2000 Toyota Corolla Engine Code--Check Engine Light

CYRUS24

MEMBER
2000 TOYOTA COROLLA
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
117,600 MILES

I have replaced the MAF, cleaned the throttle body, replaced the PVC valve, air filter & plugs. I am saving the costly "before CAT" 02 sensor for last. After about a week the check engine light reappears & the same code everyone sees (P01 something."Lean fuel mixture") gets thrown. Many folks have gone straight to replacing the 02 sensors & CAT, and still throw that code. I have checked the plugs and they are dry, so I don't think I have a stuck ring/piston, however the engine still burns quite a bit of oil. Also,
there is no oil on the ground. Could it be a stuck valve? Just short of removing the bulb so I don't have to look at the engine light, or disconnecting/connecting the battery once a week,
Is there any inexpensive avenue left to pursue?
Is there anything else besides the gas tank cap or filler neck I can consider? Thanks for your help.

2 Replies

MIKEPOOLE

MEMBER
1 POST

I also own a 2000 Corolla (215,000 miles) My check engine light came on about a little more than your mileage and produced the same codes. The dealer really screwed me because the code is not specific according to them. They said I needed a new CAT $1200-1400 or new OXYGEN sensor $300-400 or some stupid MASS AIR flow $. Well of course I am going with the cheapest repair to get the light off and had them do OXYGEN sensor and MASS AIR flow (600+dollars) that did not do anything.
If you haven't yet got a new CAT Converter on your exhaust, have it done at by small town mechanic for $200 (supplies and labor). The light will go out and stay off at least a year or 2.
Another note is my car is also burning lots of oil. Which I add weekly. My car now has a new problem of losing power at idle (engine shakes hard) and full acceleration, also the check engine light fades on and off as the car drives. At first I thought it was some poor quality gas so I added STP fuel injector cleaner and gas treatment. It did nothing. I am afraid it could be sludge build up or maybe the exhaust system again.
Any ideas?