2012 Lexus ES Hybrid Exhibiting Engine Issues and Emission Problems

Hey there! I totally get where you're coming from. I had something similar with my 2015 Lexus GS. The symptoms sound about the same - rough idle, judder on acceleration, unstable engine power and my beast would even stall out unexpectedly. Turned out to be a faulty cable/plug on the idle control valve. Indeed, this was a serious issue as it directly impacts the airflow into the engine and affects the performance. When my mechanic took a closer look, he verified that it was indeed causing erratic idle and poor acceleration response. My car had to be in the garage for some time. They checked the whole system and after testing, they concluded that the idle control valve had to be replaced entirely. The wiring was also defective and had to be sorted out as well. In terms of fixing it, it did involve some work but nothing too overwhelming. They had to remove the throttle body to reach the idle control valve and replaced it. After that, they worked on the cable wires, replaced the defective ones and fit them back in correctly. Once everything was done, she was running like a dream. Smooth, no stalling and no more check engine light. I'd definitely recommend taking your car to a mechanic you trust and get it checked out. It's not an issue to ignore. Hope this helps.

Hey, thanks for the quick reply. That does sound like something similar to what I'm experiencing with my ES. I can see how the faulty idle control valve and wiring could lead to the problems you mentioned. So, replacing the idle control valve and fixing the wirings turned out to be the solution for your Lexus GS, huh? Now, if you don't mind me asking, do you remember how much the whole fix set you back? Also, have you come across any related issues since then? I'd appreciate it if you could share more. Thanks.

Hey there! No problem, always happy to help out a fellow motorhead. Yep, you got it right - replacing the faulty idle control valve and tidying up the wiring fixed up my GS real nice. As for how much the dent was in the wallet, well, it came to a total of €155.00 - that was mostly for getting the shonky cable/plug on the idle control valve sorted. Sounds steep, I know, but considering the difference it made to my ride, I reckon it was money well spent. Since I got that sorted with my mechanic, touch wood, but no more problems. My GS has been purring like a kitten at idle, and the throttle response feels just as it should - no rough edges or stalling. Honestly feels like driving a whole new set of wheels. So I'd totally suggest getting that checked out on your ES. Runs smooth! It's a bit of a hassle and a few bucks, but I'd say it's totally worth it in the end. Cheers!

Alright you've been a great help, I sincerely appreciate it. €155 sounds fair enough, especially considering how much of a difference it made to your GS. Your experience has really given me a good clue on what to expect, and it defiantly sounds worth it in the long run. I reckon my next move is to find a reliable mechanic and get this thing sorted out. I gotta admit, I'm looking forward to having my ES purring like a kitten again, just like your GS does now. Thanks again, champ! Chat soon and hope your ride keeps running smooth! Cheers!