Check Engine Light and Strong Exhaust Smell in 2018 Lexus LC: Possible Air Valve Issue?

Hey there! I feel you! No one really enjoys those unwanted surprises, especially when it comes to our beloved vehicles. I myself faced a pretty similar situation with my 2015 Lexus NX a while back. Had the same issue with the check engine light and even noticed a drop in fuel efficiency, plus that nasty exhaust smell. Initially, I shrugged it off, bad move! Took it to my local garage and turned out it was indeed the secondary air valve and secondary air pump that were the culprits. My mechanic explained that these components essentially help in reducing emissions by pushing air into the exhaust, helping to warm up the catalytic convertor faster. If either of them fails, it could lead to these symptoms, including reduced fuel efficiency and a strong exhaust smell. More importantly, ignoring these signs can potentially lead to more serious issues down the road, especially engine damage (not trying to scare you!). So, better get it fixed ASAP, just to keep your LC purring like a happy kitty! Hope this helps, good luck!

Hey there! Thanks for sharing your experience, it sounds eerily similar to mine. I guess I'll have to bite the bullet and take my LC in to get checked - at this point, I can't ignore the signs anymore. By the way, since you went through the same trouble, do you recall pretty much how much you were charged for the repairs? And after they fixed up the secondary air valve and pump, any other issues cropped up afterwards? Hope I'm not asking for too much, just trying to brace myself for what's coming. Thanks again!

Hey, no problem at all, happy to help out another fellow driver! After the mechanic took a look at my Lexus NX, it turned out the air valve was indeed faulty. The repair, which also included fixing a faulty cable/plug connection of the secondary air valve and secondary air pump, cost me around 95€. Since this repair everything has been running smooth as silk. The check engine light stopped its annoying flashing and the fuel economy bounced back to normal. Plus, that nasty exhaust smell? Gone! So, don't worry too much, just take your LC in to get it checked out. These things happen, and usually it’s better sooner than later. You'll probably feel a lot better once it's done, I sure did! Good luck!

Hey! I really appreciate your detailed response! Good to know that you were able to fix the problems without any other problems. Selling an arm and a leg was not on my list! Your price range is a bit reassuring. I'll set up an appointment with my mechanic this week then. I'm glad to know that it improved your situation. I miss the peaceful ride without that annoying check engine light. Fingers crossed. Thanks again for the assistance you really helped alleviate my worries! Cheers!