2007 Toyota Highlander Engine Is Stalling

Troubleshooting Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2007 Toyota Highlander and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2007 Toyota Highlander 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 2007 Toyota Highlander 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 2007 Toyota Highlander experiencing engine stalling?

When faced with engine stalling in a 2007 Toyota Highlander, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking for error codes using an OBD-II scanner, as these codes can reveal specific issues within the vehicle's systems. Next, inspect the fuel system, including the fuel pump, filter, and injectors, to ensure that fuel is being delivered adequately to the engine. Following this, examine the ignition system components such as spark plugs and ignition coils to confirm they are functioning correctly and providing the necessary spark. Additionally, evaluate the air intake system for any obstructions or leaks that could disrupt the air-fuel mixture. Don't overlook the importance of engine sensors; testing components like the mass airflow and throttle position sensors can help ensure accurate data is being relayed to the engine control module. Lastly, check for vacuum leaks in the lines and hoses, as these can significantly impact engine performance. By methodically following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the stalling issue in your Highlander, empowering you to tackle the problem with confidence.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2007 Toyota Highlander?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2007 Toyota Highlander, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One frequent culprit is a faulty mass airflow sensor, which can disrupt the delicate balance of air and fuel entering the engine, leading to stalling. Additionally, dirty or clogged fuel injectors can hinder proper fuel delivery, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly. Another potential issue is a bad ignition coil, which may result in misfires that can ultimately lead to engine shutdown. Problems with the fuel pump, such as insufficient fuel pressure or a failing unit, can also contribute to stalling. Furthermore, vacuum leaks can disrupt the air intake system, negatively impacting engine performance. Lastly, a malfunctioning throttle position sensor can prevent the engine from maintaining a stable idle speed, resulting in stalling. By identifying and addressing these issues, DIY enthusiasts can effectively troubleshoot and resolve engine stalling problems in their Highlander.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2007 Toyota Highlander?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2007 Toyota Highlander is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. An engine that stalls unexpectedly can lead to a loss of control while driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, neglecting this problem can result in more severe damage to the engine and other critical components, which may lead to costly repairs down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize that regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to ensuring the vehicle operates smoothly and safely. Therefore, if you notice any signs of stalling, it is crucial to diagnose and address the issue as soon as possible, either by consulting repair manuals or seeking professional assistance, to prevent further complications and ensure the longevity of your Highlander.

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