03 VSC/Check Engine Light Problem

[md4runner]

Two weeks ago I brought my 4Runner in b/c my Check Engine Light came on along with my VSC Warning Lights...The Diagnosis was that I needed a new Fuel Sensor...I have 40k miles on my 4Runner, so it wasn't under warranty...I had to dish out $440 for the new Fuel Sensor...

Today, the same lights came on today, and now they're saying that the ECU needs to be replaced, but it's covered under warranty...So, they're ordering the part and I'm having this done tomorrow...

Do you guys think I should dispute the $440 charge? What exactly is the ECU?

 

[4RNR-LOVN]

The ECU is the main computer on our 4Runners. It certainly wouldn't hurt to push back on covering the fuel sensor, talk with the service manager and be persistant.

Karl

 

[greasefingers]

This is peculiar. I have never seen a fuel sensor on any of my vehicles. Typically there is a fuse, relay, fuel pump, mechanical pressure regulator, and then the injector. I do know that a vapor pressure sensor on the gas tank itself. I believe it is used for the charcoal canister or maybe for cutting the fuel delivery for roll-over, but I am only guessing.

I would like to know why the VSC light came on for something like this. The engine light usually comes on for emission issues.

TeryT,

 

[Solice]

What is the fuel sensor? Is that what controls our "electronic" fuel gauge? I thought I read somewhere that the 4Runner has something that causes the fuel always to read the same, no matter what kind of incline your on. Is that the job of the fuel sensor? If so, what the heck could that have to do with the VSC?

Something doesn't sound right there.

 

[Spider5]

When these two light came on I had to replace the yaw sensor. Others in the forum have noted the same problem and also replaced this sensor to solve the problem. Poor diagnosis is not your fault. If they don't give a refund I would make an argument to have them put the old fuel sensor back in since nothing was wrong with it, this might get their attention to at least give you something back.

 

[greasefingers]

The Yaw sensor is under the center consol, just in front of the gear shifter. You could make sure that the plug is firmly connected. Unplugging it and then reconnecting it would be smart. If you feel adventurous, there are two different voltages to check for on the sensor itself. You would have to back-probe it with a DVM.

 

[BOSMECH]

When ever you get a CEL you will get the VSC off and VSC trac light.
First get the code for CEL then after you fix it if the VSC off and Trac don't go out do a zero point calibration and that will fix it.
Here is how to do the zero point cal (remember dont rush, I say again don't rush it)
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/120156-cel-vsc-lights.html