Persistent Check Engine Light and Power Loss in '05 Lexus IS Diesel

Hey there! I totally get that, these car issues are just the worst. Last time I had something similar on my '06 Lexus IS. The annoying check engine light was my not-so-pleasant companion for a while. After much dilly-dallying, I gave in and went to my local garage. Turns out, my car was having trouble with the ignition coil. It was causing the engine to misfire, and that's what led to the drop in power and hard starting. The mechanic explained that consequential errors from other error memory entries can sometimes throw you off track, making it seem like the issue is unrelated. In my case, there were mentions of cylinder pressure fluctuations in the error memory as well, caused by the misfiring. Just remember, while it seems complicated, mechanics do this day in, day out, and they'd be able to pin-point and fix the cause. It was a serious issue indeed, but they got it fixed before it could cause further damage. By the time they were done, it was running as smooth as a brand new car. So, while it can be a little anxiety-inducing, it's better to get those troubles checked out by a professional. Best of luck with your car!

Hey, appreciate the shared experience! Seems like our cars pulled a similar stunt, and your mechanic's explanation makes perfect sense. I'm starting to think an ignition coil failure might be the culprit with my IS as well. Would you happen to remember roughly what you ended up paying to get this sorted? And have you come across any further issues related to this since it was fixed? Once bitten twice shy, as they say. Thanks!

Hey, no problem at all! Always happy to help out a fellow Lexus owner. When I finally bit the bullet and took my GS in, I'll admit, I was bracing for some hefty bills. I mean, anything linked to the engine can make your wallet feel quite faint. But you wouldn't believe it, fixing those ensuing errors from the other malfunction entries didn't set me back a single penny. Yep, you read that right: a grand total of 0€! I guess sometimes you just catch a lucky break, right? And remember that rogue cylinder pressure fluctuation I mentioned? Painless post-check, since the mechanic got it sorted along the ride. Smooth sailing ever since - not a hint of trouble. It's like a rebirth for the old girl, runs like a dream now. Guess the lesson here is not to put off a trip to the mechanic. Your ride might just bounce back better than ever. Hope this helps with your worries, and best of luck with your IS!

Brilliant! It's reassuring to hear about your experience, and not going to lie, I'm feeling a whole lot better about the situation. Sounds like you really lucked out on those costs, engagement ring for the missus isn't going to pay for itself, haha! Most importantly, it's great that your Lexus is back in shape, gives me a lot of hope. Maybe it's time I get over my past experiences and give the pros a chance. I'm increasingly certain it is indeed the ignition coil, and your story gives me the confidence to face the potential cost and inconvenience head-on. Appreciate your advice! Going to take my '03 Lexus IS to a mechanic this week and fingers crossed, it may run like it's brand new again! Thanks for lending an ear (or an eye, in this case). Cheers!