mcyota

I just purchased(Dec. 14) my 99 Limited 2wd w/ 77,000mi. I now have a little over 80,000. I was driving back from picking up some furniture at my inlaws(pulling a small trailer) when it started missing and stuttering. I also head a rattle come from underneath(after driving for about 3hrs @ 70mph). During all of this the check engine light flashed a few times and went off. Now, every time I give it a little gas it starts to sputter and the whole vehicle vibrates and shakes until I start to ease off. The check engine light is staying on now(with no trailer) and I am afraid to drive it until I find out what is wrong. I was thinking any off these could be bad: plugs, wires, cat, bad gas, etc. Any insite from someone who has had this problem would be great.

Thanks in advance,
Adam

MTL_4runner

You need to have the OBD codes pulled by a mechanic or dealer.
Autozone used to pull them for free but I am not sure if they still do?

Once you find what code(s) you have, post them here (need code #'s) and we'll help you out.

mcyota

Thanks alot for the quick reply...it just happened tonight on my way home and I have been scowering the forums trying to self medicate. I will try to go by and have it done tomorrow. Thanks again.

Adam

MTL_4runner

Make sure to use the "search" for the code you get.
There is just tons of good stuff on the board like that.

BruceTS

Just from the symptoms you explained, I'll bet you get a P0171 code, if so check your Mass Air flow sensor (MAF). It's one of the most common problems that occur, usually they get dirty and need to be cleaned. When cleaning you have to be very careful not to damage it, if that don't solve the problem, it may need to be replaced.

But trying to guess beyond that, you'll need to get an OBDII scanner hooked up to pull the code.

mcyota

P0304: miss fire in cylinder #4...and P0300 which is the miss fire in random cylinders. I purchased new plugs and wires and installed them, cleared the check engine light, and drove it with no problems. I guess it goes back to the first rule of troubleshooting..."start simple". I guess I just got some bad gas. Everything seems to be OK now. Thank you guys for all your help. I will probably be needing some more in the near future.

Adam