Lexus SC engine stalling

I'm having an issue with my 2004 Lexus SC with a gasoline engine. The check engine light keeps coming on, and the engine occasionally stalls at idle. I've got about 84838 km on the clock. I suspect it might be a fuel tank ventilation system leak, possibly a defective activated charcoal filter. Has anyone else experienced this?

4 comment(s)

I had a similar issue with my SC. The check engine light and stalling are classic symptoms. Have you noticed any decrease in fuel efficiency or any hissing sounds coming from the fuel tank area? It could be related to the purge valve.

Thanks for the input. I haven't really noticed a drop in fuel efficiency, but now that you mention it, I think I might have heard a faint hissing sound near the rear wheel well recently. Could a faulty purge valve really cause the engine to stall?

Yes, absolutely. A faulty purge valve or a leak in the ventilation system can disrupt the air flow to the engine, causing it to stall, especially at idle. Given the hissing sound, it's highly probable that the system is failing. I'd advise getting it checked by a professional mechanic.

Appreciate the advice. I took it to a trusted workshop and they confirmed it was indeed the activated charcoal filter in the fuel tank ventilation system. The repair cost me 275€. Hopefully this solves the issue. Thanks again!

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