Engine stalls or stutters

1997 TOYOTA COROLLA
245,000 MILES • 1.6L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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SMOKINGSMARTIES420
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My car is stalling while idling and keeps shutting off while trying to drive it almost like a misfire. I replaced the MAP sensor and the distributor cap plus the sparks plugs. I was thinking maybe o2 sensor?
Jun 25, 2021 at 2:18 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

The first thing I would suggest is to have the computer scanned for diagnostic trouble codes. That will point us in the right direction. Otherwise, it becomes a guessing game.

Here is a quick video showing how it's done:

https://youtu.be/YV3TRZwer8k

I realize most people don't own a scan tool. However, most parts stores will do it free of charge. If you have that done, let me know what codes are found.

As far as an O2 sensor, that certainly could be causing problems. However, so can a coolant temp sensor, fuel pressure, an engine vacuum leak, and so on. That is why I'm suggesting the scan.

One thing that you can do that won't cost money is check for a vacuum leak. Here is a link that shows how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

Let me know. Also, let me know if there are any strange sounds, odors, or smoke from the exhaust.

Take care,

Joe
Jun 25, 2021 at 2:56 PM
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SMOKINGSMARTIES420
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No odors or smells. i have no check engine light. i have narrowed it down to either the TPS or bad gas. starting to think TPS. I believe it isn't working properly.
Jun 26, 2021 at 11:21 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

It could be possible. I am attaching information below that is related to checking and servicing the throttle body. There are tests related to the TPS.

Take a look through these and see if you are comfortable doing the tests.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

See pics below.
Jun 26, 2021 at 1:13 PM
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SMOKINGSMARTIES420
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I have done everything I can, even did the EGR and still same thing. I even replaced the MAP sensor and the distributor cap still same thing and it's getting worse.
Jun 27, 2021 at 7:07 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

Okay. I need you to check the crankshaft position sensor. It could be causing the issue. If you look at pic 1 below, it shows how it's checked. Pic 2 shows its location.

If the sensor checks good, before we spend more on repairs, let's confirm that engine compression is good. Low compression can be the cause and it has a lot of miles. You will need a compression gauge, but most parts stores will lend one to you.

Here is a link that shows how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
Jun 27, 2021 at 2:09 PM
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SMOKINGSMARTIES420
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Crank shaft sensor is brand new just paid $100.00 for it last month.
Jun 28, 2021 at 2:51 AM
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SMOKINGSMARTIES420
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This started happening on the highway and then just got real bad it was like a engine shut off at first or misfire then every time you got to drive it it stalls unless you give it a lot of gas.
Jun 28, 2021 at 2:52 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

Based on that and what has been done, it almost sounds like either a vacuum issue (but you already checked for that), or even a plugged catalytic converter.

Take a look through this link and let me know if you feel it mirrors what you are experiencing.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/bad-catalytic-converter-symptoms

If you feel that isn't a possibility, then we need to check compression.

Let me know.

Joe
Jun 28, 2021 at 1:11 PM
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