Engine Code P0333

2013 SR5, 107k mi

Our house has mice; apparently one has chewed thru a wire close to the connector for the knock sensor on the back of the engine close to the firewall. Looks awfully tight to be able to repair it as is. Researching as I wait for it to cool down. Guess the first question is whether it's bad for the engine to keep driving it til I can get it fixed...acceleration is definitely down; both the 'check engine' light and 'Track Off' indicator are illuminated and Cruise is not working.

I've been quoted $600, saying the only way to fix it is to pull the intake manifold. Looking for a DIY solution...so a few questions. How exactly do I disconnect the connector without damaging anything? Are there any lesser disassemblies I can disconnect or remove to get some working room around the wiring harness?

I'm pretty good with a soldering iron if I can get a little room. Appreciate any helpful inputs. Do not want to remove the intake manifold.

Thanks, Roy

 

Placing a stocking, in the engine compartment with moth balls or I think peppermint.....(Can't recall) will stop future visits from the mice!
Not healthy to "keep driving it"!
Your auto insurance should cover it and repairs will be done correctly at the dealership.

 

Thanks, I live in the desert, and nothing similar I've tried ( cat urine crystals, etc) has helped keep packrats away on any of my three vehicles. Might be diff for mice, best thing I've found for the packrats is an led stobe light called Ridarat which I have on all 3, plus keep the hoods up overnight, and watch carefully for packrat tracks in the dust of all black plastic surfaces. None this time. Insurance will pay for mice damage? Never thunk, but will check. Roy

 

You're want to pull the intake manifold to clean up the mouse nest and check if any of the other wires are damaged. For example, mice may have chewed on the insulation on a fuel injector wire that may be hanging by a thread. Make sure you have replacement gaskets on hand. You can unbolt the throttle body from the manifold to avoid disconnecting coolant lines.

The knock sensor harness has a convenient disconnect close by, resulting in a short harness assembly, only $24. No soldering or crimping needed: https://parts.lakelandtoyota.com/p/__/WIRE--SENSOR-WIRING/4103824/822190C010.html Most of the connectors unplug fairly easily with a pocket screwdriver actuating the tabs:

 

Excellent! Thanks, just what I was looking for. Much appreciated. Roy