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About Ted Ritter
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
I will be able to answer almost all questions relating to the Toyota product line, if I don`t have the answer right away I will use the resources available to me to get an answer for you, it`s that simple. Warranty,special service campaigns,service bulletins etc,or just how to diagnose and repair problems, just ask.

Experience
Toyota technician since 1979,expert in electrical systems,OBD systems,engine repair, driveability problems,EFI systems,ASE certified,Toyota master technician.
Certified Hybrid Vehicle technician.

You are here: Experts > Home/Garden > Auto Repair > Toyota Repair

Questions Answered By Expert Ted Ritter
In Category Toyota Repair

Subject	Date Asked

Tercel Rod Bearing	10/6/2008
Q: Ted I have a 106,000 miles 1.5 motor automatic Tercel. The car is nice but I have a knock in the ... A: The tercel engine does not have the different bearing thicknesses as far as I know, clean the bottom ...
vm1220@knology.net	10/5/2008
Q: I have a 1998 Camry 4 cylinder with about 135,000 miles. I am as of late running into some ... A: The master cylinder could be the cause of a low brake pedal unless there is a fluid leak at one of ...
94 4runner tranny	10/4/2008
Q: i have a 94 toyota 4runner with the 3.0 v6, and automatic tranny. lately it has not been starting ... A: The transmission shop is probably correct, in most cases the solenoids fail because of a restriction ...
2002 Toyota avalon	10/2/2008
Q: I was reading another Q and A about another Avalon owner having a similar problem that I am having. ... A: Strut failure normally doesn't cause a vibration so I don't think this is the problem, vibrations ...
1993 toyota 4 runner 3.0	10/1/2008
Q: Had the head gasket replaced not new head was ground and did a valve job at the same time the car is ... A: I would recommend having the engine compression tested anyway, by the way, were the spark plug wires ...
Codes	9/30/2008
Q: My friendly autozone identified these codes from my check engine light. P0340, P0441, and P0446. I ... A: The p0340 code is a camshaft position sensor malfunction, I would need to know if it's a 4cylinder ...
150k maintenance	9/30/2008
Q: I have a 1994 Toyota Camry about to turn 150k. I've done well keeping up with regular care, oil ... A: It may need the timing belt replaced as well as the water pump and any oil seals that may be leaking ...
door mirrors	9/29/2008
Q: I have a '05 Sequoia and I'm having problems with the operation of the door mirrors. Sometimes they ... A: Do you know if it has the "driving memory" for the mirrors feature, if not then the most likely ...
Toyota celica Gt	9/29/2008
Q: I have been having problems with my heating on my 1989 celica gt it will start out with heat but ... A: Whic control cable was replaced, the one for the heater valve or one for the air doors inside under ...
check engine light came on	9/28/2008
Q: I have a 2004 toyota corolla, recently the check engine light came on while i was driving. What do ... A: The check engine light will stay on until it's reset by either removing the EFI fuse under the hood ...
EFI Fuse	9/28/2008
Q: I have a 1993 toyota pickup and i keep blowing the EFI fuse and i have trouble shout from the ECM ... A: It's unlikely that the ECM will cause the fuse to blow, if it drew mare than 15A current the ECM ...
Automatic Transmission Problem	9/28/2008
Q: Ted, MY VEHICLE is a 1990 Toyota 4WD Deluxe Pickup, with a 3VZ-E engine, and an Automatic ... A: A solenoid or other electrical malfunction would cause the O/D indicaor light to flash but even if ...
Toyota Transmission	9/27/2008
Q: How many quarts of automatic transmission fluid does the 2005 Toyota Sequoia automatic transmission ... A: The total capacity of the dry transmission is 5.3 qts, drain and refill requires about 1.5qts., keep ...
1990 toyota 4cyl 4x4	9/26/2008
Q: My truck is not starting.I turn the key to start it and it turns over but it seems like there's no ... A: If the engine sounds like it has no compression and spins real fast then there may be a problem with ...
spark plugs	9/25/2008
Q: Hey, I recently bought a 89 4runner w/a 3.0L v6 5sp. I went to check the spark plugs and the first ... A: Possibly the threads are stripped, this can be caused by carbon that has build up on the bottom of ...
1991 3.0 v-6 runs rough	9/25/2008
Q: The motor runs poorly as if it has dropped a cylinder or 2 and the power is gone from the motor. I ... A: The knock sensor would not affect driveability too much and it would not be the cause of an engine ...
1993 Toyota Previa Battery Terminal reversal	9/24/2008
Q: I have a 93 previa. I was mistakenly given a battery by Autozone with NON reversed polarity and ... A: Check the 20A AM2 fuse in the box under the hood,if it's blown it will not supply voltage to the ...
Getting ripped off? on clutch repair????	9/24/2008
Q: 1999 Toyota Solara V6 5 speed (4+OD) manuel and being 2 makes via dealer info this is the North ... A: $800 sounds very resonable for parts and labor, 6.5hr labor is less than the dealers chargers in CA. ...
2000 Camry inspection	9/24/2008
Q: I'm no car expert, so I need help. I just purchased a 2000 Toyota Camry LE from a private owner, ... A: I would recommend having the toyota dealer do this inspection, just ask for a prospective buyer's ...
Heater Problems	9/23/2008
Q: I have a 95' Toyota Tercel. Recently i was driving with the heat on, and stopped to get a soda, ... A: It's more likely that there is a problem with the heater blower motor, check it's operation by ...
2002 tacoma valve adjustment shims/2.7ltr	9/23/2008
Q: is there a shim kit available for purchase somewhere? i have 75,000 miles and would like to adjust ... A: I don't know of any shim kits that are available, the shims are only available individually from the ...
Won't start after dead battery	9/21/2008
Q: Our 2002 Camry does not restart after sitting for a month. Even a jump does not start it. I ... A: It's very likely that the battery was jumped backwards which is what normally happens when this ...
key lock on driver door	9/21/2008
Q: I locked my keys in the car and someone tried to use a slim jim to unlock it,now the key will not ... A: Sometimes when this method is used to unlock the door a linkage rod on the door lock to the door ...
1993 Toyota Celica GT (Conv-5SFE) -- VSV	9/21/2008
Q: I am replacing the starter I burned out. But how I burned out the starter is my question. Upon ... A: This engine has a few VSVs so I din't know which one it may be but in any case it's probably not the ...
2003 Tacoma will not start, won't ever turn over	9/21/2008
Q: my son's 2003 Tacoma will not start, the engine starter will not engage or turn. We pulled the ... A: Test the starter while it's installed, with the ign key off, the transmission in park or neutral and ...
2001 Toyota tundra	9/20/2008
Q: I have a 2001 Tundra V8 with 104,000 miles and over the past 6 months when I'm driving around the ... A: Transmission problems on the early nodel tundras are common, is the check engine light on? In most ...
transmission	9/20/2008
Q: i have a 94 4runner 4wd autamatic tranmission its always slipped but now it dose not go into gear ... A: Check the fluid level, if the fluid level is ok then there may be a serious problem with the ...
clutch out in 1 day	9/18/2008
Q: Toyota Solara 99 V6 @150,000 miles Clutch started to go out...pedal wouldnt come back up ... A: The worst case is that both of the hydraulic clutch cylinders need to be replaced, the clutch master ...
Replace clutch with rear main seal?	9/18/2008
Q: I have a 1989 Toyota Supra, manual transmission, non-turbo that has approx 80,000 miles (never ... A: The clutch can be inspected after the transmission is removed, if any oil got on to the clutch disc ...
#1 Cyl and Repair Manual Recommendation	9/17/2008
Q: I have two questions about my 1995 Camry 4 cyl whose VIN starts with the letter J. First, is the ... A: The number one cylinder is at the front of the engine behind the timing belt(passenger side), as far ...
1FZ-FE engine	9/16/2008
Q: I have a 94 land cruiser with a distinct knock. I can drive the vehicle but I am worried that if I ... A: You are absolutely correct, it can lead to bigger problems, engine knocking noises are never good ...
1994 Toyota Corolla	9/16/2008
Q: About a year ago, I began having sporadic problems with getting the car to start. When I turned ... A: That's a very detailed and concise description of a problem,I'm impressed, unlike some questions I ...
VSC Light	9/16/2008
Q: The VSC off & VSC light have been coming on for 50 k miles. At 36 k dealer said no problem. At 95 K ... A: The steering angle sensor has to be recalibrated after replacement using the techstream scantool, I ...
RE: 2002 Toyota Camry V6 Struts	9/15/2008
Q: 2002 Camry V6 with 126,000 miles on it. Performed 120,000 mile scheduled maintenance at local ... A: That seems like it's way too much, there is a method to check the struts, check to see if they are ...
94 Toyota Camry suddenly downshifts	9/14/2008
Q: I have a 94 Toyota Camry automatic V6 with about 170K miles. A few months ago, I noticed that at ... A: The MAF, AIT sensor codes are not related to transmission issues, if the O/D light is flashing the ...
replacing brake light switch	9/14/2008
Q: My 2004 Camry occasionally will not come out of park. reading your previous answers I think I need ... A: The switch is located under the dash near the brake pedal lever on a bracket, removing the left ...
1985 Toyota PU, 4 cyl Idle problem	9/13/2008
Q: All of a sudden my Toyota will not idle when warm. It sounds like it is getting to much gas at idle ... A: Check for an intake manifold gasket leak or a carburetor base gasket leak, spray the areas around ...
97 corolla	9/13/2008
Q: New plugs wires cap roto button pcv air filter fuel filter air filter. Rated 27 city 34 highway. 61 ... A: A MAF malfunction would turn the check engine light on, I don't think that's the problem, I would ...
4Runner transmission	9/12/2008
Q: I have a 94 4Runner, v6, automatic transmission, 4 wheel drive with 171000 miles on it. The ... A: This is an indication of an internal clutch piston leak,probably the foreward clutch but in any case ...
12 volt ignition source	9/11/2008
Q: I have a 1999 Avalon XLS and have installed a hydrogen generator on this car and I would like to ... A: The small wire on the starter solenoid only has 12 volts when the key is in the start position. I ...
hard cold starting	9/11/2008
Q: I have a 1986 toyota pickup 2.4L, 2BBL, manual transmission. 270,000 body, 10,000 rebuilt motor, ... A: That may be the best solution, have you checked the choke plate to see if it closes when the engine ...
Throttle Position Sensor	9/11/2008
Q: I have a 1995 Camry 4 cyl engine. This is not a Calif engine as I am from Pennsylvania. I am ... A: The TPS is not the problem, it won't cause a misfire, intermittent or otherwise, sometimes cleaning ...
2000 LC VSC & Center Differential Lights	9/10/2008
Q: 2000 Land Cruiser---Two warnings lit up on the dashboard this evening: VSC OFF and the diagram for ... A: The center diff should not be locked unless there are extreme driving conditions such as mud,sand ...
2002 RAV4 ECU	9/10/2008
Q: I just got my right clutch replaced two weeks ago but when I was driving today my brakes felt like ... A: Without knowing the diagnostic trouble codes that are stored in the computer I can't be very ...
2000 Toyota Avalon	9/10/2008
Q: My 2000 Toyota Avalon has been in the shop for close to 1 year. Its undergoing repairs due to engine ... A: There should be no problem with the computer, it should just go to a sleep mode with the battery ...
engine overheating	9/8/2008
Q: i have a 1994 toyota paseo that is overheating, i have replaced the thermostat, flushed the ... A: First check to see that the electric cooling fan turns on when the engine gets to normal ...
Electrical ???	9/8/2008
Q: I have a 06 pre-runner with v6 eng. When I step on the brake the odometer light dims. Now the real ... A: Remove the tail light assemblies on both sides and remove the bulbs, carefully check that the ...
Suspension noise	9/8/2008
Q: Ted- I may not be able to describe this exactly but here goes. My 98 Landcruiser just started with a ... A: It's hard for me to say what this could be without inspecting the vehicle, it should be checked for ...
battery drain	9/8/2008
Q: I have a 96 camry le 4cyl with a battery drain. Took to dealer and they said alternator if fine.Also ... A: Check for a current draw, make sure all electrical accessories are turned of, all lights, radio, and ...
2000 Celica Security System	9/7/2008
Q: RE: 2000 Celica - 49k miles. The security system alarm goes off at random when the car is simply ... A: The sensitivity may have to be adjusted,Toyota did not offer a factory installed theft deterrent ...
05 Rav 4 Check Engine Light	9/7/2008
Q: I have a 2005 Rav 4 Automatic with a check engine light on and off for the past 6 months. There is ... A: This code is specific to the catalityc converter "catalist system performance below threshold" ...
Fuel pump wiring	9/7/2008
Q: I am replacing the fuel pump on a 92 toyota pickup and it is a in-tank pump. The new pump connector ... A: As long as the wires are properly insulated there is no problem with doing this, none of the exposed ...
91 toyota pu	9/6/2008
Q: 10 seconds after a clean start it is difficult to keep rpm sufficient to avoid stalling. First km ... A: Possibly just an engine misfire, check the spark plugs and the spark plug wires, if they look ...
Check Engine Light	9/6/2008
Q: Ted, I own a 2005 Toyota Corolla S with 43K. I recently got a check engine light. A Seattle area ... A: Your'e absolutely right in declining that recommendation, first of all the spark plugs are good for ...
battery drain	9/6/2008
Q: I have a 96 camry le 4cyl with a battery drain. Took to dealer and they said alternator if fine.Also ... A: What is the amperage draw on the electrical system, did they tell you how much current is being ...
sloshing water	9/6/2008
Q: I have noticed a sloshing sound coming from behind the dashboard (right in front of the driver) in ... A: This sounds like the A/C evaporator drain tube is clogged causing the water to remain inside the ...
2000 Toyota Avalon	9/6/2008
Q: My 2000 Toyota Avalon has been in the shop for close to 1 year. Its undergoing repairs due to engine ... A: There is no rerason for your car to be in the dealer, it is at the dealer , is this correct? Before ...
89 toyota truck 3.o	9/5/2008
Q: purchased truck 191000 mile had 4 burnt vales replaced with new vales complete head job (head ... A: I need to understand a couple of statements you made, are you saying that the temp is normal after ...
1998 landcruiser & premium fuel	9/5/2008
Q: My owners manual says "91 octane or higher fuel required".Does this vehicle have to run on 91 and ... A: Nothing will happen, I use 87 in my '07 FJ with no problems, it's been said that there may be a ...
98 Camry V6	9/5/2008
Q: I said in my previous email that the car was giving a code P0420 and after reading your previous ... A: If the cat monitor shows incomplete it will give a "PASS" this is not the case, the cat monitor must ...
98 Camry V6- Spark Plugs and Code 0420	9/4/2008
Q: Ted, I've seen your responses regarding the P0420 code and will look into having an aftermarket cat ... A: Replacing the spark plugs will not do anything for the PO420 code and in most cases replacing O2 ...
2002 Camry LE Battery Change = low idle	9/4/2008
Q: Ted, I changed the battery on my 2002 Camry LE 2.5, 5-speed last night. After changing the battery, ... A: You did nothing wrong, this happens sometimes when the power to the computer is interrupted, it ...
help me please!	9/3/2008
Q: I borrow my Mother in law's Car it is a 97 toyota 4runner special edition full loaded etc.... I ran ... A: I don't have any way of knowing what caused this to happen but I have someone else look at this to ...
a/f sensor won't come out 02 toyotasiennav6	9/3/2008
Q: Is there a special tool other than a special socket to remove the a/f sensor in the rear of the ... A: This happens frequently and there is no easy solution, if the sensor is stuck the exhaust manifold ...
Clutch hydraullic fluid repair	9/2/2008
Q: i have a 1988 Toyota Corolla which has leaked hydraulic fluid from somewhere in the clutch ... A: Since the fluid level in the reservoir is dropping there has to be a leak somewhere in the system, ...
'94 Corolla 2nd Speed sensor?	9/2/2008
Q: I found your information from a previous post helpful to a certain extent, but wished it went just a ... A: The most likely cause for this is the speed sensor that's mounted on the transmission, this is where ...
92 toyota	9/2/2008
Q: help v6 camery 3.0 overheated cranks will not start, replaced timming belt, water pump, tentioner ... A: When the engine overheated did it stop running? What was the reason for replacing the timing belt? ...
toyota 4runner transmission	9/1/2008
Q: Ted I have a 2006 Toyota 4runner, i noticed that it was leaking transmission fluid, after further ... A: This transmission has no dipstick, it's a "sealed" transmission which requires no service for the ...
check engine indicator light on	9/1/2008
Q: I have a 1999 Toyota Tercel with 97500 miles on it. The check engine indicator light came ... A: Check engine lights normally turn on because there is a problem with one of the input signals that ...
My 1992 previa	8/31/2008
Q: I just bought a 1992 previa w/ 140k miles on it. The idle is very low and will drop out completely ... A: Since the check engine light is already on and the computer has stored a trouble code I need to know ...
alt fuse	8/31/2008
Q: do you have a diagram of or instructions for alt fuse installation A: There is no easy way to unbolt this fuse, on some models the fuse is in a smaller holder which can ...
2006 Tundra Crew Cab 4wd SR5 50K miles	8/31/2008
Q: Its an automatic with factory alarm,no remote start but keyless entry. the alarm just started going ... A: This is a little too involved for me to try to help with, it seems there is an electrical problem ...
Check Engine Light - Too Lean Condition?	8/31/2008
Q: On my '99 Tacoma (2WD - V6 - 70K miles), I recently had a "Check Engine" light on the dash come on. ... A: Yes the MAF sensor is usually the problem when there is a lean code(PO171) it can be cleaned using ...
replacement fuel gauge	8/30/2008
Q: My husband & I moved to Managua, Nicaragua 4 months ago to serve as missionaries. We bought a 1999 ... A: What you probably need is the fuel sending gauge which is located inside the gas tank, the diesel ...
92 Camry 2.2L - Apparent Timing Problem	8/29/2008
Q: 165k miles on car...supposedly 50k on engine installed Dec 2006. 3/2008, sudden onset of hesitation, ... A: This does seem like the engine cam timing is off, to check it just remove the top part of the timing ...
Door locks and key less entry 2002 Toy Sienna	8/29/2008
Q: I have a 2002 Toyota Sienna Van. Whenever the key is in the ignition and the front passenger door ... A: Yes it will cause the keyless remote not to work. Is there another aftermarket alarm on this van, ...
Fixing Driver Side rear View Mirror....	8/29/2008
Q: I have a 1998 Toyota Camry 4 Cylinder, just cracked it while reversing my car.However used stick ... A: If it's a non-power mirror just pull of the triangular cover on the inside and remove the three ...
toyota transmission	8/29/2008
Q: In reference to your question on the 92 celica auto trans issue with third gear only unless manually ... A: I don't remember the details of that question but I'll try to answer yours. The ECM gets the engine ...
ECU or ECM on a 2003 Toyota Sienna	8/28/2008
Q: We have a 2003 Toyota Sienna and we just failed our emissions test - our check engine light was on. ... A: I find it a little hard to believe that there is a problem with the ECM. It's located behind the ...
2007 Toyota Camry	8/28/2008
Q: I have a 2007 Toyota Camry XLE, V6 with about 70K miles. It recently began rough idle and fuel ... A: With all of this going on there should be a check engine light on, if this is the case the cause ...
'03 Tacoma code P0031	8/27/2008
Q: Where is the H02S Bank 1 Sen 1 Heater circuit low? ANSWER: This sensor is located just in front of ... A: Yes, that's about right,I would recommend using an OEM form the toyota dealer, beware of some of the ...
Toyota carolla ABS?	8/27/2008
Q: I have a 2004 Toyota corolla S w/out ABS. My wife crashes it every winter in the snow. Can I add ABS ... A: Not practical and here is why: The whole brake system would have to be replaced including all the ...
low oil pressure	8/25/2008
Q: i have a toyota avalon 2000 conquest. its 1,73,000 km. i have recently have done a major service on ... A: You will need to contasct a toyota dealer, there have been some known issues causing sludge in the ...
Short in door wiring loom	8/24/2008
Q: '91 Camry (3s). The "overly complicated" automatic seatbelt for the driver started to stop at ... A: I would remove the door panel and identify the wires by their color coding first, then remove the ...
Turn signal and high beam not working.	8/24/2008
Q: The dashboard turn signal, emergency and high beam lights does not work in my '00 camry. All fuses ... A: I can give you that information but there is one thing you mentioned that makes me think that the ...
Smoke on start up	8/24/2008
Q: I have a 2002 camry XLE V6 with 80K miles. It has started blowing white smoke on start up, nomally ... A: White smoke is not caused by oil burning, it's caused by either coolant or water, some white ...
85 Toyota 4x4 front axle seals	8/23/2008
Q: , I have an 85 Toyota 4x4 with 195,000 miles that I bought new and have a question about the front ... A: If they have replaced all the seals including the one that goes inside in the axle tube then I'm not ...
85 Toyota 4x4 front axle seals	8/22/2008
Q: , I have an 85 Toyota 4x4 with 195,000 miles that I bought new and have a question about the front ... A: The grease should not be leaking on to the tires. By inner seal replacement do you mean the knuckles ...
Check Engine light	8/22/2008
Q: Two months ago this came on, along with the battery light. i got a new alternator, battery is ok. ... A: Fluid levels have nothing to do with this, depending on the year model check engine lights are ...
ABS Light on after clutch replacement 94 toyota celica	8/21/2008
Q: I took my 1994 Toyota Celica in to have the clutch replaced and when I picked it up and drove away ... A: Yes, it's something they did, the light wasn't on before, right? They're either ignorant or lying to ...
90 4Runner 3.0 hot/cold engine issues	8/21/2008
Q: 1990 4Runner 3.0 5spd 125k miles. No CE light. During the summer (warm weather 80+), after I have ... A: Make sure that there are no air intake leaks between the throttle body and the air filter, these ...
2006 sequoia	8/21/2008
Q: Intermittent problem whereby all dash warning lights except engine light flash at different ... A: Since the dealer spend hours trying to figure this out when they had the vehicle in their possession ...
4runner gas	8/21/2008
Q: What kind of octane fuel would you put in a 99 toyota 4runner SR5? I want to buy one but won't if ... A: 87 octane works just fine, premium is not required, I use 87 in my '07 FJ cruiser with no problems, ...
1985 toyota pickup	8/20/2008
Q: I have a 1985 toyota pickup 2.4 FI 4x4. When AC is turned on there is power to the dash but there is ... A: There is only a high pressure side switch located in the evaporatir housing which is almost never ...
a/c freon refill	8/20/2008
Q: how to refill the a/c freon on a sienna 2001 le A: The factory recommended way is to remove all the freon from the system and then filling it with the ...
'99 Avalon MIL with Codes P0125 and Pending P1133	8/19/2008
Q: I hope all is well. I've got an '99 with 19K miles (Mothers car not driven much) with a MIL on. ... A: This is a common trouble code on these models, the solution is to replace the a/f sensor, B1S1 is ...
02 sensor warning	8/19/2008
Q: Ted, I have a 1990, V6, Toyota extra-cab pickup, w/5 speed & original clutch. It has about 245k ... A: This O2 sensor is located in the exhaust pipe just in front of the catalityc converter, the fuel ...
1999 toyota solara	8/19/2008
Q: I had a thread going about my sle v6 solara, told me too many follow ups. I haven't had the car for ... A: Check the coil resistances, remove the three coils and measure the resistances across the electrical ...
Sienna catalytic converter question	8/19/2008
Q: A co-worker is looking to sell his 1998 Sienna. It has 86,000 mi. of hauling tools and equipment in ... A: Yes there is a difference between the CA emission model and the federal emission model, you should ...
Burnt smell	8/18/2008
Q: I have a 2003 Corolla. For about 3 months I have been smelling a burnt smell like plastic. I have ... A: The reason the smaeel goes away when not using the a/c is that air from the outside stops coming ...
1993 toyota speedometer doesn't work	8/17/2008
Q: 1993 toyota 4x4 w/3.0L and auto tranny. Speedometer and odometer quit working. Replaced speed sensor ... A: Unless there is a wiring problem between the sensor and the speedometer I would say that the ...
Replaced catalytic converter gives worse gas milage	8/17/2008
Q: Sir: I have a 1997 Toyoto Tacoma. My check engine light came on and the local Toyota computer ... A: Without knowing the original diagnostic trouble codes I have no way of knowing if that was the ...
Location of relay	8/16/2008
Q: I have a 1998 Toyota Camry with a faulty tail light and backup light relay. The lights(back up, ... A: The relay is located in the trunk on the left side inner fender area, remove the side carpeting, the ...
2000 4x4 tacoma	8/16/2008
Q: I have a 2000 Tacoma Reg. Cab 2.7 4WD that I purchased used and now has 132K miles. It has always ... A: Check the shifter bushings in the shift tower, they tend to wear and cause shifting problems, remove ...
corolla inhibotor switch	8/15/2008
Q: I have got to fit an inhibitor switch( gear seletor switch) to 2000my corolla. Chassis no ... A: I think what you are referring to is what we call the neutral start switch, it's mounted to the ...
1999 toyota solara	8/14/2008
Q: I had a thread going about my sle v6 solara, told me too many follow ups. I haven't had the car for ... A: I don't htink you talked to me before, at least I didn't tell you that you had too many follow ups, ...
95 Camry 4 cyl main drive pulley	8/14/2008
Q: I have tried everything to remove the main pulley(harmonic balancer) on my 95 Camry. I cannot get it ... A: The pulley has to be held stationary somehow, other than using and air wrench, this is about the ...
Alternating 0125 & 1130 Codes	8/13/2008
Q: I get these codes coming up. I can check it one time and get 0125, clear it and within 2/3 Miles the ... A: The P1130 code indicates a failure of the A/F sensor bank one sensor one, it's located in the ...
High NOx	8/13/2008
Q: I have a 94 NA MR2 (5SFE) that ran very high on the NOx. I had the EGR Temp sensor disabled for the ... A: Your'e correct the egr temp sensor has no control over the egr system, it just records the egr gas ...
High NOx	8/13/2008
Q: I have a 94 NA MR2 (5SFE) that ran very high on the NOx. I had the EGR Temp sensor disabled for the ... A: There are two things that can be done at this time, unless already tried replace the gas temp sensor ...
1984 FJ60 Emissions?	8/12/2008
Q: I have a 1984 FJ60 that is all stock, with 135000k miles. I bought it new and do all the work on it ... A: I doubt if there is an intake manifold leak since this would also cause a rough idle, since the ...
1991 toyota camry will not engage reverse (grinding) very bad	8/12/2008
Q: The engine run great and will start in park and in neutral. I can shift in all gears except ... A: This car uses a shifter cable that is attached to the shifter inside the center console and to the ...
1995 Celica AC	8/11/2008
Q: I have a 95 toyota celica and whenever I turn on the air conditioning the car bogs down to the point ... A: If there is a hose that is disconnected there may be a vacuum leak which can cause driveability ...
1995 Tacoma Timing Belt Change	8/11/2008
Q: This truck was our youngest sons 1st ride after he was married...I'me keeping it. It has 141K and ... A: There is no reason to replace the sprockets unless you mean the belt tensioner and the idler pulley ...
Toyota Camrey 1994	8/11/2008
Q: Oil light is on all the time. We replaced oil pressure sensor. We replaced valve cover gasket. ... A: The oil pressure should be checked with a mechanical pressure gauge to make sure that it's not a ...
1997 Lexus ES300 Code 1705	8/11/2008
Q: My car was hesitating when driving in reverse, off and on for months like it just didn't want to go. ... A: This code indicates a problem with the direct clutch speed sensor NC2, according to the repair ...
4RUNNER	8/11/2008
Q: Hey Ted, I just purchased a 2002 4runner from my company that was a salesman's company vehicle. It ... A: Whatever problems may develop depend on how it was maintained in the past, you could ask a toyota ...
1999 toyota solara sputter	8/10/2008
Q: I have a 1999 toyota camry solara I just got a few months ago and shortly after purchasing the I ... A: the toyota scantool is different and more advanced than just about anything else but the autozone ...
Toyota timing belt	8/10/2008
Q: A timing belt was replaced on the 1994 Toyota Camry. It starts and runs bur lacks the zip and ... A: It's very possible that the timing belt is off, if it's a 4cylinder remove the upper timing cover so ...
Immobilizer System	8/9/2008
Q: I am working on 2007 TOYOTA FORTUNER (Model: TGN51-EKPSKV, Engine:2TR-FE). It’s equipped with engine ... A: I'm not familiar with that tester but I will try to help as much as I can. After logging on to TIS, ...
1998 Toyota Sienna Van P0125 error	8/9/2008
Q: I have a 1998 Toyota Sienna van. I have replaced ALL the sensors. The computer codeswere errased. ... A: The O2 sensors are recording a too lean condition on one or both of the cylinder banks, since you ...
Differential clank	8/7/2008
Q: Ted, I have a 1985 Toyota pickup. It has a 146,000 miles and is two-wheel drive with a four speed ... A: Check the driveshaft to see if it has a slip joint at either the front or the rear, if it has there ...
1990 toyota celica Gt water pump	8/6/2008
Q: how do you change the water pump? What is a reasonable cost for a mechanic to change the water pump ... A: The water pump is driven by the timing belt and it's common for both of them to need replacement, ...
code P0773	8/5/2008
Q: I have a 2000 Camry V6 with about 161,000 miles on it. It has a code of P0773 and the transmission ... A: This code indicates a lock-up torque converter clutch malfunction or the solenoid controlling the ...
95 camry	8/5/2008
Q: Where do I check the code for the check engine light and how do I find a list of the codes.Thanks ... A: The #71code indicates an EGR system malfunction, in most cases the egr(exhaust gas ...
1999 toyota solara sputter	8/5/2008
Q: I have a 1999 toyota camry solara I just got a few months ago and shortly after purchasing the I ... A: Most engine/trasmission problems on this model would turn the check engine light on so I'm a little ...
1995 toyota camry LE	8/5/2008
Q: my camry has a rear main seal oil leak, and someone told me about this Bar's rear main seal oil ... A: They're right it is a temporary fix and maybe not a fix at all, the reality is that once a seal is ...
Camry misfire	8/4/2008
Q: I got a 1998 TOYOTA Camry LE V6 W/170K Miles The problem is that in the auto shop they can’t correct ... A: The ECM is the least likely cause for this, all the cylinders on bank one indicate a misfire, the ...
"R" for reverse indicator comes on when I press brake	8/3/2008
Q: 2001 Camry - the bulb out indicator came on a few days ago. Also, when I press the brake, the "R" ... A: Check all the bulbs in the rear, make sure the bulbs are not mixed up, some have two contacts, some ...
2006 Avalon VSC light	8/3/2008
Q: I have a 2006 Avalon and only my VCS light has come on, but at the same time the Cruise Control ... A: The cruise control shuts off when there is a problem with the abs, trac/vsc system, so that needs to ...
rod berring	8/3/2008
Q: I have a 96 toyota camry. Oil light been on for a while, Car is knocking. Sounfs like a rod ... A: If the rod is making noise then the crankshaft is probably gone as well, the oil pan can be removed ...
Rear Brakes Toyota Sienna	8/2/2008
Q: I have received an estimate in the area of about 5-6 hundred dollars to replace my rear brakes, ... A: I would go somewhere else, preferably a toyota dealer and get another estimate, toyota calipers very ...
98 Camry 2.2L 4 Cyl 100000 miles	8/2/2008
Q: I was recently driving my camry and doing nothing unusual when the AC fan stop blowing on the level ... A: There is a resistor that controls the fan speeds based on what setting the control is set on, this ...
Glove box removal	8/2/2008
Q: I would like to change the air conditioner (in cabin) filter so the gove box needs to be removed but ... A: You didn't say what year model it is but in most cases there is what looks like a small shock ...
Toyota transmission	8/1/2008
Q: I have a 1991 toyota pu, 22re, 5 speed manual trans., 250k miles. Keeps popping out of 3rd gear. ... A: Sometimes popping out of gear is due to worn shifter bushings in the shift tower, remove the inside ...
Toyota Power Window Passenger Side problem	7/31/2008
Q: My daughters 1994 Toyota Camry has a power window problem on the passenger side. It has sporadically ... A: There are two known problems, the window motor and the window regulator, remove the door panel for ...
1987 Camry A/C	7/31/2008
Q: The a/c is cold, but the button's a/c light starts blinking after about 5 seconds when pushed. The ... A: The compressor has a revolution sensor on it, they used to fail on a regular basis back then, the ...
96 rav4 ignition switch removal	7/31/2008
Q: MY 96 rav4 ignition keywill turn only to the acc position. It goes no further, i have tried spare ... A: There is a release pin on the lock housing that can be pressed in as long as the switch is in the ...
previa headgasket	7/31/2008
Q: I have a 94 previa sc/le. It been leaking coolant(from the over flow hose) and over heating. It ... A: Doing that won't help, there is too much pressure in the combustion chamber for stop-leaks to ...
95 camry	7/30/2008
Q: Where do I check the code for the check engine light and how do I find a list of the codes.Thanks A: Lpcate the diagnostic check connector under the hood, open the cover and place a jumper wire between ...
2004 Corolla Gear Selector Light	7/30/2008
Q: Ted - The gear selector light on my 2004 Corolla is out and needs to be replaced. How difficult of ... A: The center console needs to be removed, pull the shift plate plastic cover off, remove two bolts ...
Immobilizer System	7/29/2008
Q: I am working on 2007 TOYOTA FORTUNER (Model: TGN51-EKPSKV, Engine:2TR-FE). It’s equipped with engine ... A: Unless you are a toyota certified master technician working at a toyota dealer you will not be able ...
2001 4-RUNNER EVAP MALFUNCTION	7/28/2008
Q: TED..HAVE A P0446 CHECK ENGINE CODE FOR MY EVAP SYSTEM MALF. CHANGED FUEL CAP, STILL HAPPENING. ... A: This code comes up when there is a large leak in the evap system, I can't just suggest to start ...
2002 CAMRY	7/28/2008
Q: AFTER CHANGING MY BATTERY MY CAMRY WILL DIE IF I AM NOT MASHING THE GAS IT WAS DRIVING FINE TILL I ... A: The computer needs to relearn the drive cycles, have you driven it around in stop/go traffic for at ...
Power antenna - 2001 4Runner	7/27/2008
Q: The antenna has broken off. The motor appears to function as it still runs when the radio is turned ... A: The entire antenna doesn't need to be replaced, just the antenna cable/mast but the antenna has to ...
Vehicle won't start	7/27/2008
Q: I have a 1993 4Runner V6 automatic 4x4 with 146,000 miles. I've reset the cam setting and crank ... A: It sounds like the engine is not timed correctly, the cam timing may be off, make sure the #1 piston ...
Toyota Camry	7/26/2008
Q: I have Toyota camry '93 with 140K miles.Lately after I drive the car for ten miles or so with A/C on ... A: One reason may be a partially restricted radiator, removing the radiator taking it to a radiator ...
1998 toyota Camry air intake hose cracked	7/26/2008
Q: 1998 toyota Camry 4 cylinder 2.2 L I went for smog today and it failed due to a cracked air intake ... A: If the used hose looks ok and has no small cracks then I see no reason to not use it. Just loosen ...
97 4runner	7/25/2008
Q: i recently purchased a 97 4runner and it has a little garbage after market antenna on it. i have ... A: You'll have to remove the inner fender panel on the right side, remove the top nut on the antenna ...
1998 camry	7/25/2008
Q: I just put a crankshaft kit, head gasket and new timing belt on my 1998 camry 2.2L. After putting it ... A: It sounds like the timing is still off, make sure that the #1 piston is all the way up with the ...
ignition locked up	7/25/2008
Q: I have a 1994 4-Runner and I can't get the ignition switch to turn at all. The steering lock is so ... A: There is only one release pin on the lock housing and it will have to be put into the acc position ...
Driver side door panel removal	7/25/2008
Q: Electric window on driver side 1999 Corola makes noise going up would like to take a look at it but ... A: The door panel is held on mostly with plastic clips but there are a couple of screws also, look for ...
stiff gear shift lever	7/23/2008
Q: I have a '91 tercel the manual trans gear shift lever has suddenly become very stiff between gear ... A: Yes that's correct, if any soft drink, coffee or anything containing sugar was spilled on top of the ...
98 Camry 4cyl valve guide seals	7/22/2008
Q: I think I need valve guide seals as I'm noticing some blue smoke that only occurs briefly on a cold ... A: The cylinder head does not have to be removed to replace the valve seals, it is labor intensive and ...
1990 toyota truck tps switch	7/22/2008
Q: ok i think i have narrowed it down some more. My truck was running with a very bad sputter in the ... A: There is a very small amount of adjustment so I don't think that will fix the problem, is there a ...
2000 Camry steering and timing belt	7/21/2008
Q: 2000 Camry V6 with 78000 miles. A few days ago, when steering wheel is turned, feels and hears one ... A: I would recommend replacing the water pump at the same time, unless the seals are leaking or there ...
clutch repair	7/20/2008
Q: Clutch pedal has hit the floor. need to pull pedal up using hand or foot. Clutch point close to ... A: Check the operation of the clutch slave cylinder, does it move the clutch release arm when someone ...
Check engine light	7/18/2008
Q: I have a 1997 celica GT 2.2. I hooked up the diagnostic computer and it came up with the PO773 code. ... A: Most of the time the solenoid is not the problem but rather the result of fluid contamination ...
1999 Avalon Air bag light	7/18/2008
Q: Blinks all the time. All fuses okay. I was told that something might have gotten spilled on the box ... A: There is nothing under the passenger seat that has anything to do with the airbag system, what you ...
oil pump on an '89 SR5 P.U. w/ 3.0	7/15/2008
Q: My truck has 235,000 on it. I've been trying to stop my oil leak. I've replaced both valve cover ... A: In order to fix this leak the front engine covers need to be removed and all gaskets and seals ...
valve cover leak	7/14/2008
Q: I was told at Toyota that I have a small valve cover gasket leak on my 2001 Camry LE V6. I have ... A: The valves rarely go out of adjustment so I would say no, just have the gaskets replaced, the timing ...
shifting problem	7/14/2008
Q: Sir, I have a 2002 tacoma extra-cab 2x2 4 cyl. automatic with 118,000 miles. Recently it has not ... A: Are there any warning lights on the dash on? Is the fluid level correct and is the correct atf fluid ...
engine sludge	7/13/2008
Q: My car was diagnosed with engine sludge in 2006. I have a 98 camry. I sent the paperwork in to the ... A: What did the toyota dealer do or what did they recommend doing? Did they not offer to make any ...
95 Camry 4cyl HVAC	7/13/2008
Q: My A/C blows cold & is working fine, I just have a maintenance related question about it. I had an ... A: Don't waste your money, toyota has no recommended service intervals for a/c systems. There is no ...
AC toyota 4 runner	7/13/2008
Q: i have an 1989 toyota 4 runner 22r motor.The A.C compressor will not come on.When i press the A.c ... A: The compressor will come on as soon as it gets pressure from the freon source, the pressure switch ...
o2 Sensors	7/13/2008
Q: I have a 2002 Toyota Camry; 4C; with 150,000 miles. In Feb. I had both 02 senors replaced(check ... A: A converter that has the 420 code (cat system efficiency below threshold) has very little effect on ...
bad vibration	7/12/2008
Q: I just bought a 1994 toyota corolla 1.6 L 4A-FE automatic. The car has a bad vibration. In park the ... A: Fix the obvious problem first, any motor mount collapse can cause bad vibration, check all the rest ...
2001 corolla, in the morning starting then stalling, 2nd starting okay	7/12/2008
Q: I have this 2001 Toyota Corolla 4 cyl front Wheel Drive Automatic about 60000 miles. I got the ... A: Most of the time this happens because the part of the intake system called the throttle body has a ...
po446 service bulletin from toyota	7/12/2008
Q: I have a 1998 camry 4 cyl that keeps popping code po446 evap canister and am requesting that service ... A: Please provide an email address to send the bulletin to, I can't attach documents here, on the echo, ...
95 Geo Prizm won't start	7/11/2008
Q: This car is the 1.6L auto trans with 165k miles. I had electrical problems starting about 2 months ... A: Can you be more specific, what electrical problem did you have and what is the problem they didn't ...
AC toyota 4 runner	7/10/2008
Q: i have an 1989 toyota 4 runner 22r motor.The A.C compressor will not come on.When i press the A.c ... A: The first thing that has to be checked is the freon pressure, if there is not enough or no freon the ...
DTC Codes P0031, P0037, P2238	7/10/2008
Q: 2003 Camry V6, engine light recently came on with. Will replacing the O2 sensor possibly clear the ... A: All of these codes are related to the bank one side of the engine which the one closest to the ...
'98 4 runner door lock/security system fault	7/9/2008
Q: The electric door locks no longer can be locked from the inside with the key inserted (they pop ... A: Whatever door it was that the seatbelt got cought in is where the problem is, it sounds like the ...
Toyota Camry 2002 ABS light on	7/9/2008
Q: I just bought a Toyota and it passed Inspection in two states but the ABS light is on and stays on. ... A: No, don't replace the computer it's probably not the problem, this car has onboard diagnostics for ...
100000 mile preventative maintenance	7/8/2008
Q: I am a woman and am not sure what to do as far as preventative maintenance on my 2000 toyota sienna. ... A: At this mileage the timing belt is due to be replaced, it was due at 90,000 miles. The coolant ...
1997 toyota corolla check engine light	7/8/2008
Q: The check engine light came on in my 1997 toyota corolla. The code showed p0303 misfire occurred in ... A: Remove the #3 spark plug connector and check it for any signs of current leakage to ground, it may ...
scrapeing sound comeing from the wheels	7/7/2008
Q: There is a scrapeing sound coming from my wheels I have had the breaks check buy a friend and they ... A: Check the wheel bearings, with the car off the ground put it in gear and accelerate to make the ...
Should I Repair Or Replace?	7/7/2008
Q: I have a 1988 4 Runner in excellent condition w/106K,3VZE engine. Work completed in the last 3 ... A: This can be repaired by replacing the engine main bearings or only the #1 main bearing wich is the ...
1995 toyota camry le	7/7/2008
Q: Good morning Ted Ritter, i have a 1995 toyota camry le 4 cylinder automatic transmission. the ... A: The gauge fuse is in the same circuit as the backup lights and the brake lights so the problem could ...
1993 TOYOTA/CAMRY LE/3.0L V6 FI	7/6/2008
Q: Just bought a 93 Camry. Need to test/fix Air Conditioner Pump goes on but still blows hot air. Is ... A: It uses the R-12 freon which is no longer available, it should be converted to the R-134 type, this ...
firing order	7/6/2008
Q: re: 1996 4Runner 3.4L 6 cyl. What is the correct firing order for this motor? A: There are two cylinders fired from one coil pack, since there is no distributor there is no firing ...
1998 Toyota Sienne horn	7/5/2008
Q: I seem to have a bad contact in the steering wheel horn pad. How do I go about removing the horn ... A: You will need to remove the steering wheel airbag, disconnect the battery and wait 90 seconds, ...
2008 toyota rav4 4cyl auto awd	7/5/2008
Q: how do i reset the maintenance required warning sign.i already change the engine oil. A: Turn the ignition to ON, set the odometer to read ODO, push and hold the trip reset switch, turn the ...
1986 toyota corolla	7/5/2008
Q: Hey I got a 1986 toyota corolla, it's having a really hard time running in the heat. It seems to be ... A: The EGR test should make the engine stall at idle, if there is no effect on the engine then the egr ...
manual Rav4 speedometer failure	7/4/2008
Q: My 1998 Rav4's manual transmission was recently replaced because it had started popping out of 5th ... A: Yes there is another sensor in the speedometer but it could be a problem with the speedo gear or ...
Display "Hung Up"	7/4/2008
Q: I have the same problem with my 2004 Prius. The service station quoted me a price of $750.00 for the ... A: I'm not sure what exactly the problem is but if you are getting messages on the multifundtion ...
Re: 2001 EGR Valve	7/3/2008
Q: I had a question about my 2001 Toyota Camry LE. About 3 days back I got my "check engine" light come ... A: It would help me to know what the trouble code number is but since you say it's an egr related code ...
1990 Camry intermitten starter problem	7/3/2008
Q: I have the same problem with intermittent starter problems. I've replaced the starter and solenoid ... A: Check the neutral start switch located on the side of the transmission in the front near the ...
Toyota 87 pickup up-keep	7/3/2008
Q: What can I do to keep up on regular maintenance? I love the truck and just want to keep it running. ... A: Other than regular maintenance including oil changes, air, fuel filter, spark plugs, coolant, ...
Toyota Camry AC compressor replace	7/3/2008
Q: I bought a used ac compressor for my 93 camry and bolted it up to the motor. When I went to hook up ... A: There might have been a midyear production change or the compressor is not matched to the engine, a ...
Check Engine Light	7/2/2008
Q: I have a 2000 4Runner - V6. The check engine light came on. The codes are P0125 and P1135. I'm not ... A: The P1135 code is an air/fuel ratio sensor malfunction code bank one sensor one( translation) the ...
Clunk/rough shift into reverse	7/2/2008
Q: hope that you can help. I own a '98 Lexus ES300. For about 1 month, when I put the car in reverse ... A: There may be a problem with the transmission throttle pressure cable, it may be sticking or not ...
car stopped	7/1/2008
Q: My 1991 toyota camry stopped in the middle of the road with all the warning lights displayed on the ... A: The most common problem with stalling and restarting problems are that the coil inside the ...
High Hydrocarbons	7/1/2008
Q: I have a 1993 v6 Toyota 4-Runner with 232,959 miles and an automatic trans. On my last emissions ... A: Yes, that's the correct analisys, hydrocarbons are simply unburned fuel due to an incomplete ...
2001 Camry rough transmission bump in/out OD	7/1/2008
Q: 2001 Camry 160,000 miles. Trans serviced 155,000. When hot, trans make rough bump when shifting ... A: The Pennzoil is ok to use. I'm beginning to think that a serious transmission problem is starting to ...
tail and break light problem.	6/30/2008
Q: I bought a well used '79 3/4 ton Toyota Pickup. The head lights didn't work and it had a toggle ... A: Check all the tail light/turn signal and front side marker or parking lights, there may be an ...
Hood release pull, broke	6/30/2008
Q: We took my 1999 cameryLE in for an oil change to Pep Boys, as there are no close dearlers here I ... A: The only way I know of is to get to the 10mm bolts that connect the latch to the radiator upper ...
2001 Camry rough transmission bump in/out OD	6/30/2008
Q: 2001 Camry 160,000 miles. Trans serviced 155,000. When hot, trans make rough bump when shifting ... A: A solenoid malfunction would turn the check engine light on.Did this start after the transmission ...
96 Camry key stuck in ignition	6/29/2008
Q: Parked the car and could not get the key out of the ignition. 96 Toyota Camry, 139,000 miles, 4 ... A: There should be a shift interlock release button near the shifter in the console, remove the cover ...
over heat	6/29/2008
Q: i have a 1994 camery with v-6 engine car over heats after drivine a 1/2 mile ony code is egr, could ... A: An EGR malfunction will not make it overheat. There may be a coolant leak, has it been checked for ...
gas mileage	6/29/2008
Q: I have a 2006 Camry LE, 5 speed automatic, V4, with full factory warranty (7 year/100,000 miles) and ... A: The best way to go about this is to have the toyota dealer connect the techstream scantool to get ...
4runner noise	6/27/2008
Q: My 1999 2wd 4runner (125,000 miles) recently started making a rumbling noise at speeds only between ... A: Possibly one of the rear axle bearings or the differential pinion bearings, this can be checked with ...
93 toyota Camry AC vent blows lightly	6/27/2008
Q: I have a 1993 Toyota Camry. When I turn on my air conditioner or heater, (and I can have the knob ... A: Check the control cables attached to the air ducting on both sides under the dash, one of the cables ...
Camry V6 Conquest auto 1998 160,000 km	6/26/2008
Q: The engine service light is on. Cold start and the engine idle speed is too high at 1400 rpm. Idle ... A: The code 21 is a main oxygen sensor failure code, it may have been disconnected during the repair, ...
2002 Toyota Forerunner Lmtd.	6/25/2008
Q: ... A: If you have a copy of the repair orders then there should be a diagnostic trouble code or codes ...
1998 Landcruiser Antenna mast replacement	6/25/2008
Q: How do I get the old antenna mast and vinyl cord out and install a new one. I can remove the mast ... A: The inner fender liner has to be removed, then the antenna assembly removed, the antenna lead can ...
1998 Camry LH Drive Axle Removal	6/25/2008
Q: I am in the process of replacing the clutch on my 98 Toyota Camry. This car is a 4 cylinder with a ... A: Yes the haynes manual is correct,the axles can be pried out, there is only a thin round snapring on ...
83 Celica	6/24/2008
Q: I have an 83 Celica. A while back i had parked my 83 Celica 22re engine in my back yard. I told my ... A: Use the cover for the fuse designations,the fuel tank does not have to be removed to check fuel pump ...
Toyota Sequoia rear hatch lach breaking	6/24/2008
Q: I just got back from a dealer with a $250 bill for a plastic latch(Pt#69090-08010)$64.88 plus $180 ... A: Although this is a common problem, Toyota has not extended the warranty coverage, it is still ...
4Runner excessive cranking & gas odor	6/23/2008
Q: 1994 4Runner needs excessive cranking (about 4 seconds) to start up even hours after its been warmed ... A: A couple of possible causes, the cold start injector may be leaking or staying on too long, a more ...
Brake lights are on all the time	6/22/2008
Q: My brake lights will not go off unless I unhook the battery. I have a 93 toyota corolla. Where can I ... A: Yes, the brake light switch is most likely the problem, it's located on a bracket near the brake ...
1998 Toyota Rav4 Brake Lights	6/22/2008
Q: Both brake lights went out, but the small brake light at top of rear window works. I checked the ... A: Make sure that you replaced the right bulbs, since the center light still works it means that the ...
Remove door lock from Toyota Corolla Seca	6/22/2008
Q: I have lost my key and was told by a locksmith the cheapest way to get a new key cut is to remove ... A: Instead of doing that go to the toyota dealer and give them the VIN# of the car,go to the parts ...
1979 toyota charging problem	6/21/2008
Q: I replaced the alternator twice. i put in brand new voltage regulator. i replaced the positive ... A: Check the voltage between the two battery terminals with the engine running, it should be at least ...
RAV4 speedometer problem	6/20/2008
Q: The speedometer on my 2003, 38,000 mile RAV4 has suddenly failed. As I live in a remote area of ... A: In most cases this is due to a failed vehicle speed sensor mounted in the transmission, I'm assuming ...
2000 Toyota Corolla	6/20/2008
Q: We own a 2000 Toyota Corolla (manual transmission) that we purchased used. The current milage is ... A: This transmission has shift cables attached to the shifter that connect to the shift levers on the ...
83 Celica	6/18/2008
Q: I have an 83 Celica. A while back i had parked my 83 Celica 22re engine in my back yard. I told my ... A: Connecting a charger backwards or jumping the battery backwards will blow some fuses, check the ...
airbag light on	6/17/2008
Q: I have just purchased a 95 Tercel that has only 77,000 miles ($1000, not bad huh). I have addressed ... A: The first thing the dealer will do, or should do, is to access the diagnostic system to see what the ...
1990 Geo prism LS (corolla) Window runs	6/17/2008
Q: My driver's door window run has been shrinking and blowing wind, and it finally broke at the corner. ... A: Yes, try replacing all the window runs, the door panels don't need to be removed, after pulling the ...
1999 - 4 Runner starter removal 4x4	6/17/2008
Q: Sorry for not including all the necessary info. its a 1999 4 Runner Limited 4x4, V6 with auto ... A: I don't have your original question in front of me but anyway, the starter is connected with two ...
2001 Camry with a P0446 code	6/16/2008
Q: My 2001 Camry CE has 66,000 miles on it and comes up with a Code 0446. I've been told by a non ... A: The bulletin only covers the V-6 engine. Whether the problem is covered under warranty or not ...
Cruise Control	6/16/2008
Q: I drive a 1999 model toyota camry csx, the problem is that when i engage the cruise control the ... A: The light is blinking because the cruise control has a malfunction stored in the computer which you ...
Tune Up	6/16/2008
Q: My 94 Toyota 3vze v6 has lost some of its power over the years (180K mi) To get it back to "like ... A: This engine has always been disappointing in the power department, I used to own a 1990 4-Runner and ...
1985 Toyota PU	6/16/2008
Q: My speedometer does not work. The Gas and Temp. gauge works find. Is it hard to fix? Please tell me ... A: The speedometer is deiven by a mechanicak cable coming from the transmission, the cable may be ...
my rav4	6/15/2008
Q: I have a 2004 rav4 (4wheeldr). Recently my theft deterrent system went a little whacky. However, ... A: There are basically two types of keyless entry systems that were used by Toyota, the factory ...
Misfire 1-4-5	6/15/2008
Q: OBDII P1300 P0300 P0301 P0304 P0305 This has happened now twice to me. I will be returning home ... A: I have run into misfire codes that were not related to coils or wires etc. after making sure that ...
previa starting issue	6/15/2008
Q: Ted. I wrote to you before about a problem with my Toyota Previa. Problem: Enginer turns over ... A: I would be concerned with the cold start system, this engine uses a cold start injector located on ...
loss of coolant	6/15/2008
Q: 2000 echo started getting warm,,I think it is the fan but what do you think? switch or relay ... A: If the fans don't come on when the engine gets hot then the problem may be the temperature control ...
dash crack	6/14/2008
Q: I have an 04 4runner with 2 large vertical cracks on the passenger side dash board. I do live in ... A: There are two options, either replace the dash pad or find a local vinyl repair place that can ...
1990 Toyota Celica	6/14/2008
Q: 1990 Toyota Celica GT 2.2 Car won't start, starter won't turn over. got power going in. Had ... A: If there is one click heard from the starter when turning the key, it means the solenoid is making ...
Don't have running lights...	6/13/2008
Q: My brake lights,turn signals and headlights all work.The front and rear Running lights do not.Where ... A: Look for the relay on the left side where the rear fender is inside the trunk, remove the side ...
1992 toyota pickup 22re 4x4 manual	6/13/2008
Q: Where can I get to the fuel pump hot wire in the engine compartment ,as I need to splice into it ... A: Located the diagnostic check connector under the hood, find the FP terminal, this connector will be ...
1990 Toyota Celica	6/13/2008
Q: 1990 Toyota Celica GT 2.2 Car won't start, starter won't turn over. got power going in. Had ... A: When it doesn't turn over is there any clicking noise, if so the starter should be replaced, if ...
2001 Toyota Avalon Cruise Control	6/12/2008
Q: Just bought a 2001 Avalon with 57,000 miles. The cruise control does not work at all. The light ... A: The blinking light means that there is a trouble code stored in the computer, please have this ...
Engine Light on 04 Echo	6/12/2008
Q: Engine light keeps coming on, car seems to be running fine but codes that came back are P0441 ... A: Having all of these codes indicates a large leak in the emission control evap recovery system, in ...
01 Tacoma Wiring Harness Question	6/12/2008
Q: 01 Tacoma V6 I have a wire cut right at the end of the connector that connects to the igniter. Can ... A: Yes the terminals can be removed, most connectors use a small plastic tab which can be depressed ...
2001 echo	6/12/2008
Q: when starting my echo it starts rough or slower than before it runs fine after, ps a check engine ... A: What were the diagnostic trouble codes that made the check engine light come on? If it was at the ...
1995 Celica A/C system	6/11/2008
Q: My girlfriend's mechanic told us that the expansion valve is stuck closed in her car. He's informed ... A: If the compressor is seized then there is a good chance that metal particles from the compressor ...
'96 V6 3.4 T100 SR5 4WD A/T- Shift Solenoid	6/11/2008
Q: -I have enjoyed driving this T100 for the past 10 years. Only issue has been front brakes, but that ... A: Your email address is not visible to me if you include it with your name when asking a question ...
po505	6/11/2008
Q: I have a 2001 4runner with 130k miles. my check engine light came on and also my vsc trak vsc off ... A: Most of the time this is caused by a low idle condition, before replacing anything try removing the ...
1995 Celica A/C system	6/11/2008
Q: My girlfriend's mechanic told us that the expansion valve is stuck closed in her car. He's informed ... A: If the valve is the problem then it should be replaced but I have no idea whether that's the problem ...
Toyota Camry 92-96 camshaft seal	6/10/2008
Q: I was able to replace the timing belt and I would like to take advantage of this time to replace the ... A: The cam gear has to be removed, it has to be held stationary so that the bolt can be removed, the ...
1989 toyota camry v6 spark plugs	6/10/2008
Q: How do you access the rear spark plugs in order to change them? A: It can be done without removing the intake chamber, using a few differnt lenght 3/8" extensions, a ...
changing battery	6/10/2008
Q: Have a 97 camry. changed the battery and nothing. alarm system went off several times. is the ... A: Try doing the following: Open the driver side door, disconnect the negative battery terminal, put ...
power windows	6/10/2008
Q: so my power windows dont work from the master switch, so i took it apart hoping it was the ... A: The 12 volts can come from any wire that has 12 volts applied to it, remove the electrical connector ...
1994 Toyota 6 cyl. pick-up transmission issues	6/9/2008
Q: Ted, I have a 1994 6 cyl. toyota pickup. A few weeks ago, I drove it pretty hard over the ... A: The high sierras are my favorite place to visit, I live in so cal so I go there a lot, anyway it ...
93 toyota camry starts but then stops	6/9/2008
Q: For a while the car would just be driving normaly then all of a sudden it would just cut out, ... A: Most of the start up and then stalling problems are due to a large air intake leak, unless already ...
95 toyota 4runner loses power after warm	6/9/2008
Q: I really need help and I believe you're the man... 95 4runner 200,000 miles, starts and runs ... A: Possibly a restricted exhaust system due to a cat converter problem, check the converter to make ...
Toyota electrical	6/9/2008
Q: I have a 1995 Toyota 4-RUNNER 4wd. My question is about the electrical system. When i use my brakes ... A: I would recommend having the alternator and the battery tested, the alternator should be tested ...
Air conditioner	6/8/2008
Q: The air conditioner on my 97 celica was changing from cold air to hot air and now has stopped ... A: The most common cause is that the freon has leaked out because of a leak in the system, if the freon ...
2002 Toyota Camry low idle speed	6/8/2008
Q: June 7, 2008 God bless you. 2002 Toyota Camry, 2400cc, 2AZ-FE; 121,000+ miles. Idle speed is too ... A: It doesn't have a PCV valve and even if it did it wouldn't be the problem, the problem is that there ...
oil leak on 1987 toyota camry	6/8/2008
Q: Mr Ritter, I have a 1987 Toyota Camry. It has 246,000 miles on it. The timing belt was changed at ... A: There are three oil seals at the front of the engine, the crankshaft seal the camshaft seal and the ...
1990 4runner 6 cyl	6/8/2008
Q: changed my alternator and removed the distributor to make the task easier. Put everything back ... A: The distributor is not timed correctly. To fix this rotate the engine to the #1 TDC position with ...
1998 Toyota Camry	6/8/2008
Q: Sometimes I have a problem to start the engine on my 1998 Toyota "Camry" with 4 cylinders, ... A: The idle air control valve is a common problem, it can be cleaned by removing the throttle body and ...
03' Corolla Power Door Lock Not Working	6/7/2008
Q: My 03' corolla has only 37000 miles. The front passenger and rear passenger power door locks do not ... A: since two places came up with the same solution to the problem I would recommend following their ...
Engine goes into overdrive for no apparnt reason	6/7/2008
Q: I have a issue with my 94 Toyota 4runner, when it gets up in 5th gear over 70mph the engine revs up ... A: I'm still not sure what the problem may be because if the engine revs up the reading of rpms on the ...
Engine goes into overdrive for no apparnt reason	6/7/2008
Q: I have a issue with my 94 Toyota 4runner, when it gets up in 5th gear over 70mph the engine revs up ... A: Is this an automatic or manual transmission? Sorry, but I'm a little confused, only the manual ...
PO420 - 2001 Chevy Prizm - 75000 miles	6/7/2008
Q: I have a 2001 Chevy Prizm with about 75000 miles. I live in the Phoenix, Arizona area (drive the car ... A: I have a lot of experience with this trouble code and the end result is always that the cat ...
toyota 1998 sienna le	6/6/2008
Q: My engine is running hot. I just noticed that the fans are not kicking on. What can I do before I ... A: Check the fuses under the hood in the black box marked AM1 and AM2, if they are good then it gets a ...
1990 Toyota 4x4 pickup again won't start after new starter installed	6/6/2008
Q: I think I need help diagnosing an electrical problem! I have a 1990 Toyota 4-cyl 4x4 22r3 2.4liter ... A: There area couple of things that can still cause the problem, if it has an automatic transmission ...
spark plug replacement in a 2001 toyota sienna	6/5/2008
Q: how do i replace the rear spark plugs in a 2001 toyota sienna A: Not easy but it can be done without removing the intake chamber, it helps to remove the windshield ...
Ignition coil bad?	6/4/2008
Q: I have a '97 4Runner V6 with manual transmission and 136k miles. The check engine light came on ... A: Yes, that's correct, it's very possible that the #4 fuel injector is the problem but first I would ...
99 4Runner Antenna	6/4/2008
Q: I've replaced my antenna a couple times (first time car wash got me, next time a part broke). Well ... A: The antenna should be reoved and disasembled and any broken pieces of antenna mast removed from the ...
2000 Land Cruiser Service Bulletin EL002-02	6/4/2008
Q: My 2000 Land Cruiser encountered the problem detailed in service bulletin EL002-02 (Combination ... A: I'm not really sure what causes the continous buzzing noise except that there is a malfunction in ...
98 4runner fuse box	6/3/2008
Q: we replaced the alternator fuse and bought a new battery (other one was dead) to see why the 4runner ... A: Normally when the battery connections are reversed or jumped or charged backwards some of the fuses ...
engine fault code PO 441	6/3/2008
Q: My 99 Corolla is showing fault code PO 441.This is something to do with Evap.Emission control.Sounds ... A: The two most common problems for this code is that there is either a leak in the charcoal canister ...
Don't have running lights...	6/2/2008
Q: My brake lights,turn signals and headlights all work.The front and rear Running lights do not.Where ... A: It's probably not the relay, have you checked the fuse marked "tail" on the inside fuse panel? If ...
Timing Light and Tach	6/2/2008
Q: I have an older Camry, a 1995 with about 150K miles. I am thinking of investing in a timing light ... A: I have no experience with either one of them, as long as they both the features I mentioned ...
1991 Toyota Camry/ Wont Start	6/2/2008
Q: I have a 1991 Toyota Camry that will not start. It will crank over but will not start. I sprayed ... A: The distributor may be the problem, although the timing belt turns it can still be the problem if it ...
Toyota won't start	6/2/2008
Q: 1991 Toyota Corolla New fuel pump and filter has been installed and now will not start unless ... A: Most likely a problem with the ignition switch, the electrical part of the switch can be replaced, ...
Timing Light and Tach	6/1/2008
Q: I have an older Camry, a 1995 with about 150K miles. I am thinking of investing in a timing light ... A: There are timing lights available that have a tach built in and I would recommend one of those, they ...
transmission of 1991 tercel	6/1/2008
Q: I have had no problems with my trans with this car ever. I never really took the car very far out of ... A: It should be ok to drive back, the leak seems to be small, are you sure it's transmission fluid and ...
1994 Toyota 4Runner v6 4wd	5/31/2008
Q: How do I remove the old starter? I can't even find it. Thank you so much. Gary A: The starter is located on the right side of the engine under the exhaust manifold, it's helsd on ...
Burned exhaust valves on a 2001 Prizm	5/30/2008
Q: Ted, I have a 2001 Chevy Prizm, which from what I understand, uses the same engine as a 2001 ... A: No, the oil usage would not cause the valves to burn, valves normally do this because the valve ...
check engine light	5/30/2008
Q: i have a 90 toyota celica all trac it as a 2.0 turbo engine every time i hit about 2800 rpms the ... A: Possibly an O2 sensor problem, can you get the trouble codes and let me know what they are, under ...
4AGE Knock sensor wire	5/30/2008
Q: I have a 1994 Toyota 4age 20 valve (jap import) and I accidently cut the knock sensor wire. I cut ... A: You don't have to replace the wire to the computer, it sounds like that there is still not a good ...
2002 RAV4 Air Stopped blowing cold air	5/29/2008
Q: Air working fine when started out this morning, but while driving AC started blowing hot air. ... A: The most common problem for this is that there may be a freon leak and the freon level is low, ...
a/c heater controls proble	5/29/2008
Q: Ted, My 02 highlander suffered from the dreaded wire breaking on the heat temp knob. Had that ... A: The problem may be more than just one fuse, there is one fuse block under the hood and one inside ...
1995 TOYOTA CAMRY: CAR BUCKS WHEN I HIT THE GAS AND THEN SHUTS OFF	5/29/2008
Q: THE CAR WAS RUNNING NORMAL DRIVNG DOWN THE ROAD, I THEN NOTICED SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER. I THEN TRIED ... A: Check the ignition coil inside the distributor, remove the cap and the rotor and coil cover, inspect ...
Toyota Camary 1999	5/29/2008
Q: How hard to replace the water pump, when I fill the radiator, it pours out water in the Front of the ... A: Thye timing belt has to be removed as well and probably will need to be replaced, it's not that ...
1998 toyota camry	5/29/2008
Q: Yes I have this car and some times lately while I start the car it star ok, but some times the rpms ... A: This code is an evaporative emission control leak code and has nothing to do with driveability, it ...
2002 toyota camry A/C relay	5/28/2008
Q: I have a 2002 toyota camry xle that i think has a bad A/C relay but i can not find the relay in any ... A: The a/c relay is actually called the magnetic clutch relay and is designated on the inside of the ...
98 toyota camry le(L4-2164cc 2.2l dohc mfi)	5/27/2008
Q: my camry just died when i was driving down the road, when i tried to restart it, the engine sounds ... A: Fuel pumps normally don't go out without giving some sort of driveability problems before so I ...
1989 Toyota 4x4 pickup	5/26/2008
Q: My son owns a 1989 Toyota Pickup. It is a single cab 4X4 with a 22RE F/I engine and 5 speed ... A: Check the power steering pump for a leak, they normally leak at the front seal, you can get a reseal ...
1998 toyota camry	5/26/2008
Q: Yes I have this car and some times lately while I start the car it star ok, but some times the rpms ... A: Please find out why the check engine light is on, there is a trouble code in the onboard computer ...
95 Camry 4cyl front brake rotors	5/26/2008
Q: This is probably a stupid question, but I was hoping you could tell me the simplest way of removing ... A: These rotors normally just slide off, there must be some rust holding them on, see if there are ...
2003 Camry	5/25/2008
Q: Please tell me how to tighten/adjust my emergency brake for rear disc brakes. A: Remove both rear wheels, the brake rotors have a small brake drum that is part of the rotor, inside ...
99 Toyota Corolla	5/25/2008
Q: After running fine yesterday, our car won't start today. I changed out use spark plugs, and ... A: First check to see if there is a spark at the spark plugs, remove one of the plugs and connect the ...
2002 toyota solara	5/25/2008
Q: I have a 2002 toyota solara with the 2.4l. When I start it up it idles fine then it lowers down to ... A: Idle problems are common on these engines, in most cases replacing the idle air control valve ...
90 Toyota Corolla AllTrac	5/25/2008
Q: My wagon didn't pass smog today. the guy said my timing is off and EGR valve wasn't functioning ... A: EGR valves are seldom the problem on toyotas, in most cases the modulator valve that is attached to ...
Cold Start Problem: 1987 Camry 2.0	5/23/2008
Q: I don't hear the buzz sound from fuel pump when ignition is on before cranking. Therefore, I need to ... A: I recommend connecting a fuel pressure gauge to monitor the fuel pressure, after turning the ...
82 corolla is stalling and has loss of power!	5/23/2008
Q: My automatic 82 corolla will stall when idleing and has loss of power when driving (especially when ... A: It's possible that there is some kind of intake leak, possibly the intake manifold gasket or the ...
2000 toyota tacoma with california po420	5/23/2008
Q: I have had a po420 code which i thought i had solved i have replaced the upstream and downstream o2 ... A: Contaminated fuek can very well ruin an O2 sensor, what did the waveform patterns of both of the ...
Air Intake Missing Part	5/22/2008
Q: I have a 1995 Camry LE 4 cyl with 149K miles. I was having derivability issues, but have worked out ... A: Any openings in the intake manifold will have an affect on driveability, the first two you mentioned ...
2001 Toyota Sienna A/C bug	5/21/2008
Q: My A/C compressor drops out at times but when the clutch is engaged, it works great. It happens at ... A: Possibly low on freon, get a can of R-134 freon at any autoparts or large department store, it comes ...
2000 Tundra won't start, but then it does	5/21/2008
Q: Our 2000 Tundra won't start. We replaced the battery a few months ago. I went to get it smog ... A: Check the battery conncetions, remove the terminals and make sure there is no corrosion and if ...
Cold Start Problem: 1987 Camry 2.0	5/20/2008
Q: I don't hear the buzz sound from fuel pump when ignition is on before cranking. Therefore, I need to ... A: I'm sorry, I asked you for the year/model but you already gave it to me, to answer your question ...
Toyota Corolla