2016 Lexus NX300h Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2016 Lexus NX300h: 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
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60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Lexus NX300h 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 2016 Lexus NX300h 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 2016 Lexus NX300h?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Lexus NX300h, 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 irregular 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 provide insight into 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 illuminate. Don't overlook the importance of inspecting wiring and connections under the hood for any visible damage or corrosion, which could affect vehicle performance. Lastly, consulting your owner's manual can offer tailored guidance and troubleshooting steps specific to your model. By following these initial diagnostic steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed action.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2016 Lexus NX300h?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2016 Lexus NX300h, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, and simply tightening or replacing it may resolve the problem. If the light persists, the oxygen sensor is another common culprit, as it plays a crucial role in monitoring fuel efficiency and emissions. A malfunction here can lead to decreased performance and should be inspected. Additionally, the catalytic converter can also be a source of trouble; if it’s failing or inefficient, it can cause the check engine light to illuminate. Other potential issues include a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, which affects the air-fuel mixture, and worn-out spark plugs that can lead to engine misfires. Ignition coil failures and EGR valve problems are also worth investigating, as they can significantly impact engine performance and emissions. By understanding these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can take proactive steps to diagnose and address the issues, ensuring their Lexus NX300h runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 Lexus NX300h?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2016 Lexus NX300h, it is crucial to understand the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within the engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring this alert can lead to significant problems, including costly repairs and decreased vehicle performance. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to conduct a thorough inspection, starting with simple checks like ensuring the gas cap is secure, as minor issues can sometimes trigger the light. However, if the light persists, utilizing an OBD-II scanner can help identify the specific trouble codes, guiding you toward the underlying problem. Remember, timely action not only preserves the integrity of your vehicle but also enhances safety on the road, making it essential to address the check engine light without delay.

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2016 Lexus NX300h Check Engine Light Causes & Solutions