Safety Warning

DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.

2012 Lexus LS 460 AWDFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

STARTER (For AWD): Disassembly: Disassembly

REMOVE STARTER MAGNETIC SWITCH ASSEMBLY
1. Remove the nut, and disconnect the lead wire from the magnetic switch.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Lead Wire And Nut
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
2. Remove the 2 nuts and starter magnetic switch assembly.
  
  Fig 2: Identifying Starter Magnetic Switch Assembly Nuts
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
REMOVE STARTER DRIVE HOUSING ASSEMBLY
1. Using a T30 "TORX" socket wrench, remove the 2 bolts.
  
  Fig 3: Identifying Drive Housing With Bolts
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
2. Pull out the starter yoke assembly and the starter commutator end frame assembly together with the armature.
REMOVE STARTER COMMUTATOR END FRAME ASSEMBLY
1. Remove the starter pinion drive lever.
  
  Fig 4: Identifying Starter Pinion Drive Lever
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
2. Remove the 2 screws and end frame.
  NOTE: While holding down the lead wire, remove the starter commutator end frame.

Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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