2020 Lexus NX300 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2020 Lexus NX300 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 2020 Lexus NX300 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 2020 Lexus NX300 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 2020 Lexus NX300 engine is stalling?

When faced with a stalling engine in your 2020 Lexus NX300, the first step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes, as these can pinpoint specific issues within the vehicle's systems. Once you have this information, inspect the fuel system, focusing on the fuel pump, filter, and injectors to ensure they are delivering the necessary fuel to the engine. Next, examine the ignition system, including spark plugs and ignition coils, to confirm they are generating adequate spark. It’s also crucial to evaluate the air intake system for any blockages or leaks that could disrupt the air-fuel mixture. Additionally, inspect key sensors like the mass airflow and throttle position sensors to ensure they are functioning correctly. Finally, check for any vacuum leaks in the intake system, as these can significantly affect engine performance. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and address the root cause of the stalling issue, making your DIY repair process more efficient.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2020 Lexus NX300?

When diagnosing engine stalling issues in a 2020 Lexus NX300, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at fault. One of the primary culprits is fuel pump failure, which can prevent adequate fuel delivery to the engine, leading to stalling. Additionally, a faulty mass airflow sensor can disrupt the necessary air-fuel mixture, causing similar issues. Spark plugs also play a critical role; if they are dirty or malfunctioning, they can result in misfires that contribute to engine stalling. Another potential issue is a clogged fuel filter, which restricts fuel flow and can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly. Furthermore, problems within the ignition system, such as a faulty ignition coil, can lead to stalling as well. Lastly, vacuum leaks can significantly disrupt the air-fuel ratio, making it crucial to inspect hoses and connections for any signs of wear or damage. By understanding these common problems, DIYers can take the first steps toward diagnosing and potentially resolving stalling issues in their Lexus NX300.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2020 Lexus NX300?

When it comes to the engine stalling issue in a 2020 Lexus NX300, urgency cannot be overstated. Stalling can occur without warning, creating a significant safety hazard as it may lead to a sudden loss of power while driving, increasing the risk of accidents. For DIY enthusiasts, it’s crucial to recognize that ignoring these symptoms can exacerbate the problem, potentially resulting in more severe engine damage and costly repairs down the line. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any stalling issues not only ensure the vehicle operates smoothly but also safeguard against dangerous situations on the road. Therefore, if you experience any signs of stalling, it is imperative to investigate and address the issue immediately to maintain both safety and vehicle integrity.

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