VSC off VSC trac and CEL on

[yotalifer]

While driving to work this morning the VSC off VSC trac and CEL all came on. I have read that the computer disables the VSC when there is an engine problem. If that isnt right please correct me.

Does anyone know where i can get a list of trouble codes? Can I read the codes without a reader like i can on my 94 toyota pickup?

thanks,
pb

[mastacox]

We need to know what kind of vehicle and engine this is with.

If it is a 1999-2002 4Runner with the 3.4l V-6 (5VZ-FE), it is an OBD-II system, and the codes can easily be ready by an OBD-II reader. Most auto parts stores will read your codes for free.

If it is a 2003+ 4Runner, or FJ Cruiser with the 4.0l V-6 (1GR-FE) (or for that matter a 2005+ Tacoma) it is an OBD-CAN interface, and needs an OBD-CAN reader. Same applies for most auto-parts stores reading the codes for free.

I'm not sure what the interface is on the 4th gen 4Runners with the V-8's, but I'm guessing the early non-VVT V-8's (235hp) have OBD-II, and the "newer" VVT-equipped V-8's (280ish hp) have OBD-CAN.

[yotalifer]

Oops got in a hurry...it is a 1999-2002 4Runner with the 3.4l V-6

Ill take it and get them read today...need to get a ball joint anyway.

thanks alot,
pb

[Lee]

judging by where it was posted, it was safe to assume it was an 01 or 02 since it had vsc and its a v6 since they discontinued to 4cyl in 01...

anyway, yes the vsc lights come on with EVERY cel. get the code read, post it up here and we'll help ya :thumbup:

[Good Times]

check your gas cap. it could be loose which can give you the xmas lights on your dash. otherwise hit up a local autozone and ask for the OBD II scanner (free) and find out what code your ecu is spitting.

good luck

[Lee]

fyi they refuse to clear codes so youll have to disconnect your battery.

[MTL_4runner]

Post the code and then we can go from there.

[yotalifer]

got a buddy at an O'reillys nearby...code was P0420 Catalyst efficiency below threshold bank 1.

we clear the codes and they havent come back.

Am i correct in thinking that the O2 sensor should be working correctly if it coded a bad cat?

[Lee]

do you have an exhaust leak?

i just got that code myself but i have a leak in front of my cat. i cleared the codes and they havent come back in 2 weeks now, so you are likely in the clear CEL-wise, but if i were you i'd check to see if you have a leak and fix it if you do (could just be a bad gasket).

im gonna fix mine soon, i just have a few other items to fix first.

[yotalifer]

I may have a leak somewhere...i noticed this morning it sounded a little different. Its hard to tell since i put the magnaflow on there.

Ill have time to check it out this week...have to put ball joints in anyway.

thanks guys,
pb

[MTL_4runner]

I agree with Lee, an exhaust leak is the very first item to check for with that code. If you do find one, then get that fixed before doing any further diagnosis. Let us know how you make out.