Lexus RC350 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your Lexus RC350 and How to Resolve Them

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
0%
15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
0%
55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Lexus RC350 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 Lexus RC350 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.

Troubleshooting Engine Stalling in a Lexus RC350

When troubleshooting engine stalling in your Lexus RC350, begin by checking the simplest potential causes. Start with the fuel system; inspect the fuel filter for clogs and ensure the fuel pump is functioning correctly, as these are common culprits behind stalling. Next, examine the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, as a dirty or malfunctioning sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues. Pay attention to symptoms like rough idling or hesitation during acceleration, which can indicate deeper problems. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider cleaning the fuel injectors and engine valves, as deposits can significantly affect engine performance. Additionally, stay informed about any recalls that may pertain to your vehicle, as these can provide insights into known issues. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address engine stalling, ensuring your Lexus RC350 runs smoothly and reliably.

What to Do When Your Lexus RC350 Engine is Stalling?

When your Lexus RC350 engine is stalling, understanding the common problems that may be at play is essential for effective troubleshooting. One frequent issue is related to fuel delivery; a clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump can significantly hinder the flow of fuel to the engine, resulting in stalling. Additionally, the air intake system can contribute to this problem; a dirty air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the proper air-fuel mixture, leading to engine hesitation or stalling. Ignition system components, such as worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils, are also critical to the engine's performance and can cause stalling if they fail. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner to check for trouble codes is a smart move, as codes like P0171 indicate a lean condition that needs to be addressed promptly. Regular maintenance practices, including inspecting fuel injectors and cleaning combustion chamber deposits, can help prevent these issues from arising. If you find yourself unable to diagnose the problem, seeking assistance from a professional mechanic is recommended to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Why is the Engine Stalling in a Lexus RC350?

When your Lexus RC350 experiences engine stalling, it’s crucial to act promptly, as neglecting this issue can lead to severe safety risks and costly repairs. Stalling can stem from various problems, including a malfunctioning fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or issues within the ignition system. These components are vital for maintaining the engine's performance, and any failure can result in unexpected power loss while driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, symptoms like sluggish acceleration and decreased fuel economy may indicate underlying issues such as dirty fuel injectors or air intake leaks, which can further exacerbate the problem if left unaddressed. By diagnosing the root cause of the stalling, whether it’s a faulty sensor or a fuel delivery issue, you can take the necessary steps to rectify the situation before it escalates into a more significant and expensive repair. Therefore, if you notice your engine stalling, it’s essential to investigate the issue immediately to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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.

Lexus RC350 Engine Stalling: Causes & Repairs | RepairPal