RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009) Discussion topics related to the 2004 -2009 RX330, RX350 and RX400H models

Replace spark plug wires together with the plugs?

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Old 10-13-20, 07:10 PM
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oscarneto
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Default Replace spark plug wires together with the plugs?

Hello Lexuers!

I will replace the spark plugs and I would like to know if I should also change the wires?

The spark plugs I will use Bosch FR7NII35U.

Thanks for the assistance.
Old 10-13-20, 08:39 PM
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iMSQ
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It's up to you. It's not required if they look OK.
PS: What is the mileage?
PPS: You can change them at any time later...
Old 10-13-20, 08:40 PM
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iMSQ
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Originally Posted by oscarneto
...

The spark plugs I will use Bosch FR7NII35U.

....
I would recommend NGK...
Old 10-13-20, 08:53 PM
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oscarneto
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Originally Posted by iMSQ
It's up to you. It's not required if they look OK.
PS: What is the mileage?
PPS: You can change them at any time later...
42K... but the last owner stayed two and a half hours in traffic to drive 10-15 miles every day.

So I'm concerned, because it's still the factory plugs.

Originally Posted by iMSQ
I would recommend NGK...
Any special reason?
Old 10-13-20, 09:19 PM
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iMSQ
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Manual tells to replace spark plugs every 120k ))) So, you can safely drive the next 60k.
NGK were always the best OEM spark plugs replacement (NGK is the well-known supplier for car manufacturers).
Old 10-13-20, 09:30 PM
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oscarneto
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Originally Posted by iMSQ
Manual tells to replace spark plugs every 120k ))) So, you can safely drive the next 60k.
Even if the car is stopped for hours in traffic?

I understand that mileage is important when the car is running, but what about when it runs low in many hours? It's been 12 years using the same plugs!

About NGK and OEM, wouldn't it be better to use Denso instead?

Thanks!
Old 10-14-20, 07:39 AM
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matts6887
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i would stick with denso plugs which is what comes from the factory on these rxs. As for the wires; it really is up to you whether u do it or not.
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Old 10-15-20, 03:56 PM
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mumble
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Don't bother with the wires. I'd wait a few more years to do the plugs, they're probably fine.
Old 10-15-20, 10:29 PM
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Bogey2
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Default 2008 Only 42,000-Miles ❓

Originally Posted by oscarneto
Hello Lexuers!

I will replace the spark plugs and I would like to know if I should also change the wires?

The spark plugs I will use Bosch FR7NII35U.

Thanks for the assistance.
Amazing find 👍🏽
If it’s idling fine leave it be.
If idling rough on Premium Gas, ofcourse. I’d first change air and cabin filters. Then clean Throttle body and MAF Sensor.
Don’t use any gas additives at all.
Set of Michelin LT tires from Costco would be a better investment if original still on.
Remember: “Less is Better.”

Old 10-16-20, 07:45 AM
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per lexus the plugs should be replaced every 120,000 miles. Thats what lexus says.
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Old 10-16-20, 05:49 PM
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oscarneto
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Originally Posted by Bogey2
Amazing find 👍🏽
If it’s idling fine leave it be.
If idling rough on Premium Gas, ofcourse. I’d first change air and cabin filters. Then clean Throttle body and MAF Sensor.
Don’t use any gas additives at all.
Set of Michelin LT tires from Costco would be a better investment if original still on.
Remember: “Less is Better.”
Thanks! I searched it for a year!

The tires I change them to Yokohama G055.

Already changed engine/differential/automatic transaxle/transfer/steering oils (Castrol), air/oil/cabin filters (Mann) and break fluid (TRW). Now I am (was) concerned about the spark plugs, but will wait.

Is hard to clean the throttle body and MAF Sensor?
Old 10-17-20, 08:19 AM
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shikbas
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I have a 17 years old rx330,82 k miles with almost city driving 2-4 miles a time,replaced the plugs and really there was NO NEED ,,LOOKED LIKE NEW,,SO DO NOT WORRY
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Old 10-17-20, 02:25 PM
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Just so you know, the "spark plug wires" are part of the engine wiring harness, and who knows what an entire harness costs, but I bet there are possibly 40 connectors on it in total, not something you want to mess with.

Cleaning the throttle body is not hard it you remove it. I did mine, and after restarting the car, it idled high for a few minutes then settled down to normal idle quite nicely. I did not move the plate much, just carefully cleaned the carbon in both sides of it. Battery was disconnected.
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Old 10-19-20, 08:37 AM
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Default Clean Throttle body & MAF

Originally Posted by oscarneto
Thanks! I searched it for a year!

The tires I change them to Yokohama G055.

Already changed engine/differential/automatic transaxle/transfer/steering oils (Castrol), air/oil/cabin filters (Mann) and break fluid (TRW). Now I am (was) concerned about the spark plugs, but will wait.

Is hard to clean the throttle body and MAF Sensor?
MAF (Massive Airflow Sensor) sits on the duct next to AirFilter box/housing.
Two small phillips/star screws will let you pry it off. TOUCHING THE SENSOR PRONGS WILL CONTAMINATE IT.
Just spray outside and inside sensors with MAF spray cleaner only.
Removing all the flexi duct from AirFilter box to Throttle body Metal housing will expose the butterfly throttle flapper and the carbon accumulated around it. Spray the area with Carburetor spray cleaner only. Wiping the inside with a soaked micro-cloth on a stick/wand will help.
Always do above first when idle is rough. Premium gas ⛽️ 93/95 Octane is used by Lexus.
I’ve seen Lexus that have survived for decades on Regular gas ⛽️ 87/89 Octane and their plugs are rusty brown with plugged Catalytic Convertors, sub-standard performance 👎🏽
Ps. I wish Costco sold Yokohoma and Toyo tires !
Old 10-21-20, 09:09 AM
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Use Denso Spark Plugs. That's OEM. MAF (Mass Airflow Sensor) periodic cleaning is recommended. Use the "Mass Air Flow Sensor Cleaner." CFC Brand is a common brand.
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