Lexus NX Hybrid 2016: Declining Performance and Fuel Efficiency Possibly Linked to Intake Manifold Pressure Sensor

Hey! I can totally relate to your situation. Experienced something similar with my 2013 Lexus RX 450h not long ago. Mileage was high, about the same as yours, maybe a tad more. And yeah, had the same symptoms - the engine felt rough and that pep wasn't there anymore. The whole situation was a bummer. Turned out, it was indeed an issue with the Intake manifold pressure sensor wiring harness. It was open in my case and causing all these troubles. Mechanic told me it was quite serious only because the sensor acts like the engine's right-hand, helping it to use fuel efficiently and run smooth. Apparently, the engine leans on the data from this sensor to keep the air-fuel mixture at an optimal level, which is why I was feeling the lack of power and increased fuel consumption. So, when the sensor's input is missing or incorrect, the engine just cannot perform as it should, and the engine light can come up. My mechanic had to replace the faulty wiring harness, and after that, everything came back to normal. The engine ran smoothly, and fuel efficiency improved too. The entire experience surely wasn't a walk in the park, but at least the problem got sorted in the end. Hope this helps you out.

Hey there, appreciate the detailed response! Your experience sounds pretty identical to what I’m going through with my Lexus NX. I’m glad to hear you were able to get it all sorted out – gives me hope. Do you recall how much it set you back to get the faulty wiring harness replaced? Also, have you noticed any other related issues crop up since getting it fixed? Thanks again for the insights!

Hey no problem, glad to be of help! To answer your question, I recall it cost me around 95€ to get the wiring issue with the Intake manifold pressure sensor sorted out. Not exactly pocket change, but hey, it did the trick. Since getting that fixed, I have to say, the old engine's been running like a champ. It feels like I've got back the oomph, and my wallet's definitely happier with the decrease in fuel consumption. Good to know that the dodgy sensor was the culprit behind the troubles and not anything more serious, right? Haven't had any other related issues cropping up since then. Alright, hope that answers your question and eases your worries a bit. Good luck with your Lexus NX! Don't hesitate to ask if you've got any other questions.

Hey, thanks so much for sharing that info. It really does put my mind at ease a bit. The cost doesn't seem too bad considering it sorts the issue. I'll be sure to head out to my mechanic and get him to check out the Intake manifold pressure sensor. Crossing my fingers that it’s just the wiring and not anything major. I’ll keep you all updated on how things progress. I love this machine too much to see it having a hard time. You've been a great help! Cheers!