2020 Toyota Avalon Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2020 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 2020 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 2020 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.

The most likely symptom of a faulty fuel temperature sensor is a check engine light. When the sensor goes bad, the Engine Control Module signals the driver that there is a problem by turning on the dash light. Poor fuel economy might also be noticed. In some cases, a failing fuel temperature sensor could lead to hard starting of the engine or an engine misfire and poor performance.

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 when a 2020 Toyota Avalon engine is stalling?

When troubleshooting a stalling engine in a 2020 Toyota Avalon, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by checking the fuel system, ensuring that there is enough fuel in the tank and inspecting the fuel pump and filter for any blockages or malfunctions that could impede fuel delivery. Next, examine the battery; look for corrosion on the terminals and verify that the battery is charged adequately, as a weak battery can lead to engine stalling. Following this, inspect the ignition system by checking the condition of the spark plugs and ignition coils, as these components are crucial for proper engine operation. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can provide valuable insights by revealing any error codes stored in the vehicle's computer, which can point to specific issues. Additionally, assess the air intake system by ensuring the air filter is clean and that the mass airflow sensor is functioning correctly, as restricted airflow can affect engine performance. Finally, inspect critical engine sensors, including the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors, to ensure they are operating as intended. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the stalling issue in your Avalon, potentially saving time and money on repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2020 Toyota Avalon?

When diagnosing engine stalling issues in a 2020 Toyota Avalon, it's essential to consider several common problems that can be tackled through DIY methods. Start by examining the fuel system, as a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump can significantly disrupt fuel delivery, leading to stalling. Next, inspect the ignition system; worn-out spark plugs or a failing ignition coil can prevent the engine from firing properly. Additionally, airflow issues should not be overlooked; a dirty air filter or a faulty mass airflow sensor can restrict the air needed for combustion. Sensor failures, particularly with the crankshaft or camshaft position sensors, can also cause the engine to stall, so checking these components is crucial. Lastly, electrical problems, such as a weak battery or a malfunctioning alternator, can lead to unexpected stalling. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve engine stalling issues in your Avalon, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2020 Toyota Avalon?

When it comes to the engine stalling issue in a 2020 Toyota Avalon, the urgency of addressing this problem cannot be overstated. Engine stalling can significantly compromise your safety, especially in critical driving situations such as merging onto highways or navigating busy intersections, where sudden acceleration is often necessary. Ignoring this issue not only increases the risk of accidents but can also lead to more severe mechanical failures, resulting in costly repairs and the inconvenience of being stranded. For DIY enthusiasts, it’s crucial to recognize that timely intervention can prevent further damage and ensure the vehicle's reliability. Regular maintenance and immediate attention to any stalling symptoms will not only enhance the performance of your Avalon but also extend its lifespan, making it a wise investment in your vehicle's health. Therefore, if you notice any signs of engine stalling, it is advisable to address them as soon as possible to maintain both safety and functionality.

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2020 Toyota Avalon Engine Stalling: Causes & Repairs