Replaced headlight and now car won't start- please help!!
09-22-15, 07:23 AM
#91
Lexus Test Driver
Thread Starter
Out of my league
BGW70 - good explanation!!
LexBrett. I only suggested a timing problem based on the fact that the car was misfiring and shaking so badly. Actually checking that the belt hadn't jumped requires a fair bit of disassembly, and good knowledge of compression vs exhaust strokes in order to tind top-dead-center for timing.
There are some sensors/actuators(?) related to controlling the variable valve timing that are accessible from the front of the engine (one on each side). Not sure if they would cause the symptoms you describe if one went south. There are a few threads here, but can't remember what the parts are called.
Honestly, at this point I'd get it towed to somewhere you trust and get a clean diagnosis not based on the assumption that you did something while changing out the headlight.
LexBrett. I only suggested a timing problem based on the fact that the car was misfiring and shaking so badly. Actually checking that the belt hadn't jumped requires a fair bit of disassembly, and good knowledge of compression vs exhaust strokes in order to tind top-dead-center for timing.
There are some sensors/actuators(?) related to controlling the variable valve timing that are accessible from the front of the engine (one on each side). Not sure if they would cause the symptoms you describe if one went south. There are a few threads here, but can't remember what the parts are called.
Honestly, at this point I'd get it towed to somewhere you trust and get a clean diagnosis not based on the assumption that you did something while changing out the headlight.
I appreciate everyone's input. I'm waiting to determine next steps based on whether my insurance is going to help.
09-23-15, 06:05 AM
#92
Lexus Test Driver
Thread Starter
Update
Had a couple independent look at my car last night. They seemed legit, and we're using all kinds of computers and all kinds of gizmos. Indicated that the fuel trims were way off, such that the air fuel mixture was incorrect. Certainly makes sense. Told them I already checked TPS, PCV, MAF, 02 sensors, and did the carb method for leaks. They are coming back tomorrow with their laptops and adequate sunlight along with a vacuum diagram. Wish me luck..
By the way, I know some might just tow their car to a shop and see what happens. I just can't go through that again, and refuse to be held hostage by an unethical mechanic..
By the way, I know some might just tow their car to a shop and see what happens. I just can't go through that again, and refuse to be held hostage by an unethical mechanic..
09-23-15, 07:11 AM
#93
Lexus Test Driver
Had a couple independent look at my car last night. They seemed legit, and we're using all kinds of computers and all kinds of gizmos. Indicated that the fuel trims were way off, such that the air fuel mixture was incorrect. Certainly makes sense. Told them I already checked TPS, PCV, MAF, 02 sensors, and did the carb method for leaks. They are coming back tomorrow with their laptops and adequate sunlight along with a vacuum diagram. Wish me luck..
By the way, I know some might just tow their car to a shop and see what happens. I just can't go through that again, and refuse to be held hostage by an unethical mechanic..
By the way, I know some might just tow their car to a shop and see what happens. I just can't go through that again, and refuse to be held hostage by an unethical mechanic..
I still content you may have air coming in at the wrong place due to the aftermarket intake tube. Just guessing...
09-23-15, 09:48 AM
#94
Lexus Test Driver
Thread Starter
Anyways, will report back...
09-23-15, 10:25 PM
#95
Lexus Test Driver
Thread Starter
Problem solved
Problem solved. The timing was off. My replacing the headlight had nothing to do with it. Just a coincidence. Was all because of douche mechanic. Paid a good independent. Will elaborate more tomorrow..
09-24-15, 01:31 AM
#96
Lexus Test Driver
Bitter/Sweet, found the problem. Did it jump timing on both cams or just one?
How many teeth did it jump, hopefully no more than one.
A timing belt kit may be the ticket to get you back on the road.
Just curious, how did the previous mechanic make the engine jump timing? The timing belt is an "all or none" situation.
I would be more inclined to question the supplier of the engine and how many miles it has. They told you 91k, where is the proof? The mechanic received the engine from a salvage yard, they pulled the engine and wrote a mileage.
My point is to be very careful about blaming this on the mechanic.
Things like High miles and high resistance during the compression stoke, i.e. Back firing, can cause the engine timing to jump.
I just hope they honor the engine warranty and if they do, let you choose your next mechanic.
How many teeth did it jump, hopefully no more than one.
A timing belt kit may be the ticket to get you back on the road.
Just curious, how did the previous mechanic make the engine jump timing? The timing belt is an "all or none" situation.
I would be more inclined to question the supplier of the engine and how many miles it has. They told you 91k, where is the proof? The mechanic received the engine from a salvage yard, they pulled the engine and wrote a mileage.
My point is to be very careful about blaming this on the mechanic.
Things like High miles and high resistance during the compression stoke, i.e. Back firing, can cause the engine timing to jump.
I just hope they honor the engine warranty and if they do, let you choose your next mechanic.
Last edited by Bgw70; 09-24-15 at 01:46 AM.
09-24-15, 05:40 AM
#97
Lexus Test Driver
Thread Starter
Bitter/Sweet, found the problem. Did it jump timing on both cams or just one?
How many teeth did it jump, hopefully no more than one.
A timing belt kit may be the ticket to get you back on the road.
Just curious, how did the previous mechanic make the engine jump timing? The timing belt is an "all or none" situation.
I would be more inclined to question the supplier of the engine and how many miles it has. They told you 91k, where is the proof? The mechanic received the engine from a salvage yard, they pulled the engine and wrote a mileage.
My point is to be very careful about blaming this on the mechanic.
Things like High miles and high resistance during the compression stoke, i.e. Back firing, can cause the engine timing to jump.
I just hope they honor the engine warranty and if they do, let you choose your next mechanic.
How many teeth did it jump, hopefully no more than one.
A timing belt kit may be the ticket to get you back on the road.
Just curious, how did the previous mechanic make the engine jump timing? The timing belt is an "all or none" situation.
I would be more inclined to question the supplier of the engine and how many miles it has. They told you 91k, where is the proof? The mechanic received the engine from a salvage yard, they pulled the engine and wrote a mileage.
My point is to be very careful about blaming this on the mechanic.
Things like High miles and high resistance during the compression stoke, i.e. Back firing, can cause the engine timing to jump.
I just hope they honor the engine warranty and if they do, let you choose your next mechanic.
In any event, just so thrilled to have sc back. She is a mess and have to clean her up now. Plus, the headlight looks fantastic :-)
09-24-15, 08:46 AM
#98
Lexus Test Driver
Lex,
I certainly understand how you feel about Tony and I am sure I would feel the same! Did you already have the fixed or is that happening now?
Either way, I am sincerely happy for you!!!
Be sure to share all of the details with us, when able.
I certainly understand how you feel about Tony and I am sure I would feel the same! Did you already have the fixed or is that happening now?
Either way, I am sincerely happy for you!!!
Be sure to share all of the details with us, when able.
09-24-15, 09:11 AM
#99
Lexus Test Driver
Thread Starter
It's fixed. Joy, joy, joy. Had nightmares about sending her to the junkyard... my independent did notice that a pulley needs to be replaced, but for now everything is great
09-24-15, 11:52 AM
#100
Lex,
I know you must feel like the weight is lifted off your shoulders. Enjoy.
It's strange how it went from Engine feels incredible. More power and more responsive. Don't know her origins, but she *looks* new! to it won't idle due to timing being off.
Regardless glad for you that it's running well.
I know you must feel like the weight is lifted off your shoulders. Enjoy.
It's strange how it went from Engine feels incredible. More power and more responsive. Don't know her origins, but she *looks* new! to it won't idle due to timing being off.
Regardless glad for you that it's running well.
09-25-15, 08:24 AM
#103
Lexus Test Driver
Thread Starter
P0441
P0441 today, will check my shop manual, but assume I will need to check vacuum lines around the Vehicle Switching Valve, the connection, and my gas cap. Any other suggestions? Very logical to get this code since my independent was going through every sensor in the car and checking vacuum lines..
On an unrelated note, the insurance adjuster called this morning and wants to take a look at my car. I chose to have my car repaired on my own, given that I felt it was highly unlikely the insurance company would follow through and repair properly.
When I call him today, I will ask him if I can be reimbursed for the adjustment of the valve timing. Not sure what he would say but it is worth a shot. In hindsight I could have waited for him to call me back and get insurance to repair, but I have waited for months and months for this guy to call me back...
Will also talk to him about unauthorized repairs. If insurance won't help, I have other plans... he he he
On an unrelated note, the insurance adjuster called this morning and wants to take a look at my car. I chose to have my car repaired on my own, given that I felt it was highly unlikely the insurance company would follow through and repair properly.
When I call him today, I will ask him if I can be reimbursed for the adjustment of the valve timing. Not sure what he would say but it is worth a shot. In hindsight I could have waited for him to call me back and get insurance to repair, but I have waited for months and months for this guy to call me back...
Will also talk to him about unauthorized repairs. If insurance won't help, I have other plans... he he he
Last edited by LexBrett; 09-25-15 at 08:32 AM.
09-25-15, 09:49 AM
#105
Lexus Test Driver
Thread Starter
I'm not that worried about the p0441 code, as it is pretty generic and doesn't effect drivability. But it's true she has become my second tuner car. At least now I have the option of selling if need be. But with new tires and wheels, fresh fluids, and rebuilt engine I hope things work out and I get to keep her. If I truly decide to have her as a mod car, maybe I will go nuts and run Nitrous :-)