ChanelBabe

I need guidance and hope the knowledgeable folks on this forum will give it.

My 1995 ES300 (111k miles) suddenly started knocking/sputtering/banging when it's started the 1st time in a day. It's been over a month. Basically the car seems to "work through" each RPM level. After 5-7 minutes, the RPM drops back to 0-1 and "she" purrs (which is normal).

At the same time, the check engine light came on. My mechanic replaced a few parts but nothing changed until he replaced the spark plugs.

She ran great for 2 weeks. Last week the knocking came back, much quieter and much shorter to go through all RPM levels. According to my mechanic, the codes indicated the problem could be either the air mass sensor or something else I don't remember (a fuel sensor?). They replaced the AMS and the car ran great. Also, the check engine light went out.

yesterday morning, car wouldn't start. This morning, car wouldn't start and the AAA service tech said it sounds like a problem with my fuel intake system. I've never had issues with my car not starting so replacing the AMS caused a problem or exposed the true problem.

Any suggestions for my mechanic?

I need this car to last me another year -- I'm not ready to buy a new Lexus.

Thanks for any help!