2020 Lexus ES300h Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2020 Lexus ES300h: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2020 Lexus ES300h has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2020 Lexus ES300h has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps for a check engine light on a 2020 Lexus ES300h?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Lexus ES300h, it's crucial to start with a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, check your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that may offer further insight into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a vital step; by connecting it to your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system, you can retrieve specific error codes that indicate the nature of the issue. Additionally, pay attention to any unusual symptoms your vehicle may be exhibiting, such as rough idling or poor acceleration, as these can provide valuable context for diagnosing the problem. By following these initial steps, you can effectively gather the necessary information to either resolve the issue yourself or provide a detailed report to a mechanic, ensuring a more efficient repair process.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Lexus ES300h?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2020 Lexus ES300h, it signals potential issues that DIY enthusiasts can investigate. One of the most straightforward problems to address is a loose gas cap, which can often be tightened or replaced easily. However, if the light persists, it may indicate more complex issues such as a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring exhaust emissions and can lead to reduced fuel efficiency if malfunctioning. Another significant concern is the catalytic converter; if it becomes clogged or fails, it can trigger the check engine light and typically requires professional intervention. Additionally, worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils can cause engine misfires, contributing to the warning light's activation. The mass airflow sensor, responsible for measuring the air entering the engine, can also fail, impacting overall performance. Promptly diagnosing the cause of the check engine light is vital, as ignoring it can lead to more severe problems. While some issues may be manageable for DIY repairs, others may require the expertise of a qualified mechanic to ensure your Lexus operates efficiently and reliably.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Lexus ES300h?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Lexus ES300h, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning indicator is not merely a nuisance; it signifies that there may be underlying issues with your vehicle's engine or emissions system that require immediate attention. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to a cascade of problems, including decreased fuel efficiency and performance issues, which can ultimately escalate into more severe and costly repairs. Moreover, continuing to drive with this warning can risk further damage to the engine, potentially compromising your vehicle's safety and reliability. Therefore, it is highly advisable to have your Lexus inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. They can utilize diagnostic tools to accurately identify the issue and recommend the necessary repairs, ensuring that your vehicle remains in optimal condition and operates safely on the road. Taking prompt action not only protects your investment but also contributes to the overall longevity and performance of your Lexus ES300h.

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