The telescoping motor in my steering wheel is dead but the up/down motor works, but I've noticed that if I move it into position and shut off the car, it moves up out of the way as expected, however when I start the car, it moves down a bit, but doesn't go back to the same spot. I'm not sure if this is a function of the memory button or not (haven't set mine yet) but just curious why it doesn't return to the last position.

 

Could the motor be weakening? I pulled my fuse a couple years ago because I didn't want it to get stuck in the wrong position...

 

Maybe, but the motor still works and sounds fine. I'm able to move it down to the correct position every time I start the car, I just wish it would go all the way each time , not just half way.

 

The steering column motor/motors is one of the weaker links in LS430 ownership. I have my car's entire history, and during the first year of ownership in 2001, the steering column was replaced. There are numerous threads on steering column issues. Almost immediately upon purchasing my car almost 10 years ago, I had the automatic move away feature of my steering wheel disabled. I'm the only person driving my car, so there are no issues for me. The steering column in our cars is far from robust.

 

I'll save you my story about how I fixed this on my GS400 but head over to eBay and search for "tilt steering control motor". It's a small box the tilt / telescopic motors plug into. I tried everything: cleaning the motors, even replacing one at one point. Finally wiggling the connection would get the wheel to respond with the car off. Purchased one used for $20 all is fixed. It's either that or try disassembling the motors and cleaning with rubbing alcohol. Both my tilt / telescopic work like the day I bought the car.

 

Try this : clean the motor and lube the steering column and poser screw .