Hello
My elderly neighbor has a 2000 Lexus RX300 with about 130,000 miles on it. She was getting a code PO128, so I replaced her thermostat. That code is gone and hasn't come back but she is now telling me her CEL blinks at highway speeds. When I use my scan tool I get no codes.
I am almost sure she must be having a misfire of some kind but how do I pinpoint this without the computer storing a code? I don't have a great scan tool but can buy one or borrow a better one. Anything specific to look for in the live data? I know I put everything back together right when I did the thermostat. I suppose I can recheck the battery terminals and the ground I had to remove.
The other option is for her to bring it to Lexus and spend wads of cash. I just hope it's not anything I did.
Thanks in advance!
Since the CEL is flashing, have it read by a scanner from an auto parts store & check if it’s able to pick up the codes.
It obviously has something to do with your removing the main battery ground. Why did you remove it anyway to change a thermostat?
Find out about the stored codes before throwing parts into the car.
It isn't showing any codes. And runs fine around the block and idling. But she's telling me it flashes at highway speeds. To be clear, the CEL is NOT illuminated and there are no codes.
I made sure to reinstall the ground. If you ever did a thermostat switch in a 2000 lexus RX300 you would know why I undid it, to get more working room.
So i guess my question is... what are the reasons a lexus would flash its CEL? I know misfire is one of them. Is there any others?
This was the most useless experience of all time. It's flashing because "obviously" I removed the battery ground. Yea ok. Thanks Doc you figured it out and you're a famed member. Not good.
Wow - sorry you're so disappointed. Call Dr. Phil, maybe he'll listen.