Lexus OBD/OBD2 Codes

• Accessing Codes
• Reading Codes
• Clearing Codes
• OBD1 Codes
• OBD2 Codes
• Codes by Model / Year
• Questions & Answers

NOTE: 96 & later are OBD2 systems and require a scanner. For an OBD2 code list, please see our Lexus code list or the appropriate generic list.

Lexus: Accessing Diagnostic Trouble Codes

The check engine warning light will come on when the ignition switch is turned On and the engine is not running. When the engine is started, the check engine warning light should go off. If light remains on, the self-diagnosis system has detected a fault in the system.

1. Battery voltage must be 11 volts or more. Throttle valve must be fully closed. Transmission must be in Neutral position. All accessories must be turned Off.
2. On pre-OBD II models, turn ignition to On, then use a jumper wire to connect terminals TE1 and El of the data link connector, located under the left hand side of the instrument panel. Codes are indicated by the number of flashes of the check engine warning light.
3. On models with OBD II, utilize an OBDII scan tool, then connect to data link connector (DLC). Turn ignition and scan tool to On, and write down any codes and “freeze-frame data” that appear.

Lexus: Reading Trouble Codes

• If the ECU has detected a system malfunction, the check engine light will blink every .5 second.
• The first number of blinks will equal the first digit of a two digit diagnostic trouble code and after a 1.5 second pause, the second number of blinks will equal the second digit of same diagnostic trouble code.
• If there are two or more DTC’s, there will be a 2.5 second pause between each.
• After all DTC’s have been output there will be a 4.5 second pause and all DTC’s will be repeated as long as the terminals TE1 and El of the data link connector are connected.
• In the event of two or more DTC’s, indication will begin from smaller numbered code and continue in order to the larger.
• After all DTC have been recorded, remove jumper wire.

Lexus: Clearing Trouble Codes

• After service, the diagnostic trouble code or DTC’s retained in the ECU memory must be cleared by remove the EFI fuse for approximately 10 seconds or more, depending on ambient temperature (the lower the temperature, the longer the fuse must be left out) with the ignition switch off.
• The OBD II scan tool has a feature to clear DTC’s. Refer to the manufacturer’s manual for procedures.
• DTC clearing can also be done by removing the battery ground cable, other memory systems (clock) will also be cleared.
• If the diagnostic trouble code is not cleared, it will be retained by the ECU and appear along with a new DTC in future trouble codes.
• If it is necessary to work on engine components requiring removal of the battery ground cable, confirm no DTC’s are stored.
• After clearing codes, road test the vehicle to check that a normal operation. If the same diagnostic trouble code appears, the trouble has not been corrected.

Lexus: Diagnostic Trouble Codes Without OBD2

Lexus: Diagnostic Trouble Codes With OBD2

Lexus: Diagnostic Trouble Codes by Model / Year