PSeelman

I have a 2000 ES300 that will, at times, hesitate during a hard acceleration. I have "punched it" while turning right in front of traffic a few times when the car almost comes to a complete stop, bogs down, and a couple of seconds later it will take off.
Has anyone experienced any sort of similar hesitation problems? Please let me know and email if you want. Thanks. arspgs830@aol.com

lexusgy

I have a 1992 ES300 and mine runs fine. Maybe you should get yours checked out. You have a 2000 ES, you have 210 horsepower huh? I have 185.

Steve Barnes

Mine bogs if it is not in PWR mode... Maybe you need to switch it to PWR (if you have the option) When it is in NORMAL the car wont drop down unless I Gun it really quick.

Lexpusher96

Probably just need a tune-up. Try spark plugs.

kreativ

I've heard about hesitation when flooring the gas pedal from rest or a slow speed.
Is this just how the auto transmission is designed?
I've heard this issue from owners of various later-model Lexus models.

PSeelman

Thanks for the comments. The car had less than 8,000 miles on it when I first noticed it; thus I don't think it needs new spark plugs nor a tune up. I did take it into dealership and they said "it looks fine to us." Didn't seem like they did much.

I did get one email indicating that their might be new transmission software that needs to be loaded. Anyone know of this? Thanks.

flipside909

Question, during these hard acceleration times...is the engine fully warmed up when you do so? Also, gasoline choice usually could be a factor. The 1MZ-FE has knock sensors that retard timing when knocking or detonation occurs. In this case, it will cause your tranny to shift rough or hesitate when using lower grades of gasoline or even poor quality gas. I only use 91 octane (Premium here in CA) Mobil or Chevron.

PSeelman

Well, in case anyone cares, I realize what the problem was. And maybe it was one of the response that I already got.

The problem is the Traction Control kicking in. When I would punch it from a stand still (especially when I was turning in front of traffic) my car would just bog down; almost to a complete stop then "jump." This happened most while trying to gun it turning in front of traffic. In these instances, my car would be leaning and one of the tires would not have as much weight on it as the other and therefore would want to spin faster. The TracControl, obviously not knowing if this was due to snow, ice, oil (or my need to get to work quickly), etc., would kick in and break/slow the car/tires so the tires would be in synch. DUH!!

Pretty *&^%$# on my part, but at least I realize its not a problem with my Lexus.

Steve Barnes

thats a pretty interesting thing to know.. did you ever try it with the T/C off... i guess you must have... was the difference alot?

exdotcomer

The problem you are describing sounds like your traction control is engaged. Disengage it next time you get a chance, and hold on!