Lexus LX570 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting Common Causes for the Check Engine Light in Your Lexus LX570 and How to Resolve Them

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 Lexus LX570 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 Lexus LX570 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.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a Lexus LX570

When faced with a check engine light in your Lexus LX 570, a systematic diagnostic approach can save you time and money. Begin by checking the most straightforward potential issue: the gas cap. A loose or damaged gas cap is a common culprit and can often be resolved by simply tightening or replacing it. If the light remains illuminated after securing the cap, the next step is to use an OBD-II scanner to read the trouble codes stored in your vehicle's computer. This tool can provide valuable insights into the specific issues affecting your engine. Once you have the codes, research their meanings to determine the severity of the problem. If the codes indicate minor issues, such as a faulty sensor, you may be able to address these yourself with basic tools. However, if the codes point to more serious engine problems, it may be wise to consult a professional mechanic. Remember, addressing the root cause of the check engine light is essential; simply resetting the light without fixing the underlying issue can lead to further complications down the road. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively troubleshoot and maintain your Lexus LX 570, ensuring its optimal performance.

What Common Problems Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a Lexus LX570?

When the check engine light comes on in your Lexus LX570, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems associated with this warning can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is worn spark plugs, which can lead to misfires and reduced engine performance. Another common issue is a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in regulating fuel efficiency and emissions; if it fails, it can cause the engine to run inefficiently. Additionally, a loose gas cap may seem trivial, but it can trigger the check engine light by allowing fuel vapors to escape, affecting the vehicle's emissions system. Lastly, wiring problems, such as contact failures or short circuits, can also lead to this warning light illuminating. By being aware of these potential issues, you can perform preliminary checks and possibly resolve the problem before seeking professional assistance, ensuring your Lexus LX570 runs smoothly and efficiently.

Why is the Check Engine Light On in a Lexus LX570?

When the Check Engine Light illuminates in your Lexus LX570, it serves as a crucial alert that should not be ignored. This warning can stem from various issues, ranging from minor concerns like a loose gas cap to more serious mechanical or electronic failures such as faulty oxygen sensors or worn spark plugs. Addressing these symptoms promptly is essential, as neglecting them can lead to more severe problems, including potential safety risks and costly repairs. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to check for simple fixes, such as ensuring the gas cap is secure. However, if the light persists, it’s vital to conduct a thorough inspection or utilize an OBD-II scanner to diagnose the underlying issue. Ignoring the Check Engine Light could result in significant damage to your vehicle, so taking immediate action is not just advisable but necessary for maintaining the health and safety of your Lexus LX570.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.