Limping Lexus

My Lexus IS220d (57-plate, 36,000 miles) has a warning light: VSC check engine, EML indicator and ABS warning. It goes into limp mode to protect the engine.

I have taken it to a Lexus dealer who has cleared the code but said it appears the engine is getting coked up and that they will need it for a week to take the engine out and strip it down.

To their credit they have offered to do this free of charge and provide a courtesy car. This all seems a bit drastic to me. Is this a known problem that is being kept quiet or just one of those things? Checking the internet forums this seems to happen fairly often. Any thoughts?

Asked on 10 June 2011 by florence1

Answered by Honest John

Possibly a gummed up EGR and that could be cause by the quality of diesel you are using and by driving the car short distances from cold starts.

Tags: technical issues diesels egr valves owning

Similar questions

Should I change my car?

I have a Sept 2007 Mazda 6 2.0 diesel, which has been totally reliable and trouble free for 3.5 years. I have read your advice that diesels start costing money in years 4-6. What is likely to need doing...

How is the EGR valve activated in my Renault Kangoo?

My 1.9 2003 Renault Kangoo diesel hesitates at idle speed and produces excessive smoke. I removed the EGR plug and its now working fine. Which sensor gives info to EGR and computer?

Corolla loss of power - could turbo be the issue.

The engine malfunction light came on and there was immediate loss of power (no revs when pressing the accelerator). It was diagnosed as the EGR valve. It was cleaned up and was then fine for about 3 months....

Related models

Lexus IS (2005 - 2013)

Very well built. Top quality interior. Lexus dealers are best in the business. Impressive refinement. All engines chain cam. IS250 probably the most reliable car you can buy.