Highlander Knocking Combustion

I've got a 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid with only 81289 km that's developed a distressing knocking combustion. I've noticed reduced engine power and unsettling jerking during acceleration. There's also noticeable smoke upon acceleration, and the error memory is storing faults. Could deposits in the combustion chamber be the cause? Has anyone else had this?

4 comment(s)

Reduced power and jerking, eh? Sounds familiar. I had something similar going on with my Highlander, though it wasn't quite as dramatic. Smoke on acceleration is definitely not good. Have you checked your fuel octane lately? And what about the ignition timing? Does the knocking sound get worse when the engine is cold?

Fuel octane is within the recommended range, and ignition timing appears nominal upon initial inspection. The knocking seems consistent regardless of engine temperature. Could cylinder head deposits really cause this? Did your issue resolve after addressing potential combustion chamber residue?

Ah, consistent knocking… yes, mine did end up being combustion chamber deposits. I tried a few fuel additives, but honestly, nothing really shifted it. In the end, I bit the bullet and took it to a workshop. They sorted it out pretty quickly and saved me from tearing the engine apart myself. Honestly, with the smoke you're seeing, I wouldn't delay getting it looked at professionally.

Your shared experience proves invaluable! A visit to the workshop it is, then. The diagnosis mirrored your suspicions: deposits aplenty within the combustion chamber. A thorough cleaning, costing 425€, has restored the Highlander to its former glory. Many thanks for guiding me towards the solution!

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