02 4Runner help with check engine light

Thanks Bob for the welcome email.
I have a family member with a 2002 4Runner, that has a Check Engine light and an ect light coming on once in a while.
Can anyone tell me what area of the car I should be looking at, or how to diagnose it further?

Thank you,
Nico

 

Hey Nico: I had a 2000 sr5 with 3.4 v6 with check light. I would suggest have some one pull the codes with an OBII scanner. Some parts stores will do it free. Then you'll have some idea where the problem is. I'm not sure if the 2002 has an oil change reminder that will light this . Check the owners manual and do the the reset for oil change and see if that clears it. If yours doesn't have an oil change reminder it you'll have to rely on the codes. You can clear a lot of codes buy removing the negative battery terminal for about 60 seconds. If something is definetly wrong the light will come back on. Just google 2002 4runner error code ( what ever it is) and look for an answer in forums. The ect light says you have selected ect with the dash push button which puts the transmission in a different performance mode. If it is coming on by it's self I don't have clue.
Back to your check engine light, try disconnecting the negative battery post first. If the light stays out for 30 to 50 miles your good. If it comes on quickly (a mile or 2) Get the codes checked. Some codes don't clear by removing the battery power. Not sure which one. If you have codes read and it points to emissions (O2 or air/fuel sensors) which is common after 150k use denso replacement parts. The cost a lot less and are the same sensors without the toyota stamp on it. I replaced both sensors on mine and and still had the same code (ineffiecent catalytic convrter) I replaced both with after market converters and still had the same problems. Unless the manufacturer says it will clear the code in writing don't waste the money. If you state inspection reqires an emissions check try removing the battery post just prior to the inspection. You just might make it till you can get it fixed.
Good luck!!

 

Nico,

I don't know where in the US you're at but it may save a lot of guesswork &/or frustration to just get an . It takes me about 4-5 minutes to get the code & clear it. Once you have the code just look it up here. I bought this one from Harbor Freight Tools about 8 years ago & it works great but it's impossible to monitor while driving.

If you really want to get the full data stream from your ECU with one second update intervals, get an Ultragauge. I bought an Ultragauge EM+ last year & put my OBD2 reader in my toolbox as a backup. On a 3rd gen 4Runner you can monitor at least 44 different sensors output in real-time. I can read & clear a CEL sitting at a stoplight without having to restart the engine. I'd recommend getting the windshield mount for the Ultragauge as well if you decide to get one.