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1998 Toyota Rav4 Repair Question


Topics covered: Smell, Check engine light, Engine.
Mileage: 170,000 miles.

Asked on June 22, 2011

Bucking

My '98 RAV4 is bucking strongly, it is worst when decelerating at under 3,000 rpm, it also has a strong exhaust smell like unburnt fuel while idling, any ideas?
Avatar Asked by clmbandski

Answer

Replied on June 22, 2011

Is it well serviced?

Tiny Answered by Sixpack Subaru
0 questions asked
Replied on June 22, 2011

Check engine light on? if yes have codes been read?

Tiny Answered by Docfixit (expert)
18,622 answers provided
Replied on June 22, 2011

Sixpack Subaru- things have been a little tight lately so I am a bit behind on scheduled maintenance but overall it is well maintained.

Docfixit- the check engine light was on briefly at one point but it has since gone off again.

I know this age group is famous for O2 sensor issues, the unburnt fuel smell makes me wonder if it might be another sensor issue. Has anyone experienced surging/bucking due to a faulty O2 sinsor?

Tiny Response from clmbandski
1 question asked

Replied on June 22, 2011

The unburnt fuel smell indicates it is most probably a misfiring cylinder. Have the spark plugs and related components checked.

The CEL indicating briefly could mean a truble code has been stored. Get a free scan done at parts stores and let us know what it is.

Speculating is not going to get you anywhere.

Tiny Answered by KHLow2008 (expert)
40,332 answers provided