While test driving a 2001 Lexus ES300 the power died. Seemed to have started after adjusting passenger side seat. Radio turned off, then headlights, and eventually the car died. Any thoughts?

Asked by bpd1994 Dec 14, 2011 at 12:23 AM

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

875

Wolf_359 answered 12 years ago

Ah, this question brings back memories. The car was running off the battery, and the battery died. This because the alternator gave up the ghost and stopped charging the battery. Whether or not you bought the car, the solution is a new alternator, and find out why it died in the first place. If it was the original alternator from 2001, it gave good service and it died at a ripe old age. Replacing the alternator recently on my '96 ES300 was a surprisingly easy job. Took me about an hour. Next thing to do is have the battery tested to see if it is still good. Maybe a couple days on a Battery Tender® will restore life to it. A four or five year old battery should be replaced anyway, especially with winter coming. Good luck.

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