You do not have the correct timing set for that car.
I have the exact same issue on our 1996 ES300..My suspicion is that it is indeed the switch
100k
I recently had to replace the trunk light in my '97 ES300. If you just need the bulb, it's NOT replacement #194 that Walmart, Advanced Auto and others list. You need a 12V, 3 Watt bulb that looks like a fuse. I finally had to buy mine from our local Lexus dealer. Pop open the light cover with a screwdriver and carefully pull out the bulb. Try this first because it's probably only the bulb that is bad.
Your gas cap may have been left loose or the oring on the cap needs replaced unless you have lost it. If this is the case do yourself a favor and buy the thirty dollar Lexus replacement
Check your oil level.
The front transmission line leaks, how do I replace it?
Shift solenoids are inside the transmission, and require disassembly of the transmission to replace.
very carefully or pay $800 for dealer to do the work
Remove the transmission unbolt the flywheel and replace.
Replace it.......its one bolt on the side of the transmission.....
To change the transmission modulator valve in a 97 Pontiac Bonneville you will first need to lift the vehicle off the ground. Then, remove the vacuum hose and the defective valve. You can then replace with new, and replace the hose.