Common problems

You notice: Shaking in D/R at idle, weak uphill, worse with A/C, fuel economy <8 km/L

Usual cause: Clogged close-coupled converter

Fix: Clean or replace converter; check engine mounts

Parts: 25051-B1051

Codes: P0420

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You notice: Vibration at stop in D with A/C on, stops in N or A/C off; weak cooling

Usual cause: Refrigerant charge/high-side pressure, compressor/condenser condition; also catalyst/mounts

Fix: Recover and recharge exact 300±30 g HFC-134a (factory K1); inspect compressor, condenser

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You notice: Noise, no cooling

Usual cause: Expansion valve or liquid tank clogging leading to compressor failure (dealer claim)

Fix: Replace compressor + expansion valve + condenser/receiver; flush

Parts: 88320-9740188515-9720488450-B1010

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You notice: Chatter/whistle at certain rpm, faint whine with A/C

Usual cause: A/C compressor shaft bearing play, worn belt, water pump

Fix: Replace belt (and tension), water pump, compressor bearing

Parts: 90048-3104716100-80001

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You notice: Dies at idle under load

Usual cause: Suggested: weak fuel pump/clogged pump sock, catalyst, low compression

Fix: Check fuel pressure; replace in-tank filter/pump

Parts: 23210-B101023908-97205

Codes: P0171P0172

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You notice: Cranks, no start, pump silent

Usual cause: Relay/fuse/start-signal fault

Fix: Check EFI and fuel pump relays, fuses (left cowl box), starter-relay start signal

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You notice: Oil level drop, blue smoke on start

Usual cause: Valve stem seals / rings, often after long oil intervals

Fix: Monitor consumption; stem seals or overhaul; correct oil

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You notice: Brief rattle at cold start

Usual cause: Tensioner/guide wear, poor oil service

Fix: Chain kit if persistent

Codes: P1346

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You notice: Rough running, flashing MIL

Usual cause: Ignition coil failure; carbon deposits

Fix: Swap/replace coil, plugs

Parts: 90919-0226219070-B1011

Codes: P0300P0303

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You notice: Rough idle, hesitation, occasional stall

Usual cause: Carbon in throttle bore

Fix: Clean throttle body

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You notice: Poor km/L

Usual cause: Exhaust leak, dirty MAP/IAT sensor, oil grade

Fix: Fix exhaust leak, clean sensor, 0W-20

Parts: 89421-52010

Codes: P0105

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You notice: Water inside cabin from roof

Usual cause: Roof sealer defect

Fix: Reseal per Toyota campaign (KGC10/15/QNC10 built 2004-05..2010-01)

You notice: Clunk/rattle over bumps

Usual cause: Rack bush wear; bush not sold separately

Fix: Replace rack assy

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You notice: Battery light, flat battery

Usual cause: Alternator wear

Fix: Replace/rebuild alternator

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You notice: Knocks, wander

Usual cause: Wear (rough roads)

Fix: Replace struts, arms, bushes

Parts: 48510-B101048068-B1070

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You notice: Gear-change issue

Usual cause: Thread says CVT; 1st gen is 4AT, so car may be 2nd gen

Fix: AT fluid/valve body service suggested

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Factory manual specifies ATF Dexron (SM2 F03 line 85 'LUBRICANT: ATF Dexron'). Passo.su forum warns WS-type ATF is incompatible with other types and mixing causes shift shock.

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Models: DBA-M300S, DBA-M301S, DBA-M310S, ABA-M312S

Problem: Dealer-option rear turn signals installed with insufficient inner-edge spacing (not compliant with safety standard)

Remedy: Inspect position; remove non-compliant lamps. yellow paint near LH front strut nut

Official Japanese recall notice. Imported cars may or may not have had this done.

Models: DBA-KGC10, DBA-KGC15

Problem: Fuel control program may let emissions exceed the 75%-reduction (H17) certification level in use

Remedy: ECU program update (free)

Official Japanese recall notice. Imported cars may or may not have had this done.

Models: DBA-KGC10

Problem: Dealer-option washer fluid heater: O-ring lap insufficient, fluid enters control circuit, possible fire

Remedy: Remove heater, refund

Official Japanese recall notice. Imported cars may or may not have had this done.