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MattSchmitt

Seeking Advice on 2021 Lexus IS Hybrid Experiencing Power Loss, Poor Fuel Economy, and Possible Lambda Sensor Issues

Hey everyone, I've got a 2021 Lexus IS Hybrid that’s giving me a fair bit of a trouble. It's been belching black smoke when I step on the gas, the check engine light's on, feels like it’s losing power, the engine's pretty shaky, and it jerks when I try to accelerate. Don’t even get me started on the fuel economy. Been thinking it might be an issue with the lambda sensor heater. Anyone experienced anything similar and can offer any advice or suggestions? How’d you get it sorted in the shop? Would appreciate your insights and experiences. Thanks a lot!

4 comment(s)

AdelineWheels

Hey there! I've got a 2019 Lexus ES, pretty similar to your IS Hybrid, and I had an issue just like this. Now, I can’t say I’m a complete pro, but I do have some experience under my belt when it comes to dealing with cars. When my ride started acting up just like you're describing, it indeed turned out to be a defective Lambda sensor heater. Dealt with it at my local workshop. Even though it was a bit of a dent in the wallet - 375€ - the old girl’s running smooth now. By the way, can you give more info about your vehicle? Mileage maybe, how often you service it, stuff like that. It could be an underlying issue that might help us see the problem more clearly and possibly save a few bucks. Cheers!

MattSchmitt (Author)

Hey! Thanks for the quick response and sharing your experience. To answer your question, my Lexus IS Hybrid has about 160,719 KM on it. The last service check was pretty recent. But considering the symptoms, I was wondering if there might be some issues that the service missed. I guess I'll be bringing my car to the shop soon to check on the Lambda sensor heater, as you suggested. Hoping it won't cost an arm and a leg! Cheers.

AdelineWheels

Hey again! Always happy to lend a helping hand. Your mileage is pretty considerable, so things like this can definitely start cropping up. Now, I know it's a bit worrying, but keep in mind cars are complex pieces of machinery, and even regular service checks can miss some potential gremlins! Especially given that the Lambda sensor heater isn't usually something that's checked routinely, it can often be overlooked. Just brace yourself for a potential hit in the pocket, my. But look at it this way - once it's sorted out, you'll be back on the road whizzing away without these troubles. For now, though, I'd strongly recommend running that diagnostic test, and then proceeding based on what they find. If it's the Lambda sensor heater, as we suspect, then at least you'll have sussed out the issue earlier rather than later. Best of luck with it all! Keep us posted on what goes down at the workshop. Fingers crossed it doesn't cost too much! Stay safe.

MattSchmitt (Author)

Hey! You're spot on. Cars can sometimes be a bit of a headache. Honestly, the thought of that diagnostic bill is making me cringe, let alone the potential repairs! Fingers crossed it's something minor, or at least, not as costly as your Lambda sensor heater experience. Anyways, thanks heaps for the advice and the well-wishes. Will definitely keep you and the rest updated about the progress at the workshop. Until then, cheers and stay safe too!

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