Seeking Advice on '09 Lexus LX Diesel Blowing Black Smoke with Reduced Power and Increased Fuel Consumption

Hey! I remember having a similar drama with my '09 Lexus LX Diesel. Now, I'm not exactly a mechanic or anything, just got some experience from dealing with my own used cars. Turns out it was a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) clog. Those symptoms you're experiencing, especially the black smoke and the drop in power, are pretty typical of a clogged DPF. I took my ride to a local workshop I trust. Theyaged to diagnose the issue and gave me the bad news - had to have the DPF replaced. Total damage was about 1325€. Not the cheapest fix, but once its sorted, you could tell the difference. Before I make further suggestions, could you perhaps share a bit more info about your ride? Any recent repairs or modifications, any error codes? The more details, the better. Hope this helps a bit! Cheers!

Hey there, I do appreciate your input. The info about the DPF clog gives me something to think about. She's had a rough couple of years with no recent repairs, and no mods at all - I prefer to keep her as original as I can. As for error codes, all I've got is a P0238, which seems to be something about the turbocharger. She's been through plenty though, with a mileage of 186704 KM on the clock. The last service was about six months ago, routine stuff, nothing major. Could the mileage or the time from the last service be a reason for these issues? Thanks again for your advice. Cheers!

G'day again, Ah, P0238. That's indeed related to the turbocharger - basically, it's telling us there's too much boost pressure. This ties in quite well with your suspicion of a boost pressure sensor defect. No guarantees, of course, but it's a fair bit of circumstantial evidence! The mileage you've clocked up and the time from the last service could play a role. But mostly, I reckon, those existing issues have just decided to start showing symptoms around now. In any case, I'd suggest getting the boost pressure sensor examined as a first step. In my case, a new sensor sorted the error code, but the clogged DPF was causing the smoke and performance loss - so ended up having to replace that anyway. Again, I'm no ace mechanic - just relating what I know from past experiences. Always best to get it checked out professionally. Best of luck with your LX keep me posted! Cheers!

Hey again, Makes sense. Appreciate all your input and the advice for checking out the boost pressure sensor and the DPF. I guess it's time for a professional diagnosis before things go south. Will definitely keep all you've told me in mind when I visit the local workshop next - hopefully, they'll have the answers. Thanks for taking the time to share your experiences, it's been really helpful. Will sure keep you posted once I've got the LX sorted. Take care. Cheers!