2018 RX 350 F-Sport rough idle and occasional stall at stop lights

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Melissa G. · rep 0 · May 22, 4:42 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

My 2018 Lexus RX 350 F-Sport, with about 75k miles, has recently started acting up. When I'm at a stop light or in heavy traffic, the engine idles really rough, almost like it's going to stall. Sometimes it actually does stall, which is pretty scary.

I haven't noticed any check engine light yet, but the vibration is definitely noticeable through the steering wheel and seat. It seems to happen more often when the engine is fully warmed up.

Has anyone else experienced this with their RX 350? What could be causing this? I'm worried about driving it like this.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode guidance (Lexus · Engine & drivetrain)

Summary: For 2018 RX 350 F-Sport rough idle and occasional stall at stop lights, work through these steps on your 2016+ vehicle:

  1. Confirm the symptom — note when it happens (cold start, highway, after fuel fill, etc.).
  2. Scan codes — save all pending/stored DTCs; don't clear until you've recorded them.
  3. Check TSBs & recalls — look up your VIN for open campaigns and known fixes.
  4. Inspect the obvious — related fuses, connectors, fluid level, and recent repairs.
  5. Test the common fix — follow model-specific service procedures; one change at a time.
  6. Escalate if needed — burning smell, no brakes, overheating, or stalling in traffic → shop visit.

Owner reported: My 2018 Lexus RX 350 F-Sport, with about 75k miles, has recently started acting up. When I'm at a stop light or in heavy traffic, the engine idles really rough, almost like it's going to stall. Sometimes it actually does stall, which is pretty scary.

I haven't noticed any check engine light yet, but the vibration is definitely noticeable through the steering wheel and seat. It seems to happen mor…

This is educational guidance, not a substitute for hands-on diagnosis.