2018 Lexus GS300 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2018 Lexus GS300 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 GS300 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 GS300 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 for a 2018 Lexus GS300 experiencing engine stalling?

When troubleshooting engine stalling in a 2018 Lexus GS300, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex issues. Start by connecting an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle to retrieve any error codes, as these codes can offer immediate insights into potential problems. 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, since faulty parts here can lead to misfires and stalling. It's also crucial to check the air intake system for blockages, as restricted airflow can significantly affect engine performance. Additionally, assess the functionality of key sensors like the mass airflow and oxygen sensors, as their malfunction can disrupt the fuel mixture. Finally, inspect the electrical system, including the battery and alternator, to rule out any electrical issues that might be causing the stalling. By methodically following these steps, you can effectively identify and address the root causes of engine stalling in your Lexus GS300.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2018 Lexus GS300?

When diagnosing engine stalling issues in a 2018 Lexus GS300, 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 disrupt the flow of fuel to the engine, leading to stalling. Additionally, the ignition system plays a critical role; faulty spark plugs or a failing ignition coil can prevent the engine from firing properly. Airflow obstructions, such as a dirty air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, can also hinder the air-fuel mixture, resulting in stalling. Furthermore, electrical problems, including a weak battery or a faulty alternator, can impact the engine's performance, while vacuum leaks from damaged hoses or gaskets can create imbalances that affect engine operation. By understanding these potential issues, DIY enthusiasts can effectively troubleshoot and address the root causes of engine stalling in their Lexus GS300.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2018 Lexus GS300?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2018 Lexus GS300 is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. An unexpected stall can lead to a loss of control while driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, neglecting this problem can exacerbate existing issues, potentially resulting in more severe engine damage and costly repairs down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize that timely intervention not only enhances vehicle performance but also ensures a safer driving experience. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential practices that can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems, ultimately saving time and money while keeping the vehicle in optimal condition. Therefore, if you notice any signs of stalling, it is advisable to investigate the cause and address it as soon as possible.

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2018 Lexus GS300 Engine Stalling: Causes & Solutions