Engine Controls - Pinging/Knocking Climbing Grades
T-SB-0017-08Rev1
March 12, 2008
Engine "Pinging" or "Knocking" Noise
Service Category
Engine/Hybrid System
Section
Engine Control
Market
USA
Applicability
TSB REVISION NOTICE
^ June 18, 2008 Rev1:
^ Applicability has been updated to include 2001 and 2002 model years.
^ Parts Information has been updated with part numbers for 2001 and 2002 model years.
Any previous printed versions of this service bulletin should be discarded.
Introduction
Some 2001 - 2003 model year Highlander vehicles equipped with a 1MZ-FE engine may exhibit an intermittent "pinging" or "knocking" noise when accelerating slowly up a grade. The Engine Control Module (ECM) (SAE term: Powertrain Control Module/PCM) logic has been improved to address this condition.
Warranty Information
APPLICABLE WARRANTY
^ This repair is covered under the Toyota Federal Emission Warranty. This warranty is in effect for 96 months or 80,000 miles, whichever occurs first, from the vehicle's in-service date.
^ Warranty application is limited to correction of a problem based upon a customer's specific complaint.
Parts Information
Inspection Procedure
1. Drive the vehicle slowly up a slight grade using light throttle input.
2. If engine "pinging" or "knocking" can be heard between 1400 - 1800 rpm, follow the procedure below to resolve the customer's concern.
Repair Procedure
1. Remove and replace the ECM (PCM).
2. Start the engine and warm it up to normal operating temperature before test driving.
3. Test drive the vehicle to confirm normal operation. The repair is complete.