Executive Summary

I was kind of impressed by ChatGPTs rather good diagnoses AND descriptions of all warning indications.
- (My private discussion thread: chatgpt.com/c/68d7f5bf-edfc-8327-a32b-9cb7adf22111)
Have scheduled service with nearest Lexus dealer for tomorrow (3.3 mi / 5.3 km away) Plan is limping over.
(Do try OBD-II scanner but w/o any success trying to learn more.)

(ChatGPT) Q: What can be wrong…? …

What can be wrong…? The car starts but get all these light when start, and when put a gear into drive, the car jumps hard though still can be driven. Something feels very wrong.

(ChatGPT) A: I see the dashboard in your photo ….

I see the dashboard in your photo — multiple warning lights are on:

Check Engine (CEL)
ABS
Traction Control / VSC
AFS OFF (Adaptive Front Lighting System disabled)

Plus you described:

Car starts but jumps hard when shifting into drive
Still drives, but something feels very wrong

What this combination usually means

When several systems throw warnings together, it usually points to a shared issue affecting multiple control modules. Common causes:

Engine / transmission issue
- A failing sensor (e.g., MAF, crankshaft, throttle position, transmission speed sensors).
- Transmission control problem — rough engagement into drive suggests it may be in “limp mode”.
ABS / Traction disabled because of engine fault
- If the engine computer detects a major fault, traction control and ABS can be disabled as a safety measure, which explains those lights.
Electrical / power supply issue
- Weak battery or bad alternator can trigger multiple warning lights at once and cause harsh shifting.

What you should do right away

Do not drive far until checked. Harsh shifting can cause serious transmission damage.
Check battery voltage (should be ~12.6V off, ~14V running). Low voltage = possible alternator or battery failure.
Read the codes with an OBD-II scanner — this will tell you the exact fault (engine, transmission, or ABS). Many auto parts stores scan for free.
If the car slams into gear, avoid driving it except directly to a mechanic.

⚠️ Since you’re seeing Check Engine + ABS + Traction Control + transmission harshness, this is likely a major drivability problem, not just a simple sensor glitch.

👉 Do you want me to walk you through how to quickly check the battery/alternator yourself before assuming it’s the transmission?

(Me) Do have an OBD-II Scanner …

… and try connecting and learning more on error codes, but it really doesn’t help me. Messy user interface and after maybe ten minutes of messing around screens, downloading data, still not getting any useful info out of it. Stop it and wll drive car to Lexus dealer tomorrow.