Vehicle: 2012 Lexus IS 250, RWD, V6-2.5L (4GR-FSE), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle

Mileage: 139,007

Problem: This vehicle was running well, but the malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) would occasionally come on. If the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) were cleared, after a few days, the MIL would come back on. The problem started happening more often, so the owner brought it to the shop.

Case Details: The technician connected a scan tool and found these DTCs:

• P0172 - System Too Rich (Bank 1)
• P0175 - System Too Rich (Bank 2)

Both fuel trims were -20% at idle but improved to nearly 0% when cruising. The tech checked for an open EVAP purge valve allowing fuel vapor into the manifold. It was sealed shut.

The technician made a quick call to ALLDATA Tech-Assist for some diagnostic advice. The Tech-Assist consultant recommended checking the fuel pressure and the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor to be sure they were in normal range since both engine banks were experiencing the rich condition.

He also advised testing the crankcase for a vacuum leak. The vacuum should be around 17-20 in. Hg. NOTE: Not only will a failed PCV valve pull a large amount of oil and crankcase vapor into the motor it can also cause a vacuum leak.

Confirmed Repair: The technician attached a vacuum gauge to the dipstick tube and found only 10 in. Hg. at idle. He replaced the PCV valve and cleared the DTC. Fixed!