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eberhard_lang37

Avensis engine stalling

Alright, car gurus, I'm officially stumped. My 2003 Toyota Avensis with a gasoline engine is giving me fits. The check engine light is on, and it keeps stalling when I'm idling, like at stop lights. A mechanic said something about the tank ventilation valve, and that maybe the hoses are clogged? Has anyone dealt with this gremlin before? It's got about 180559 km on the clock, and I'm just hoping it's not a crazy expensive fix. Help!

4 comment(s)

stefantiger10

Sounds familiar. I had a similar issue with my Avensis, though I can't recall the exact year. The engine light and stalling are classic symptoms. Check if there's any hissing sound coming from the fuel tank area after you turn off the engine. Also, does it seem to happen more when the fuel tank is full or nearly empty?

eberhard_lang37 (Author)

Hissing, you say? I haven't noticed anything like that, but I'll definitely keep an ear out. And good question about the fuel level! I honestly haven't paid attention. Where exactly should I be listening for that hissing? Is it super obvious or kind of faint?

stefantiger10

The hissing might be faint, so listen closely near the fuel filler cap and around the rear wheels after you switch off the ignition. If you don't hear anything, it doesn't rule out the ventilation issue completely, but it would have been a quick check. Honestly, if the check engine light is on and it's stalling, it's best to get it checked out at a workshop. They can hook it up to a diagnostic tool and pinpoint the exact problem.

eberhard_lang37 (Author)

Okay, thanks a bunch for the advice. I took it to my local mechanic, and you were spot on – it was the tank ventilation valve. Turns out some of the hoses were indeed clogged. They replaced the valve and cleaned everything out. Cost me about 175€, but at least the engine light is off and it's not stalling anymore. I really appreciate the help!

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