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Jim
Grant has been working in the automotive industry for over twenty
years. In addition, Jim is an ASE Master Technician with advanced
L/1 certification. He works as manager and technician in his
family's automotive business in New Hampshire. He writes weekly
automotive consumer columns and is editor of an automotive newsletter
that is circulated throughout North America. |
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Jim Grant's Tech Tips
95
Toyota 4Runner, Service Engine Soon Light
Q: I'm looking for information concerning my ‘95 Toyota 4Runner. After
numerous times to almost constantly, the Service Engine Soon light coming
on, I have adjusted the valves, tuned up the engine several times, replaced
both oxygen sensors more than once. The latest information I received
was Code 25, meaning burnt valve in number six. I just noticed tonight
though, that moisture is dropping from the muffler after driving for 20
miles or so. I was told that it could possibly be a blown head gasket.
I am a single mom and could sure use some straight answers. I have already
put over a grand into it in the past ten months. Thanks for any advice
you can give me.
A: I’m
pretty impressed that a Toyota computer can tell you that a valve in your
engine is burnt, especially when the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) reported
is for the engine running too lean, meaning it’s not getting enough fuel.
If an engine is running too lean all the new oxygen sensors in the world
won’t fix it! Which brings up the question: Why all the tune-ups???? Did
someone tell you the Check Engine Light meant you needed a tune-up? If
so, you’re big time in the wrong repair shop, get out fast!!!! Toyota
computers are pretty relaxed. What I mean is the computer doesn’t turn
the Check Engine Light on until it is truly convinced that there is a
problem. Anyone that tries to sell you service or repairs without asking
the computer, "first" what the problem is, is doing you serious misjustice!
This concern about a bad head gasket and possible bad valve should be
addressed first. Water dripping from the exhaust of a vehicle is normal.
What isn’t normal is if the coolant level keeps dropping. If coolant has
to be added regularly then have the coolant loss diagnosed first. A compression
test will confirm if you have a bad valve or not. Either a bad valve or
head gasket requires major engine work. No amount of tune-up or computer
parts will correct for engine problems. The time for guess work is over,
you need to find a qualified repair facility, be it independent or dealer,
to diagnose your problems first. Then install only the parts needed to
correctly repair your vehicle.
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