I was driving and delivering for DoorDash when all of a sudden, the check engine light started flashing. I pulled over to check it out, and this happened out of nowhere. Everything seemed fine before this. What could be going on?
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It sounds like the rear oil control valve sensor might have failed, which is causing misfires in cylinders 1, 3, and 5. I’d recommend not driving it until this is sorted out to avoid more damage.
Vann said:
It sounds like the rear oil control valve sensor might have failed, which is causing misfires in cylinders 1, 3, and 5. I’d recommend not driving it until this is sorted out to avoid more damage.
This explanation seems pretty accurate.
Vann said:
It sounds like the rear oil control valve sensor might have failed, which is causing misfires in cylinders 1, 3, and 5. I’d recommend not driving it until this is sorted out to avoid more damage.
I was so close to home that I decided to drive the car back. Oddly, when I started driving again, it seemed fine. I’m thinking of clearing the codes and seeing if the problem comes back.
@Zinnia
If it starts misfiring again, it’ll probably come up soon. Sometimes the sensor just gets dirty and that could trigger the issue. If the check engine light flashes again, it’s best to stop driving to avoid further damage.
@Vann
Could this issue be related to a MAF sensor I replaced a few days ago? It doesn’t seem connected, but I’m not sure.
Zinnia said:
@Vann
Could this issue be related to a MAF sensor I replaced a few days ago? It doesn’t seem connected, but I’m not sure.
It’s unlikely, but to rule it out completely, you’d need to test the MAF sensor and its wiring.
Zinnia said:
@Vann
Could this issue be related to a MAF sensor I replaced a few days ago? It doesn’t seem connected, but I’m not sure.
Was the MAF sensor an actual OEM part or something from a cheaper source?
@Dakota
I got an OEM Denso sensor, but it was from Amazon, so there’s a chance it’s not truly OEM.
@Vann
Do you know where the sensor is located? Is it easy to reach?
Zinnia said:
@Vann
Do you know where the sensor is located? Is it easy to reach?
It’s related to cam timing and is located near the back, close to the top of the engine on the passenger side. You might have to remove some wiring or hoses. There should be a guide on YouTube if you need help.
Zinnia said:
@Vann
Do you know where the sensor is located? Is it easy to reach?
Check your oil. Sometimes low oil causes these kinds of issues. My car burns oil, and the first sign is the VVT acting up, causing misfires.
@Harley
That was the first thing I checked, but the oil level is fine.
The engine is misfiring. It’s all on one bank of cylinders, which gives you a clue. Could be a fuel delivery issue. Have you changed the fuel filter recently?
Daire said:
The engine is misfiring. It’s all on one bank of cylinders, which gives you a clue. Could be a fuel delivery issue. Have you changed the fuel filter recently?
I haven’t replaced it since I got the car on New Year’s Day in 2022.
@Zinnia
It’s a good idea to change it on your next day off. Most are pretty easy to replace. While you’re at it, check the air filter and spark plugs. If it acts up again, connect your scanner and check the sensor data for timing issues.
Can you share the year, make, model, and mileage? It’ll help us narrow things down.
Tilden said:
Can you share the year, make, model, and mileage? It’ll help us narrow things down.
It’s a 2002 Toyota Highlander with 204k miles.
Tilden said:
Can you share the year, make, model, and mileage? It’ll help us narrow things down.
It’s a 2002 Toyota Highlander with 204k miles.
Have you replaced the timing belt?