BenSpeedy
RX Hybrid dead battery
Summary of the thread
The 2007 Lexus RX hybrid experienced a complete failure to start, suspected to be due to a bad battery connection. The issue was likely caused by corroded or loose battery terminals, preventing power from reaching the starter motor. Cleaning and tightening the battery terminals resolved the problem, allowing the vehicle to start successfully.
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4 comment(s)
BenSpeedy (community.author)
Good analogy! I'll definitely check those terminals. I haven't checked the voltage yet, but I will. When you had the problem, did the check engine light come on, indicating some error in the system? Or was it just completely dead?
reinhardweiss10
Yes, the check engine light did illuminate, but that was after trying to jump start it a few times. Ultimately, it turned out the battery terminals needed cleaning and tightening. If the connections are severely corroded, I definitely suggest taking it to a qualified workshop. Some things are best left to the pros, especially with a hybrid system.
BenSpeedy (community.author)
Thanks for the insight. I checked the terminals like you said and they seemed okay, but I gave them a good scrub anyway and tightened everything up. Guess what? Fired right up! The workshop confirmed that it was just bad cable connections, at a cost of 155€. You saved me a ton of stress, and probably a bigger bill. Cheers!
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LEXUS
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RX
reinhardweiss10
I had a similar issue with my RX (not the hybrid though). It sounds like the battery cables could be to blame. Basically, the power isn't getting through to the starter motor. Double-check those terminals for corrosion or looseness. It's like trying to drink from a straw with a hole in it – the power leaks out before it can do its job. Did you check the voltage?