2018 Lexus ES350 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2018 Lexus ES350 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 Lexus ES350 engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
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 2018 Lexus ES350 engine is stalling?

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.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

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.

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 to take when a 2018 Lexus ES350 engine is stalling?

When faced with a stalling engine in a 2018 Lexus ES350, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to effectively identify the root cause. Start by checking for error codes using an OBD-II scanner, as these codes can reveal specific issues within the vehicle's systems. Next, inspect the fuel system, focusing on the fuel pump, filter, and injectors to ensure they are delivering adequate fuel to the engine. Following this, examine the ignition system components, including spark plugs and ignition coils, to confirm they are functioning correctly and providing the necessary spark for combustion. Additionally, evaluate the air intake system for any blockages or damage that could hinder airflow. Testing the various sensors, such as the mass airflow and oxygen sensors, is also crucial, as they play a vital role in the engine's performance. Lastly, don't overlook the battery and charging system; ensuring they are in good condition can prevent power-related stalling issues. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the stalling problem in your Lexus ES350.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2018 Lexus ES350?

When diagnosing engine stalling issues in a 2018 Lexus ES350, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is the fuel system, where a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump can impede fuel flow, leading to stalling. Additionally, the ignition system plays a critical role; faulty ignition coils or worn spark plugs can cause misfires, which may result in the engine stalling unexpectedly. Airflow obstructions, such as a dirty air filter or a defective mass airflow sensor, can also disrupt the necessary air-fuel mixture, further contributing to stalling issues. Electrical problems, including faulty sensors or wiring issues, can interfere with the engine's performance, while vacuum leaks can create an imbalance in the air-to-fuel ratio, exacerbating the stalling problem. By understanding these potential issues, DIY enthusiasts can effectively troubleshoot and address the root causes of engine stalling in their Lexus ES350, ensuring optimal vehicle performance.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2018 Lexus ES350?

When it comes to the engine stalling issue in a 2018 Lexus ES350, urgency cannot be overstated. Engine stalling is not just a minor inconvenience; it poses serious safety risks, particularly if it occurs unexpectedly while driving. This sudden loss of power can lead to a loss of control, increasing the likelihood of accidents or collisions, especially in high-traffic situations. Moreover, neglecting this issue can exacerbate the problem, potentially leading to more severe engine damage and costly repairs down the line. By addressing the stalling promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's reliability but also ensure your peace of mind while on the road. Taking immediate action can prevent the disruptions and dangers associated with unexpected stalling, making it essential for any DIY enthusiast to prioritize this concern.

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