///MDex

98 GS 400
37.5k mi

Let me clarify what I consider a little hesitation.

Just the crank process; put in key, turn key, and it takes about a 1.5 - 2 seconds to turn over. The electrical system / starter sounds fine and strong; it just seems to take a tad too long for the engine to fire up.

The other day I thought I was imagining things, so I held the key the duration I thought I should, without listening for the engine to light up, and it didn't.

Maybe battery getting weak? Hot weather exacerbating the problem?

Once it starts up, its silk. And all other electrical systems seem strong; no hesitation in acceleration, or dips in rpms under any circumstances.

If I need a replacement, what would you guys get?

40k service approaching, so I may wait, but will this add up to extra wear on the starter?

TIA

Currently in Clayton, NC this week; anybody close?

Whitmanpc1

I have a 93 SC400 with 114,000 miles on it, and I "experience" the same thing. Long (1.5-2 sec.) turn over, but then silky-smooth after that.

I just assume it's because it's a big engine or something...I'm not worried! Also, it does the same thing even after a fresh battery replacement.

I hope this helps!

RealMarty

It's normal. Check out this thread -

https://www.clublexus.com/vb/showthr...light=computer

salimshah

GS4 does need a longer crank. RX3 on the other hand starts in half the time. It is VERY painful to watch my wife start the RX

Salim

RealMarty

A second or so while starting is painful to you?

Perhaps if you focus on what's taking ALL THAT TIME while the GS is starting is due to much more sophisticated computer technology than in the RX you can learn to smile and enjoy it. Or if it's really that painful you can sell the GS and get another RX.

LexusRules

this actually happens on my GS3 as well, i dont know what it is, but i do know its nothign to worry about. you'll somtimes notice that it starts right awya, or that sometimes it takes up to 2 seconds, don't worry your baby is fine

xsuperjoex

Just to let you guys know i had the same problem up until yesterday...

I got a new Battery (Optima Yellow Top) my car has never fired up so fast...

Just letting you guys know my experience that's all

nanotech

iTrader: (2)

I don't think my GS400 has that problem, but my 99 Nissan Quest (van) sure does, it takes 1.5 - 2 seconds to start up, sometimes I am thinking I am gonna mess up the starter or something by holding it so long in the start position (you know when it cranks), but it just doesn't start if I don't hold it there that long, maybe battery.....?

I am gonna get one of those Optima Yellow Top's for my GS400 though cause I can hardly listen to the radio for more than 1hr when the car is off without the battery dying!

///MDex

OK, so it's normal, but can be resolved by a new battery?

Hmmmm. I may invest in a new Yellow Optima before I do anything next....Even if its not the battery, it's been at least three years this car has been on the road, and I know it came from Fla., so it's got to be getting worn down by the heat over the years.


Thanks a ton guys

I snipped this from their websire for those interested....

RealMarty

NO. A new battery will not "solve" it.

The engine will crank faster but the computers still need to do their thing. You will still have a delay. Get used to it. It's part of the design.

gs4power

I agree with Marty. I didn't notice any difference with my Optima battery. My old battery was in good condition though, you may notice a difference if your old battery is REALLY bad.

///MDex

oooookkkkk,

then help me understand....

if the engine cranks any faster than it does now (immediate startup), then when / where would the 'delay' you reference be?

so is it coincidence about super, or just a mental thing? (no, I don't think you are mental joe )


not trying to be a smartass or nit pick, just trying to get an understanding of cause, effect, and result

RealMarty

Did you read the thread I pointed to earlier?

Knguyen OLD

Marty is dead on.

I noticed this when I first started my '01 GS430 a few weeks back. I was accustomed to my Acura just starting at the touch of the ignition switch. Although every car is different, the GS seems to start up the slowest(if a second or two is slow!!) - I cranked the LS430, the LX470 and the RX 300 and they all started differently. I then asked the lead technician( who happens to really know his ****** ) and he explained to me the process and that it is normal.

I think an Optima Battery would be placebo. Unless you really need it, it really won't make a difference.

Just my opinion and you know what they say about opinions.

Besides - are you driving a get-away car? Why do you need that extra second?

Khanh

salimshah

Missed this one by a mile Marty. The pain part is when the RX has fired but the Mrs holds the key at start. She expects 3+secs (accustomed to GS) while RX fires up in 1+sec. Love my wife and the vehicles so don't plan to rid of any.

Salim