Why is my Lexus GS350 not starting?
Few things are as frustrating as getting into your Lexus GS350, turning the key (or pressing the start button), and realizing it won’t start. As a seasoned auto repair professional, I’ve encountered this issue many times. In this article, I’ll walk you through the most common reasons your Lexus GS350 might not be starting and what you can do about it.
Common Reasons Your Lexus GS350 Won’t Start
There are several potential causes for a no-start condition in your Lexus GS350. These range from simple fixes to more complex mechanical or electrical issues. Below are the most common culprits:
- Dead or Weak Battery: A dead or weak battery is one of the most common reasons for a car not starting. If your battery is old or has been drained (e.g., by leaving the lights on), it may not have enough power to start the engine.
- Faulty Starter Motor: The starter motor is responsible for cranking the engine. If it’s worn out or damaged, your car won’t start, even if the battery is fully charged.
- Ignition Switch Issues: A faulty ignition switch can prevent the electrical system from engaging properly, leaving your car unable to start.
- Fuel Delivery Problems: If your Lexus isn’t getting fuel, it won’t start. This could be due to a clogged fuel filter, a failing fuel pump, or an empty gas tank.
- Key Fob or Immobilizer Issues: If your GS350 uses a push-button start, a weak key fob battery or a malfunctioning immobilizer system could prevent the car from starting.
- Bad Alternator: While the alternator’s primary job is to charge the battery while the engine is running, a failing alternator can lead to a drained battery, causing starting issues.
- Corroded or Loose Battery Connections: Corrosion or loose connections at the battery terminals can disrupt the flow of electricity, preventing the car from starting.
Understanding these potential causes can help you narrow down the issue and determine the next steps to take.
Steps to Diagnose the Problem
If your Lexus GS350 isn’t starting, follow these steps to diagnose the issue:
- Check the Battery: Inspect the battery for corrosion, loose connections, or signs of wear. Use a multimeter to check the voltage; a healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts when the car is off.
- Listen for Sounds: When you try to start the car, listen for clicking sounds. A rapid clicking noise often indicates a weak battery, while no sound at all could point to a starter or ignition issue.
- Inspect the Key Fob: If your car uses a key fob, replace its battery and try again. Ensure the fob is properly paired with the car.
- Check the Fuel Level: Make sure your gas tank isn’t empty. If you suspect a fuel delivery issue, you may need a mechanic to inspect the fuel pump or filter.
- Test the Starter Motor: If the battery is fine but the engine doesn’t crank, the starter motor may need to be tested or replaced.
- Look for Dashboard Warning Lights: Pay attention to any warning lights on the dashboard, as they can provide clues about the issue.
By following these steps, you can often identify the root cause of the problem or at least gather enough information to explain the issue to a professional mechanic.
When to Call a Professional
While some issues, like a dead battery or a loose connection, can be resolved at home, others require professional expertise. If you’ve gone through the steps above and your Lexus GS350 still won’t start, it’s time to call a trusted auto repair shop. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing no-start conditions for all makes and models, including luxury vehicles like the Lexus GS350. Don’t hesitate to reach out for expert assistance!
Conclusion
A Lexus GS350 that won’t start can be caused by a variety of issues, from a simple dead battery to more complex mechanical or electrical problems. By understanding the common causes and following the diagnostic steps outlined above, you can often pinpoint the issue. If you’re unable to resolve the problem on your own, Kevin’s Autos is here to help. Contact us today to get your Lexus back on the road!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Lexus push button not starting?
Start by checking the key fob battery and try using a backup key. Ensure the car battery is fully charged and the terminals are clean and tight. If the car still doesn't start, the issue might be with the push start switch or the brake pedal sensor. Since the alternator tested bad, it might need replacement...
Why does my car have a clicking sound and won't start?
Your Car Won't Start—and You Hear a Rapid Clicking Noise
This is most likely a battery issue or a problem with the alternator and/or charging system. Your starter relay and high current contacts are trying to stay closed but there isn't enough power to hold them in position so they are rapidly opening and closing.
How do I know if my Lexus starter is bad?
It can happen, but there are usually warning signs which can include the following.
- Smoke (due to an overheating starter)
- After starting, the starter stays on.
- Intermittent vehicle starting problems.
- Whirring, grinding, or clicking when you turn the key or press start.
How much does it cost to replace the starter on a Lexus GS350?
The average cost for a Lexus GS350 Starter Replacement is between $552 and $635.
Why is my car suddenly not starting?
Check the Battery and Terminals: A dead battery might be the culprit behind the problem, or loose terminals also lead to engine start issues. If you find that the battery is dead, you can charge it or replace it with a new battery. And, if the terminals are loose or dirty, clean and secure them by tightening.
Why does my car not start when I push the button?
Listed below are some reasons the engine may not start: Your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal when pressing the START button. Ensure you are pressing firmly on the brake pedal when attempting to start the vehicle. The Smart Key battery is weak.
How do you manually start a Lexus?
Engine start to remotely start your vehicle's engine press. And release the key fob lock button twice within two seconds.
Can you manually start a push button start car?
And in doing. So the vehicle will then start at that point you can get to your closest. Dealer get the battery. Replaced. Um that's something that we do here for our customers.
What would cause a Lexus to not start?
If your engine does start with a jump or powerpack, then the problem likely wasn't with the starter, but the battery. If your Lexus won't start, it could be a bad starter, a low/dead battery, or one of these other reasons: Jammed steering lock. Bad timing belt.
Why is my Lexus clicking but not starting?
Clicking Noise: When you turn the key in the ignition, you may hear a clicking noise coming from the engine. This is a common sign of a failing starter motor. Grinding Noise: If you hear a grinding noise when you turn the key, it could be due to a worn-out starter motor gear.
