1999 Toyota Avalon Engine Is Stalling

Troubleshooting Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 1999 Toyota Avalon and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 1999 Toyota Avalon engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 1999 Toyota Avalon engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a 1999 Toyota Avalon experiencing engine stalling?

When faced with engine stalling in a 1999 Toyota Avalon, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to effectively identify the root cause. Start by checking the fuel system; ensure that the fuel tank has sufficient fuel and inspect the fuel filter for any clogs that could impede fuel flow. Next, turn your attention to the ignition system by examining the spark plugs for signs of wear or fouling, and test the ignition coils to confirm they are functioning correctly. Following this, assess the air intake system by inspecting the air filter for dirt and checking the throttle body for any obstructions that may restrict airflow. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can also be invaluable, as it allows you to retrieve any error codes from the vehicle's computer, providing insights into potential issues. Additionally, inspect vacuum hoses for cracks or leaks that could lead to a loss of vacuum pressure, and verify the operation of the mass airflow sensor, as a malfunctioning sensor can significantly impact engine performance. By systematically working through these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the stalling issue, empowering you to make informed repairs and restore your vehicle's functionality.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 1999 Toyota Avalon?

When diagnosing engine stalling issues in a 1999 Toyota Avalon, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be affecting performance. One of the primary culprits is a faulty mass airflow sensor, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture necessary for optimal engine operation. Additionally, dirty or clogged fuel injectors may prevent the engine from receiving the correct amount of fuel, leading to stalling. Another potential issue is a bad ignition coil, which can cause misfires and result in the engine stalling unexpectedly. Vacuum leaks can also significantly impact engine performance, as they disrupt the air intake process. Furthermore, problems with the fuel pump can hinder fuel delivery, causing the engine to stall. Lastly, a malfunctioning throttle position sensor can affect engine responsiveness and contribute to stalling. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve stalling issues in their Toyota Avalon, ensuring a smoother and more reliable driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 1999 Toyota Avalon?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 1999 Toyota Avalon, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. Stalling can lead to a sudden loss of power, especially while driving, which poses significant safety risks, particularly in high-traffic conditions. This unpredictability can result in dangerous situations for both the driver and other road users. Moreover, neglecting this issue can exacerbate existing problems, potentially leading to more severe engine damage and costly repairs down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize that timely intervention is key. Regular maintenance checks and immediate attention to stalling symptoms not only enhance the vehicle's performance but also ensure its longevity. Therefore, if you notice your Avalon stalling, it is advisable to diagnose the issue promptly, whether through self-assessment or by consulting a qualified mechanic, to maintain safe driving conditions and prevent further complications.

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