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HELP - car slightly sputters after removing negative cable for a minute...

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Old 07-07-14, 05:05 PM
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topgun129
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Default HELP - car slightly sputters after removing negative cable for a minute...

Hi,

The check engine sign came on and I wanted to reset the ECU to see if it was a false error being shown and I was told by my local autostore to simply remove the negative cable for 30 seconds. I think I did it for like one minute then reconnected it.

When I went to drive the car after starting it, it started hesitating and was not accelerating smoothly for about 30 seconds and then it worked itself out. After that, the car drove fine.

I use the car daily so I'm wondering if this is something to be concerned about or if all is well.

Thanks!

Last edited by topgun129; 07-07-14 at 05:08 PM.
Old 07-07-14, 06:41 PM
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Chuckinnj
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Your local store should have used a OBD reader to see what code was being thrown..... Most stores (like Auto Zone) will diagnose the code for you. Next time the code is thrown have it read to find out the code.
For now: If is not broke..... don't fix it.
Old 07-08-14, 12:49 AM
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ES300NZ
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a 1999 toyota has a learning ecu, the ecu will need to re-learn the engine. That said, when as the last time the spark plugs were changed ?

It sounds like the ecu was re-learning the fuel and ignition maps to apply in the situation. You would have been better served by finding out the actual code/error. and fixing the problem. The computer will not be making a mistake if it thinks something is wrong, it is.
Old 07-08-14, 05:20 AM
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Fritz330
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I bought this code reader from Amazon for 45 bucks. It plugs into a laptop and gives you a wealth of info in addition to reading and resetting codes. It also comes with the software.

Amazon.com: ScanTool 425801 OBDLink SX OBD-II Scan Tool USB Interface with OBDwiz Diagnostic Software: Automotive Amazon.com: ScanTool 425801 OBDLink SX OBD-II Scan Tool USB Interface with OBDwiz Diagnostic Software: Automotive
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