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kevinguenther67

Matrix Engine Stalling

Hey, my 2005 Toyota Matrix with a gasoline engine is giving me headaches! The check engine light is on, and the engine stalls sometimes at idle. I suspect it's the tank ventilation valve. Could be clogged hoses, right? Anyone else had this?

4 comment(s)

jessicakeller1

I had a similar issue with my Toyota Matrix, though I can't recall the exact year. If the check engine light is on and you're experiencing stalling, especially at idle, it's highly plausible that the purge valve within the EVAP system is malfunctioning. Have you checked the gas cap to ensure it's properly sealed? A loose gas cap can also trigger similar symptoms. It would be useful to get the exact error code using an OBDII scanner; that can narrow down the problem quite a bit.

kevinguenther67 (Author)

Thanks for the tip! I'll check the gas cap. Where exactly is the purge valve located? And is it something I can clean myself, or am I looking at a replacement?

jessicakeller1

The purge valve location can vary slightly, but it's usually somewhere on the engine near the intake manifold. While you could attempt to clean it, I wouldn't recommend it unless you're experienced. A faulty valve might need replacement, and without proper diagnostic tools, you might end up causing more harm than good. Given your symptoms, and especially if cleaning doesn't resolve the stalling issue, I'd suggest taking it to a qualified workshop to diagnose the EVAP system thoroughly.

kevinguenther67 (Author)

Thanks! I appreciate the advice. Took it to the workshop, and you were right. It was the ventilation valve and some clogged hoses. Cost me 175€ to fix everything. Runs like new now!

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