Seeking Advice for 2013 Lexus IS Diesel Issues: Black Smoke, Stalling Engine, and Starting Difficulties

Hey there, I've seen a similar issue on my 2012 Lexus IS Diesel. I would describe my car knowledge as having some experience, so here's my two cents. Turns out in my case, it was indeed the fuel filter heater causing trouble. The problem was specifically with the wiring harness/connector. It was damaged and needed replacement. Luckily, my mechanic is a gem. He checked the whole system, identified the culprit, and replaced the faulty part. It set me back somewhere around 110€, but hey, it did the trick. No more black smoke or stubbornly lit check engine light and it starts up just fine, regardless of the weather. That's been my experience, and it might well be the same issue for you. To give more robust advice, though, I'd need to hear more about your vehicle. Have you noticed other symptoms since these issues popped up? Mileage, maintenance history, stuff like that can be useful as well. It could help sharpen my response for you. Hope this helps a bit!

Hey! So, my Lexus IS has racked up a whopping 38,910 KM on the engine. The latest service was fairly recent and all was good then. There don't appear to be any other symptoms apart from what I've already described. I'm starting to think this problem could be more uncommon than I first believed. Going off what you said about the fuel filter heater, my gut tells me that could be the exact problem. Especially since the symptoms you described are uncannily similar to what I'm experiencing. I appreciate the advice! I think I'll have my mechanic take a look at the wiring harness/connector as well as the fuel filter heater. Thanks for providing a ballpark on what this fix might cost, I'm keeping my fingers crossed it won't be too much of an ouch factor to my wallet. I'll update you once I know more! Cheers!

Hey back, Good, that you had the service recently because that will eliminate quite a few potential issues. I totally get it these car problems can be a real pain, especially when you think it's something uncommon. Absolutely, have your mechanic inspect both the fuel filter heater and the wiring harness/connector. It's crucial they thoroughly check both indeed, in my experience these parts are usually the first ones to give a hard time. And sometimes, that doesn't even come up until we prod a bit more beyond the surface. Let's hope that the issue is similar to what I encountered—and resolved—because at least then you're not looking at a huge bill. If it does turn out to be the same, at least you'll have an idea of the possible cost, and if you're lucky it might even be less. But let's not jinx it now! Keeping my fingers crossed for you. Do let me know how it goes. Take it easy and safe driving until then!

Hi again, Yeah car troubles always seem to come at the worst times, don't they? But I'm glad you suggested checking the fuel filter heater and the wiring harness/connector. After our conversation, I'm pretty confident we're on the right track here. I really hope it's the same issue you had and nothing more complex. And you're right, fingers crossed. Let's not jinx it now! Oh, I'll definitely update you once my mechanic has had a look. Appreciate all the help and fingers crossed it wouldn't hit my wallet hard. Until then, keep safe and drive smooth! Cheers!