I have a 2002 rx300 which has covered 130k. As of last month its started producing a whining noise in neutral and as as it drove through the first 2 gears. The problem was most noticeable when the engine was cold. Lexus of Brighton spent sometime, at no cost, trying to diagnosed the fault without success.
I asked the opinion of a autogearbox specialist close, to where I live, who immediately suggested that the gearbox filter was blocked. I gave them the car to change the filter and transmission fluid. I doubt this included a flush as the fluid was already brown by the time i got home (1/2 mile). It did solve the problem for 200 miles!
The same company are quoting £1600+vat to remove and rebuild the gearbox. I haven't yet dare ask what Lexus charge.
Otherwise the car drives fine.
Has anyone else encountered this problem? Would a complete flush and filter change work?
I have to say it is rather disappointing. I have driven Rovers, Fords and Mercs to much higher mileages without encountering a major auto gearbox problem.