1998 Lexus LS 400 Intermittant Starting

CHUCK CARLAND

MEMBER
1998 LEXUS LS 400
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
133,000 MILES

I have been having an intermittant starting problem for about 6 months. On a cold start, some times, I must turn the key as many as 6 times to get any action from the starter. Yesterday, starting took a little more. When the starter engages, the engine starts easily. Do you think I should replace the starter first? If so, exactly, where is it located. I am 70 and have done a lot of work on 1960s and 1970s Fords & Chevys. Any help would be appreciated. Thank You.

2 Replies

EL34

MEMBER
1 POST

My 98 LS 400's starter isn't engaging. It did yesterday and the day before after the second try but no luck at alll today after multiple trys. Yesterday, like yourself, once it engaged it started instantly like there was no problem.
Let me know if you have any luck. Thanks, EL34

SPONSORED LINKS

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Saturday, January 17th, 2009 AT 1:02 PM

BOKOMBA

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I have a 92 ls 400 and in 06 I changed the engine and trans. The starter is on the top of the block. You literally have to take apart half the engine to get to it. It sits right on top of the block underneath the intake manifold. I would never have known if I didnt have to replace the engine. Make sure coz it is a big job and if they put it there they must have expected it to last the "life of the car." Good luck

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Sunday, March 15th, 2009 AT 8:01 PM