ChasFenwick

Although there has been an oddity here and there, I've now experienced the first clear-cut failure in my 1999 LS-400, with 20,000 miles on it.

Here is what is happening:

When at idle, maneuvering in a parking lot, all of a sudden there will be no power steering assist at all. It's like throwing a switch. This condition will persist for a couple of seconds or maybe up to 10 or 15 seconds. Then, like throwing a switch, the power assist will return to normal. There are no strange noises accompanying this.

This is observed once or twice per week at most.

There has been NO loss of power steering fluid.

Since the nearest Lexus dealer is 80 miles away, and no doubt the car will refuse to exhibit this behavior in front of a service technician, I want to arm myself with whatever wisdom I can get from this forum before going this route.

What say? Have you seen this, and gotten it fixed?

Thanks.

ChasFenwick

There has been no loss of power steering fluid, and the level appears to be proper.

ChasFenwick

No, it has not been cold when this has occurred. Probably temp in the 70's and 80's.

On your other points, I'll have to do some more observing and will report if and when I can add to what has already been said.

Thanks.

Stephen

There are some problems with the P/S pump. I would definately look for a short or a fluid blockage there.

My 98 has 100,000 miles without this problem.

Good luck Chas.