Misfiring, flashing check engine light, stalls and will not start

SELENA7676

MEMBER
2004 TOYOTA CAMRY
4 CYL
AUTOMATIC
200,000 MILES

The car randomly started to misfire one one day, it was shaking and jolting a lot. The check engine light started flashing and wasn’t picking up speed, also was burning a lot of gas. Then It started to stall out when I tried speeding up.
Also all this was like ten times worse when I would turn the A/C on. So I had to drive without the A/C on.
Then finally after a few days trying to figure out what it is it completely turned off while idling and now won’t turn back on.

All spark plugs are brand new. What else could it be?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi,

The first thing we need to do is have the computer scanned for diagnostic trouble codes. The flashing check engine light was indicating a misfire and there should be codes specific to the cylinders involved and other possible causes.

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

https://youtu.be/b2IJGfImVvw

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That is where I would start. I realize most people don't own a scan tool, but often times a parts store will lend one to you.

If you can't scan it, we need to check for spark and fuel to the engine. Here are three links. The first explains the most common causes of a crank no start condition. The second and third are for checking for ignition spark and checking fuel pressure.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

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Let me know what you find or if you have other questions. Also, if it is possible, record the engine cranking and upload it for me to hear. That may help me.

Take care and God Bless,

Joe