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2020 ES 300h No Start - All Lights On, No Crank

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:24 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Lexus ES 300h Luxury

Hi everyone,

My 2020 Lexus ES 300h is having a strange issue. This morning, I went to start it, and nothing happened. When I press the start button, all the dashboard lights come on, the radio works, and the headlights turn on – basically, all the electronics seem fine. But there's absolutely no crank, no sound from the engine trying to turn over.

I tried jump-starting it with another car, just in case it was a weak 12V battery, but that didn't help either. I'm wondering if it could be the starter motor, a relay, or maybe even something with the hybrid system's main battery not engaging the starter. There are no warning lights specifically for the hybrid system.

Has anyone experienced this with their ES 300h or a similar Lexus hybrid? What should I be looking at? It's really inconvenient not being able to move the car. Thanks!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:24 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It's frustrating when your 2020 Lexus ES 300h won't start, especially when all the electronics seem to be working. This 'no crank, but lights on' scenario points to a few specific areas in hybrid vehicles.

Here’s a breakdown of potential causes and diagnostic steps:

  1. 12V Battery Check (Again): Even if you tried a jump start, ensure the 12V battery is robust. While lights work, the starter (or the hybrid system's inverter which acts as the starter) requires a significant current. A weak 12V battery might not provide enough power to engage the main contactors for the hybrid system or the starter relay. Have the 12V battery professionally tested for capacity and cold cranking amps.
  2. Brake Pedal Sensor/Switch: In most push-button start vehicles, the brake pedal must be fully depressed for the car to start. A faulty brake pedal sensor or switch won't register this input, preventing the start sequence. Check if your brake lights illuminate when you press the pedal.
  3. Shift Lever Position: Ensure the car is firmly in 'Park' (P) or 'Neutral' (N). If the transmission range sensor is faulty, the car might think it's in gear, preventing a start. Try shifting to Neutral and attempting to start.
  4. Starter Relay/Fuse: Although hybrid systems use the motor/generator as a starter, there are still relays and fuses involved in the starting circuit. Consult your owner's manual for the location of the starter relay and relevant fuses, and check them for continuity.
  5. Hybrid System Inverter/Motor-Generator: In a hybrid, the electric motor acts as the starter. If there's an issue with the inverter that controls this motor, or the motor itself, it won't be able to turn the engine over. This often triggers specific hybrid system warning lights, but not always immediately.

When to see a shop:

Given that it's a hybrid, diagnosis can be more complex. If checking the 12V battery, brake pedal switch, and fuses doesn't resolve the issue, it's highly recommended to have your Lexus towed to a dealership or a specialized hybrid repair shop. They have the necessary diagnostic tools (like Techstream) to read specific hybrid system fault codes and accurately pinpoint the problem, which could range from a faulty inverter to a main hybrid battery contactor issue.

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