Jerry

I have a starter motor problem with my 95 LS400. It clicks, but won't engage. After turning the key several times, I can usually get it to start. This was actually the topic of a US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall for 95-97 LS400s. See www.nhtsa.org. The problem is apparently the magnetic switch in the starter. The Lexus dealer wants $1000.00 to replace the starter, and will not honor this recall for my car. I've done a lot of work on cars, and replaced a lot of starters, but I can't even find the damn thing on this car. Does anyone know how to get at the starter in an LS400? Thanks Jerry

After reading Gary's post, I decided to try to fix the problem on my LS400. No luck. I couldn't even find the damn thing. It seems to be up behind the exaust manifold and I have no idea how to get at it. If anyone knows how to get at the Starter on an LS400, I would love to hear from you. Jerry

Thanks, Gary, for the information on replacing the starter contacts. I think I may do it on my 95 LS400. I began to experience the same problem a few weeks ago. I took it into the dealer and they said they would replace the starter for about $1000.00 (I am in the USA). You also may not know, but this was the subject of a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall in 1998. See the NHTSA website at www.nhtsa.org, select Recalls and follow the links to Lexus, LS400. It applied to LS400s between 1995 and 1997. I am currently fighting with the dealer to get them to fix my starter for free, but they are refusing, saying that my VIN number is not included in the recall. So, after reading your post Gary, I believe I can fix this myself. Thanks