Hello,
I am experiencing intermittent problems with engine starting on my
2000 Lexus ES300 Platinum. I know for certain that it is not the battery, because eventually, the car does start. I know there is a mechanism in the car to prevent starting when not in P or N, or for other reasons.Here's what happens:
- Insert key and try to start. I get a split-second sound like it is going to start, then it just stops.
- Try several of the following in any combination and eventually it starts: a. Just try again b. Jiggle the key c. Pull the key out and reinsert d. Move the shift lever to N, try, then back to P. (requires pressing the shift-lock release) e. Pull out the key, turn it over and insert it that way
- Car eventually starts
I'm trying to figure out what component might be going bad. Could a low battery in the key cause this? Could the gear selection protection component (requires car to be in P or N) be going bad? I'm sort of leaning towards the latter.
Any suggestions?
Thank you! James Nashville, TN