1998 Toyota Supra Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 1998 Toyota Supra 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 1998 Toyota Supra 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 1998 Toyota Supra 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 steps to diagnose the stalling issue in a 1998 Toyota Supra?

When diagnosing a stalling issue in a 1998 Toyota Supra, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by examining the fuel system, as issues with the fuel pump, filter, or injectors can often lead to stalling. Ensure that the fuel pressure meets the manufacturer's specifications, as inadequate pressure can disrupt engine performance. Next, turn your attention to the ignition system; inspect spark plugs, ignition coils, and cables for wear or damage, and test these components to confirm they are functioning correctly. Following this, check the air intake system for any obstructions and ensure the air filter is clean, as restricted airflow can also cause stalling. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer can provide valuable insights into potential issues. Additionally, inspect vacuum lines for leaks, as even small cracks can lead to significant performance problems. Finally, assess the engine sensors, such as the mass airflow and oxygen sensors, replacing any that are faulty. By methodically following these steps, you can effectively identify and address the root cause of the stalling issue in your Supra.

What are the common problems that could cause a 1998 Toyota Supra engine to stall?

When troubleshooting a stalling engine in a 1998 Toyota Supra, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting performance. One of the primary culprits is the fuel system, where issues such as a failing fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or malfunctioning fuel injectors can hinder proper fuel delivery, leading to stalling. Additionally, the ignition system plays a crucial role; components like spark plugs, ignition coils, and the distributor must function correctly to prevent misfires that can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly. Airflow problems, often stemming from a faulty mass airflow sensor or throttle position sensor, can disrupt the delicate air-fuel mixture, further contributing to stalling issues. It's also important to check for vacuum leaks in the intake system, as these can create an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture, exacerbating the problem. Engine overheating, typically due to cooling system failures, can lead to stalling as well, as high temperatures can impair engine function. Lastly, electrical issues, including faulty wiring or malfunctioning sensors, can result in intermittent power loss, causing the engine to stall. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve stalling problems in your Supra, ensuring a smoother driving experience. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are key to keeping your vehicle running optimally.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 1998 Toyota Supra?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 1998 Toyota Supra is of utmost urgency due to the serious safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls unexpectedly, it can lead to a sudden loss of power, which is particularly dangerous in high-traffic situations or at high speeds, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, neglecting this problem can exacerbate existing issues, potentially resulting in more severe damage to the engine and other vital components, leading to costly repairs down the line. Additionally, a stalling engine can significantly affect the vehicle's performance, making it frustrating and inconvenient for the driver. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and resolve any stalling issues promptly to ensure the safety, reliability, and longevity of your Toyota Supra.

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1998 Toyota Supra Engine Stalling Causes & Repairs