I have a 1999 Lexus RX that appears to not be shifting to the last gear.?

Question

Specifically, I noticed that on the highway i am riding a constant 4500 - 5000 RPM while doing 65 - 70 mph. I also notice my gas mileage being approximately 10mpg. Does anyone know if this is a serious transmission issue? I just had the fluid changed about 3 months ago. My check engine light had been on, but went to Auto Zone and they told me that it was some gas sensor or fuel injectors. Fuel injector cleaner did not get rid of the light. I am due for a tune up as I have about 104K miles on it. Any ideas?

Answer 1

Are you sure the overdrive light is off?  If there is a light illuminated on the dashboard saying "O/D Off"  that means the transmission does not switch into it's final gear.  That is why your RPM is so high. There should be a button on the gear selector that allows you to turn on or off the overdrive function. (Overdrive is the last or final gear in the transmission.) Make sure the light is OFF. If the light is off, and it still is at a high RPM, that means your Transmission has a severe issue.  Take into Lexus and have them look at it.  It sounds like a problem because the check engine light is on.

Answer 2

you shouldve gotten an automatic! even though most people think manual is more fun  

Answer 3

If you have certain codes stored in your ecu the transmission will not shift into overdrive. fix the check engine light and your transmission problem will most likely fix it self.

Answer 4

I would get the code from them and then goto airtexengmgmnt.com and find out what the code means for your vehicle or just google the code and see what the lexus forums say about it. It will probably end up saving you alot of time and money (at 10mpg!).