Corolla keeps stalling in heavy traffic and long idles | Car Doctor
Q: I have a 2009 Toyota Corolla with a 4-cylinder, 1.8-liter engine. If the car is stuck in heavy stop-and-go traffic, or just sits idling for more than 20 minutes or so, it keeps stalling. Toyota changed the spark plugs and cleaned the fuel injectors and throttle body, but it didn't make a difference. Any ideas?
A: The repair shop performed the most common repairs to solve a stalling issue. I’m assuming the shop also looked for computer fault codes to rule out issues such as faulty ignition coils. One area they may have overlooked is the transmission.
Although it's not common, but possible, the torque converter clutch could still be applied as you are coming to a stop, causing the engine to stall.
Since the car stalls after running or idling for 20 minutes, it would be best to hook up diagnostic equipment (scanner and fuel pressure gauge), let the car idle and stall, and then look at the reading.
What is your opinion of the 2023 Kia Sportage?
Q: What is your opinion on a 2023 Kia Sportage? From what I have been reading, it seems to be a very reliable vehicle.
A: Certainly, Kia, as well as its corporate cousin Hyundai, have had their share of engine issues with some models. Overall, I would consider Kia vehicles quite reliable.
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The 2023 Sportage is a very good compact SUV. The interior is comfortable, and the ride and handling are quite good for an SUV.
If your driving is on-road, and you are looking for all-wheel drive for winter travel, the Sportage is a good choice.
If you are looking to go off-road, or driving on the beach, there are better choices.
What's the best way to ensure car will start in very cold weather?
Q: I had a question about the arctic blast we had in February. Prior to the below-zero temperatures, I had the oil changed and new spark plugs replaced in my 2014 Toyota Camry. Also, the night before, I put in gas line antifreeze as well as filled the fuel tank. With the new plugs and oil change, did this help my nine-year-old Camry start?
A: A properly maintained vehicle should start in any weather. Having a strong battery is very important.
When the temperature drops to zero, it takes nearly twice as much energy to start an engine. This is due to the oil and other fluids that are affected by very cold temperatures.
Older spark plugs can cause the engine to crank longer before starting.
Having a full fuel tank also helps prevent condensation, and although gas line antifreeze may not be necessary, it didn’t hurt.
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Jeep randomly changes radio stations and places phone calls
Q: I have a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited. I have what appears to be a common issue with Jeeps. Occasionally, my radio will randomly change stations regardless of CarPlay being hooked up or just Bluetooth. Sometimes if I unplug CarPlay, it will randomly start calling people on my contact list.
Is there any known fix for this issue? It is very frustrating.
A: There are at least two over-the-air software updates that may correct the issue. I would certainly start there if they haven't been performed.
What is great about these updates is that you should be able to do these updates yourself, using prompts on the main menu on the infotainment display.
Is repair of Volvo airbag sensor worth the expense?
Q: I have a 2015.5 Volvo S60 in good condition with low mileage, but I keep getting an airbag message. So far, a local shop has it reading an issue with the front driver’s seat.
What are your thoughts on having the dealer fix the car? What about the cost? Should I get it fixed?
A: If the repair shop read a code for the occupant weight sensor, the repair will require disassembly of the seat. The dealer may be the best choice.
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The sensor is an expensive part, $1,200 to $1,500 plus necessary labor.
When the airbag light is illuminated, and the message is displayed, the airbag system will not work. Since airbags save lives, it should be repaired.
Wheels look dirtier since car's last brake job
Q: Ever since my car’s last brake job, I have noticed that the alloy wheels need more cleaning than usual. Is it possible the quality of the brake pads is the issue?
A: The composition of the brake pads could be causing more dust on the wheels. Ceramic brake pads typically produce the least amount of dust.
The other issue is, if the brakes are dragging a bit, it could be causing more dust. This could be due to sticking of the brake calipers or the brake caliper slides (mounts).
I would start with a check of the brake calipers. I would also ask the repair shop what type of brake pads they used on your vehicle.
John Paul is the AAA Northeast Car Doctor. He has more than 40 years of experience in the automobile industry and is an ASE-Certified Master Technician. Write to John Paul, The Car Doctor, at 110 Royal Little Drive, Providence, RI 02904. Or email jpaul@aaanortheast.com and put “Car Doctor” in the subject field. Follow him on Twitter @johnfpaul or on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: 2009 Corolla stalls in heavy traffic or long idles | Car Doctor
