2019 Lexus LS500 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2019 Lexus LS500: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2019 Lexus LS500 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 2019 Lexus LS500 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 to take for a check engine light on a 2019 Lexus LS500?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2019 Lexus LS500, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a frequent culprit for triggering the light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard gauges for any additional warning lights or unusual readings that might indicate other underlying issues. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; by connecting it to your vehicle's diagnostic port, you can retrieve specific error codes that will guide you toward the problem. Additionally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can also cause the check engine light to activate. A visual inspection of the wiring and connections under the hood is advisable to identify any signs of damage or corrosion that could affect vehicle performance. Finally, consulting your owner's manual can provide valuable insights into the specific meanings of the check engine light and recommended actions tailored to your Lexus LS500. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed action to resolve the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2019 Lexus LS500?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2019 Lexus LS500, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most frequent culprits is a loose gas cap, which is an easy fix that can often be overlooked. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects fuel efficiency but can also lead to more significant engine problems if not addressed. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the light, indicating a need for inspection or replacement. Worn-out spark plugs are another potential cause, as they can lead to engine misfires and reduced performance. The mass airflow sensor is crucial for maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture, and any malfunction here can also illuminate the check engine light. Ignition coil issues can result in misfiring, while an overall engine misfire can stem from various factors, including bad spark plugs or fuel injectors. Understanding these common problems can empower DIY enthusiasts to take the first steps in diagnosing and potentially resolving the issues, although consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable for more complex repairs.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2019 Lexus LS500?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2019 Lexus LS500, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to a cascade of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency and performance degradation, which may ultimately result in costly repairs. The vehicle's sophisticated onboard diagnostics system is designed to help you identify the specific issue, making it easier to troubleshoot. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can guide you in understanding the underlying problem. However, while some issues may be minor and manageable at home, others could pose safety risks or lead to significant engine damage if left unaddressed. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the severity of the situation and, if necessary, consult a qualified mechanic to ensure that your vehicle remains in optimal condition. Taking prompt action not only safeguards your investment but also enhances your driving experience.

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