Lexus RC rough running exhaust smell

Alright, gearheads, I'm pulling my hair out here. My 2022 Lexus RC hybrid is throwing codes like confetti. I'm getting the check engine light, the engine is running rough, and I can smell exhaust – a LOT of exhaust. Car has 149358 km on it. I'm pretty sure there is also an exhaust leak and strong smell. What gives? Is it the DEF fluid? Maybe a cracked exhaust pipe?

4 comment(s)

I had a similar problem with my RC. Same symptoms – rough running, check engine light, exhaust smell. Have you checked your oxygen sensor (lambda) before the catalytic converter? That was my issue.

Oxygen sensor, huh? I hadn't thought of that. Where exactly is that located, and is it an easy job to swap out?

It's screwed into the exhaust pipe before the cat. Honestly, while it looks easy, you can easily strip the threads, and you need a special socket. If you're smelling that much exhaust, and the engine's running rough, get it to a workshop. Trust me. It's probably the lambda sensor.

Thanks! I appreciate the advice. Lambda sensor was indeed the culprit. 375€ later, the RC is running like a champ again!

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