Bob Small

Hiya,no one else chimed in so i thought id mention that there are a lot of posts about this subject if you use the search function, i seem to remember there could be a few differing options or causes to this kind of thing

I found a lot of posts mainly about the problem with being unable to turn the lights off. Or the lights coming back on again when the ignition was turned off. These problems also seemed to relate to water leakages especially after a windscreen replacement.

I couldn't find any that mentioned an actual sensor failure.

But I will check out the wiring connectors in the right side panel.

I would still like to know how to test the sensor itself.

'99 IS200

It would seem that the headlight auto on/off sensor has failed.

The lights work OK when switched on/off manually so I don't think it is any of the headlight fuses or relays.

So I suspect the sensor (the one on the top of the dash).

Any hints on

1) How to remove and replace?

2) What are the specs for a new sensor. Pinouts or a wiring diagram would be useful.

There are a couple on eBay at the moment. You can also buy them from Lexus/Toyota though they're quite expensive.

Have you got a link to the eBay items? I couldn't find any.

My dealer quoted me around AU$150 (approx 75 pounds) and it would have to come from Japan.

:D All fixed!

Thanks guys.

I squirted some silicone spray into the barrel and after a few hits on the barrel it freed up.

Yes, I meant that the remote opening of the boot would not work.

I checked the owners manual and that is correct.

It states that "If the key is in the ignition switch, the trunk lid cannot be unlocked with the wireless key".

And thanks for the pointers to the workshop hints.

Can someone else confirm that? (that the key cannot be removed in the ACC position)

The only times I have used the ACC position I have left the key in the ignition. So I can't say for certain if it can be removed. The owners manual doesn't say one way or the other.

How big a deal is it to replace the ignition lock and/or the cylinder?

If the cylinder is replaced does that mean new keys? or can a new cylinder be matched to the existing keys?

IS200 May 1999 build. Done approx 85,000kms

The ignition lock is in the ACC position with the key removed.

The security light on the dash (which normally blinks) is OFF

The keys (all three, the two electronic ones and the valet key) will lock and unlock the car doors manually (ie by inserting into the driver's door lock) but none of the keys will remote lock, unlock, or open the boot.

No key will turn in the ignition. It cannot be turned from the ACC position. The steering is not locked and the wheels can be turned.

The Battery is charged. The radio is working.

I had taken the car from home on Saturday morning to the local shops. Locked and unlocked as usual. On to the next shop. Same. And onto a third destination. This is where the car failed. It is currently stuck (fortunately in a secure location) and is immobile.

I initially thought that the Battery in my key was flat, but trying the second key did not help. And, surprisingly, the valet key didn't work either. It was then I realised that the immoboliser light was not blinking (it was off). So I suspect a faulty immoboliser.

Is there a fuse?

Is there a reset procedure?

Should I disconnect and reconnect the Battery?