kimletrim

They are called anti-fouler plugs. You can pick them up at almost any auto parts store. They are usually sold in pairs. What you do is you take one of the anti-fouler plugs and drill a hole through one so the tip of the O2 sensor will fit through the plug. You then take the second antifouler plug and screw it onto the other plug which should already be screwed on to the O2 sensor. What this does is extend the sensor away from the exhuast gases. It basically allows the O2 sensor to get a false reading of your exhuast gases.

If you are still in the decision making process then let me chime in. I own a 2000 RX300 and my father has an ML500. I have had plenty of behind the wheel time on the ML, here are my thoughts. These are totally different vehicles. The MLs are truck based vehicles while the RX is a car based vehicle. In fact, many ML owners throw some sort of fit when they are referred to as SUVs instead of truck (call it what it want). But from a driver's standpoint, the ML is definitely a "rougher" car with clear truck roots. The ride is choppier (not bad, just choppier). The most important distinction in my view is that the ML demands more attention to drive whereas a RX is much easier to drive. Whether or not you think the amount of driving attentiveness is driving enjoyment or a lack thereof leads to a vehicle without road connection is for you to decide. They are both nice cars, but I would have to say that the RX has better fit and finish and the 2004 model is the way to go.

I had the exact same problem in my 2000 RX. It started way back and the key was easy to slide in and out even though the engine was still running. Car was running fine so I decided to wait further down the road (near end of warranty to resolve this issue). Well guess what, the problem beat me to it as I was stuck in a parking lot with the key in the accessory position and the key would not move beyond such position, hence the engine would not start. Had to have it towed to dealer and they had ALLO the locks and keys replaced. Fortunately all under warranty.