Is 200 Se - Auto Box - Difficult To Engage Reverse?

[Unitee]

Hi,

I have problems engaging reverse. It's fine from cold, seems to happen after about 30 mins of running. The gearstick moves into reverse but the car doesn't move. I have to take it out and re-engage a couple of times before it finally engages. Or just sit and wait for a few seconds. I've just had the gearbox fluid replaced , which lexus told me was dirty. Came home only about 1.5 miles drive and tried it in reverse. Seemed ok, but as I said happens after 30 mins or so of running. The garage that changed the the auto fluid for me says I'm looking at a new gearbox at around £1,200 to £1,300.

I've seen mentioned elsewhere 'burnt-out solenoids' and 'faulty electrical gear switches'. I'm not technically minded so doesn't mean a great deal to me.

It's been happening since about June this year. Was on holiday in July/August, then had bodywork beeing done, during which time I had the complete range of IS250's as courtesy cars - Base, SE and SE-L (very nice especially the Mark Levinson system in the SE-L for a reggae freak like me!). So really I've not driven my car much at all since June when I first really noticed the problem.

The car is 1999 registration has done 72k and has been serviced regularly at the prescribed intervals. The fluid was changed about 2-3 years ago - bought thefluid from Lexus. I will check the receipt for information on the fluid specification.

Anyone experienced the same or similar or has any suggestions or advice?

All help gratefully accepted.