NJPaul

I quoted you from the manual, but when I went the car this morning the door was unlocked and the engine shut off when I opened the door. I was waiting for the alarm to go off but nothing happened. I wonder if anyone can get in, or whether it recognized the transponder in my pocket. I'll check it out. At any rate you still have to re start the car....no biggy.

nyuhsuk, 1) I don't really know the effective range, but it always started whenever I used it. I am usually about 30 feet away but I'm sure that it will work further away than that. The manual does not give this information. (Update) I just went outside and walked about 200 feet away from the car and it started. I then walked in the other direction about the same distance and it shut down without a problem even though the receiver was facing away from me. The neighbors think I'm nuts, :D but who cares. 2) The starter is activated by a separate control (fob) which is provided by the manufacturer of the system. It's pretty small - about 2" x 1/4 ". A small receiver is installed in the car to receive the signal from the control. In my case, it is high up on the inside of the windshield, on the driver's side. 3) In order to start the car you push down the button on the controller twice. The parking lights and brake lights blink and after about 30 seconds the car starts. The factory Smart Key system is inoperative while the engine is running. You must press and hold the Remote Starter button for 4 seconds to unlock the front door. The engine will automatically shut down when you open the door. 4) If you want to to shut it down remotely, you have to push the button twice again, and after another 30 seconds it shuts down. If you don't, it will run for 20 minutes and then will automatically shut down. 5) I had Lexus install it when I bought the car so I assume that it is their responsibility. I'm sure that I could have bought it for less, but I just felt safer having them put it in. It's actually a pretty simple system, especially with the push button starter. All it does is make the connection to activate the start button. I really like the convenience of starting the car remotely. It will be even nicer when we get the crappy weather that we get in the northeast in the winter. Paul

How do I change my screen name? I went to "my controls" but can't figure out how to change it. Thanks

When I bought my ES350 (last week), I inquired about a remote starter. The dealer said that they would install one for me and it was in the car when I picked it up Friday. I paid $595.00 for it after a little negotiation. It works fine. I'm sure that I'll get a lot of use from it this winter. It is an after market product, but I felt more comfortable having Lexus install it. The manufacturer is Audiovox and the model number is Pro 9056 SMK. They specifically state in their literature that "Your vehicle cannot be driven away by a thief while it is remote started, opening the door or depressing the brake pedal will shut the engine off and it will not re-start without a valid Smart Key". I really like the system but you have to be sure that your headlights and wipers are in the "off" position when you start it remotely, as they will go on automatically if it is dark or raining. Let me know if you need any more info. Paul

Well, I guess I'll have to change my screen name from "Readytobuy". I finally bought a 2008 ES350 and will be picking it up today. Options include the Premium package, Wood & leather steering wheel, Bluetooth, Heated & ventilated front seats, Full size spare, High intensity headlamps w/afs, Rear seat airbags. and the Preferred accessory package. (did not need navigation) I also had a remote start system installed. I think that I did fairly well with my negotiations - the MSRP was $38,502 and I paid $34,333. (plus the remote start) Naturally, state tax, motor vehicle registration costs and documentation fees were extra and not included in the above. I still have not made a decision on the extended warranty. They reduced the cost by $300. but I can always purchase it later. Now all I have to do is sell my 2000 Infinity I30.

Thanks for your suggestions. I have been working with a couple of dealers and one has offered (in writing) to sell me a new ES at "invoice". That seems like a really good deal and he is with a large dealership with a good reputation. He is not around the corner but only about an hours drive away. I can get the invoice price from Edumunds or KBB so I'll be able to check his price once I'm ready to buy. If I get a extended warrantee from the web, is it serviced at Lexus? If so, how do I know that I'll be reimbursed for the work that is done? Paul

OK, I’m just about ready to buy a car to replace my 2000 Infinity i30 (53,000 miles). I love the car, but because it is 7 years old, I want to replace it while it still has some value and before it starts giving me problems. (I plan to sell it privately). Plus, I really want something newer. I’m the North Central part of NJ. I would like to stay in the mid $30.000 range. I’ve driven the 2008 Avalon (very nice) and have considered the Azera, and while you get a lot for your money, I’m a little concerned about its reliability. My first choice has always been the Lexus ES350 and it seems like I might be able to get one in my price range. Do you guys have any suggestions and recommendations on how I can find out how I can get the lowest price on this vehicle? I will probably get a Consumer’s Report pricing guide but beside that, is there anything else that I should do before I start my negotiations? I know enough not to buy any of the add-ons that they try to sell you after the deal is done but I might want to get the extended warrantee. How negotiable is that item? Thanks for your help. Paul