c4yourself

Car was sold today to someone else......
Thanks,

Chuck

code58

Lexmex- I am curious about where you got the information (interference engine)? This has been bantered back and forth on both Lexus forums and I never did read a source that you "could take to the bank". The sources that I have searched say "non-interference". I have even read of Lexus mechanics taking different sides on the issue. Where is the factual information once and for all if Lexus mechanics can't agree on the issue?

artbuc

Roger, I feel your pain on this one. From what I gather, the V6 3.0L 1MZ-FE engine is interference with VVT and non-interference without VVT. However, like you, I have not been able to find a definite authoritative answer to this question. Maybe it is too close to call. That is, by design it is non-interference, but under certain conditions, wear, etc it can interfere. Who knows? Perhaps if the VVT control fails, you can get into an interference mode?

thomas1

Can you tell by the piston tops etc? I have pictures of everything. The machine shop told my neighbor it was an interference engine...the debate goes on.

lexus114

correct,vvt-interference non vvt non-interference.

Dietz

c4yourself,
I purchased my 1999 RX300 off my brother for 5k last May. It had 120,000 miles on it. Out of myown needs because I am **** about my cars I replaced the breaks, tune up, all filters and belts. My fllex pipe was also replaced, but that is common. Now, only 16k miles late the check engine light is always on. I have replaced 02 senors ($724 total) and it is in the shop again with more codes. I don't think you will be happy with the car. My car came clean and I am having trouble. Look for another one with less previous problems.
This car is the best in the snow though.

thomas1

Dietz, sorry for your frustration, they are basically good cars, but as in any of the newer cars on the market, troubleshooting problems can be expensive, welcome to the forum, we as a group have a great deal of knowledge and will save you $$$$ in the long run because you will have the power to deal with mechanics on a more even playing field. I hate seeing people ripped off, but remember mechanics are just human and make mistakes and are also at all different levels of experience, so their troubleshooting skills will vary. Continue on and maybe we can help you get past this crisis and make you a reasonably happy Lexus owner. I have had mine for 11 years and other than the transmission problem the car has been pretty solid. I know your NY weather is of course tougher on cars than my sunny mild california weather, but everyone here has different issues and we aim to help....

Dietz

I was only kidding Thomas1. If I could afford a new Lexus I am sure the car would be wonderful. This car has been great, but as soon as I hit that 130,000 mile mark it has been a headache. It handles the snow (I live in Saratoga Springs) great. I recommend this to anyone who has snow where they live. This car actually came from San Diego, it has been in NY only 2 years. Body wise it is clean and perfect. I will get through this and do it with a smile. Thank you for your advice and support.

Lexmex

VVT-i is interference, which is what our RX300s have, http://www.skillcentre.com/lexus.html

code58

Lexmex- Thanks for that clarification. I had not come across a chart that showed any detail, only either int. or non-int. I am still a little puzzled, did they just make a mistake on that chart because they are showing the VVT-i (interference as an inline 6 and the non-interference as a V-6). Assuming it's a mistake but I am frustrated by the number of mistakes I see like that in official Toyota publications.

lexus114

Well,unless you want the valve`s to dance around on the piston top`s when the belt brakes,trust us,it`s interference.

blueridge

Ha! Lexus told me: Oh, it's not interference.....Unless you are at a high RPM and then it is. I asked them to define "high RPM"......Oh, anything over 3000 RPM's. Okay, so cruising at 70 MPH would be interference? Yes..

Real answer, unless your engine is at idle.....It's an interference!

lexus114

As crazy as that sounds,they may be right about that.Because of the variable timing.But with my luck,it would break on I-78 (I fly 78,as we call it up here) doing 70-75 @ 32-3500 rpms.