My friend's auto gen 3 rx started sputtering as he pulled into his parking spot this morning. He shut if off, forgot about it, came back after work, and it refused to start and run. It turned over just fine, but it refused to run. He poured tranny fluid in to get it started and running, but when put in Drive or Reverse, the engine would just die. What does this sound like?

btw, I'm Jack, I have a first gen RX and am normally in that forum

Thanks a lot in advance for your input,

JackO

 

Did it ran out gas?

 

I had the same problem... sounds like your apex seals are worn out .... but before you flip out , check your MAP sensor. You might change your plugs, and reset the ECU. If all fails , get the compression checked.

 

nope, has a full tank...

 

I was hoping you wouldn't say that

 

Obious things first..... I would not recomend pouring AT fluid in a 3 gen, it may work for a carb car not a state of the art twin turbo, anyways; How old is the fuel filter? Pettit recomends changing it very often

 

Where's the map sensor located?

 

fuel filter is new

 

Has the check engine light turn on at all?

 

Yes, the check engine light is on...

 

Start by retrieving the code from the ECU. It may pinpoint your trouble.

 

wher'es the MAP sensor??? thanks for your help!!!

 

do you have a phone number i can call you on??? or AIM screen name??? my friend's from tallahassee.

 

call me please on my cell, err... call my friend... we're together at the "crash site" 703-282-1123... call him and he'll call right back... his name's dustin, and mine's jack again... thanks

 

I have a dial up connection, and the MAP sensor is a little black box on the firewall next to the brake fluid/brake booster. Cant miss it it says boost sensor on top. It is possible that it could have become disconnected when he was driving but I doubt is that.