Fuel mixture too lean RX 300

[drdu]

2000 RX 300
Engine light indicator code says the fuel mixture too lean. I have to guess that which sensor has been triggered ? 1) air flow sensor or O2 sensor?

Possible Solutions : 1) Change air filter ? 2) Add fuel injection cleaner ? 3) Use 89 octane fuel instead of 87 ?

Where is the air flow sensor located and how do I clean it ?
Are there two air filters in the Lexus RX 300 ?

[jhbhatia]

^^ you actually use 87 octane!!!!

[HoboJoe]

Gas prices may be going down, but they're still high.

[Streetglower]

if your mixure is too lean, changing an air filter wont do anything. Lean means too much air. you need to diagnosis the check engine light instructions from the manaul for the year car you have.

[drdu]

Do you think there's a crack in one of the hoses leading to the air filter intake? After I used a carb cleaning solution on a Qtip swab to clean the MAF sensor, the car won't start. It dies out after a few seconds.

[Streetglower]

you need to change your MAF now. You killed it. A maf sensor shouldnt ever need to be cleaned. it either works or doesnt work. You probably shorted out the sensor and that is why it runs for a few seconds and dies.

[drdu]

Well, should I get a new MAF sensor for my 2000 RX 300 from a Lexus delearship, Toyota delearship, or Autozone ? How much are we looking at ?

[Streetglower]

call and see if autozone carries one. They probably wont. But mAF sensors are expensive. SOmetimes around $300-$400. Need to call and find out.

[drdu]

Thanks Streetglower. Went to Toyota and got a new Airflow Meter sensor for $145 + tax. Car started right up with no problems. Reset the check engine light for now but I'll have to see if it goes on again. I'm thinking the too lean mixture is being triggered by a leaky vacuum hose. Keep you posted if it comes on again.

[Streetglower]

it could be anything. If you follow the steps for that code from a lexus manaul, they will give you specific things to check and it will lead you to your problem.

[KayCA]

I have a Lexus SC400 '92' it starts up fine in the morning, but after driving for about 30mins and park for like 5-10mins, the car will start up and then die. You 'll have to try starting for several times before it starts back up.
My mechanic suggests airflow meter, but due to the price at the dealership, I wanted to get a second opinion, and a possible Toyota car match.
Anyone with a clue ? Thanks.