about: Transmission overfilled - possible damage? by K9Crew in the LS400 forum Power Steering flush by k9Crew " " ' Several coolant flush threads... All these are recent - as in last week or so. I have lots of dialogue in them. K9 does a great job with the PS Flush

I look at it this way: I don't mind Over Maintaining my Vehicle because I DIY That would be one extra service (per year) for the following items: Syn. Oil & Filter $120 ( $40 each x 3 per year ) Brake Flush $15 Tranny Drain $15 (2 x year) Coolant Flush $32 Diffy Fluid $15 PS Flush $10 ------------ Total $208 It would cost you at least $270 just for 3 oil changes in one year @ dealer

Absolutely, I can't imagine putting 20+ grand into a 14 year old car. You couldn't possibly restore it to"NEW" for that anyway. It may cost more that that for all I know ;)......

I can see how it must have "hit the fan" when Lexus sent those letters out. As for the exaggerations; they could (and probably are) a little rampant. I remember reading (here on LOC) about the engine "gel" problem that was caused by neglecting the oil change for 25,000 miles :o Even though we hate to admit it, even the Lexus is a "depreciating machine" and will wear out......... SWO, Good point about repair bills that are equal or greater than the value of the car - just have to let them go sometimes...

Right on the Button !

do they have the 5 speed AT now, like our LS's from 98-03

I use Amsoil 5-30 with Amsoil Oil Filter (SD-57). I'll change it any where from 3500-5000 miles - I don't like the oil to get dirty!

We're assuming the radiator and Reservoir are Full?

k9, I fully expect that anything you do (to care for the car) will be a superior move. By thinking ahead, you'll remove "any disaster" from the equation. No one will care for your car the way you do :D Stay Meticulous 99

Hey Es owners, I've noticed the posts referencing older transmissions breaking down. So, has Lexus changed the design on the newer models - and corrected the deficiencies? Looking for a kind of 'TIMELINE" of events and Lexus made "good" to owners of faulty transmissions.. Also, same type of info on the "engine oil - sludge" problem in Camrys or the ES. Just curious and would love to hear the expertise... Thanks :D

Quizing is the right methodology! It's fun to see what they tell you. I'd try to quiz the mechanic. He's the one I want to hear from.... I have little faith the service manager would have a clue..

k9, Check my manual and saw nothing about the SEC either. I've also had to replace battery in the fall and I didn't notice any codes - I have the Pioneer like you. Should be good to go!

Just so we know, how many miles on the vehicle and what service intervals for ATF & Diff fluids.. Thanks

lexusfreak, SK is on the money - again! toyota designs there shift solenoids to shift based on the coolant & trans fluid temperatures. Like you, this bothers me a little too - but it is Toy's way of getting the car up to normal op temperature. Specs are around 156 - 176 degrees. My 99ls will shift from 1-2nd pretty much immediately but will wait until 2500 rpm (or 25 mph) to shift into 3rd while still cold. This is exactly what the manual diagnostics describe. It takes about 3 minutes + to warm up the LS. I just "idle thru the neighborhood" at about 15 mph (for 1/2 mile) before I need to get to outer road with 45 mph speed limit. Even then, the engine is not warmed up if its 20 degress farenheit or less. There is no harm, just trying to get the engine warm ASAP! (But I don't like it)

how many miles and service history of the car?

lwr, Are you under 4yr/50 K warranty? take it to dealer and get the charcoal cannister replaced........

lwr, Have you checked the charcoal cannister yet. On my 99, it's located up under the battery area - Driver's side, just behind headlights. since you have 01, you should be under warranty - unless you have 50K+ miles on it. Take it to dealer and they should fix the faulty cannister for free! 99

Blake, Don't know a thing about the ES or the Camry...but... Find out if that toyota dealer (or other used import dealer) has a 94 Camry on the lot...doubtful, but at least you could sit in it and work the wipers. Also, from my experience, many of the part numbers (between Lexus & Toyota)will only be different on the first digit or so. I've bought many items from Toyota and saved 50% over the Lexus price. Good Luck, 99

sk, What's this procedure, could you give more detail? Thanks

Well, sounds like the tranny is basically OK...... The rear axles that "T" of from the diff. are supposed to be checked for torque every 5K on my 99LS. torque is 61 ft. lbs. I'm sure the mechanic can check all the torques along the driveshaft too. My guess is a worn bushings on the rear lower suspension arms. Let us know what you find out. Like you, I hope it's a Minor $ repair <_< 99

So, it never "shutters" or whatever in 3rd gear?

So do you mean it vibrates only when you "hit the gas" to pass someone and it downshifts to accelerate? Does it ever vibrate when IN OD and just cruising at set speed?