Hi guys, hope someone can help me with this. A couple of weeks ago, I was driving along (GS300S MK2 1998 70K mls) and heard a strange motorised scraping noise. It sounded like it was coming from under the steering wheel. On closer inspection it appears to be coming from the brake servo unit. Its still there with the engine switched off and the ignition lights on. It stops if I’m pumping the brake pedal and then starts again. It stopped after a while and has been intermittent since. Now when it happens, instead of it stopping, all 4 brake warning lights come on and an audible dash alarm comes on (A continues long beep). It goes out after about ten minutes.
A friend who knows more about cars than I do thinks it’s the "ABS Pump". I called Lexus for a price, and ......... wait for it ........ It’s over £2000 inc vat for the part including the servo unit. It’s a bout £600 cheaper without the servo unit.
Hope someone can come up with some "cheaper suggestions" or an alternative diagnosis???. I’m gutted (and scared!) at the moment!!
Best regards!!
ps

Up until this problem, I was getting brake shudder, which I thought may be a ball joint or lower arm bush, but the judder has mysteriously disappeared!

Best to avoid Lexus dealers on an old car unless you are made of money.

I would suggest phoning a Lexus salvage yard (I think one is called Swift spares), or possibly posting on www.clublexus.com, as they have zillions of GSs on there.

If you try one of the ones on the web where you give them your phone number (LANDLINE, not mobile 'cos they'll sting you on the texts) and the part you're after, don't go for the first dealer who rings you, I did this and got two more prices (both significantly cheaper) within half an hour!

Try these Click me

yes it is either the pump or the pressure sensor (probably the pump). It is also a fairly common issue on the 1998-2000 (pre face-lift) series II GS.

Colin,

Is there anything that can be done to prevent the problem occurring?

no not really although a couple of people only experienced the problem after they had not driven the vehicle for some time (3 weeks +).

Not sure if this is related to the problem, maybe something in the pump sticks when it's not used for some time and is then damaged when operated again.

Thanks guys, really appreciate the comments. I’ve been on the phone to a couple of Lexus service dept's and so far none of them have ever had to replace a pump. I’m leaving it with a garage (not Lexus) next week for some diagnostics. Lexus diagnostics don’t have a memory so the warning lights have to be on while it’s plugged in. Will see how it goes and post the results.
Thanks again for your replies!!

Padraig

I've had the job done. Had to replace the servo / pump unit. I found a local small garage that specialises in Toyota & Lexus parts and repairs. They ordered the part direct from Japan and fitted it all for approx £700 less than a Lexus dealer!!!! They advise that they replace lots of these on the GS MK2. They seem to have a lifespan of about 5 to 7 years. The main problem is the electrics and the main circuit board is moulded inside the unit!
If your looking for new parts or repairs done, and live in South London / Surrey area these guys are worth a try! www.toyotalexusspecialists.co.uk or www.cheaptoyotaparts.co.uk
Thanks again for all your reply's!!!