Power loss - VSC/TRAC malfunction?

[TJM]

I have a new (to me) 02 SR5. I have found that once in a while there is power loss to the drive train - no matter how hard I hit the gas, the RPMs go nowhere and I creep along at about 5 MPH. It goes away in 5 - 10 seconds but it's an unacceptable safety risk, not to mention annoying.

It acts just like the VSC/TRAC when sliding in mud or snow, if that clarifies the issue, but the indicator light and that little beeping noise aren't coming on.

Any clue what's going on? Fuse, wire, gremlin, etc? Haven't done OBDII yet, not even sure we have one at the moment. This is my first stop, and will be under the hood in a couple days.

 

[jgue467]

I'd start by checking for CEL codes, even if no CEL light is on - they can be stored as pending. If nothing, then try standard tune-up stuff like plugs/wires, MAF/IAC cleaning and go from there. Luck! :cowboy:

 

[TJM]

Okay, after some technical difficulties that left me unable to post for a bit (thank you mods and admin for fixing that!) I'm back to say I think I know what the issue is.

After reading about similar issues I believe I have narrowed it down to a dirty air intake throttle body. I found the diagnosis and fix here:

https://mike-thomson.com/blog/?p=1178#more-1178


I'm going to try this fix this weekend, maybe add some seafoam too.

 

[TJM]

Well I guess that wasn't it...

So I got in there and scrubbed the throttle body pretty good with a rag, nylon brush and throttle body cleaner. The lag has been better but it's still there from time to time. So either I didn't get it clean enough or that wasn't the issue at all.

Anyway, gratuitous before and after pics:

Not sure what to check next so I'm going to re-clean it and try to get it all this time

 

[INTMD8]

Did you ever find a resolution for this?

My parents 01 4Runner is having the same issue. (though mainly for some reason in 4wd).

It seems that it's related to abs/traction control and zero point calibration did not fix it.

 

[joeyz]

Check the plug connection at the Master Cylinder on the fire wall. It will be on the bottom/right, in front of the MC. I have to check mine because when it gets real cold out here in Colorado, the Lights come on the Dash and the system is not working. Then it will warm up outside and the lights will Magically go off, and the system is working again.

 

[TJM]

Sorry it's been so long since I updated, but this issue hasn't been resolved yet. We tried adjusting the throttle, then replaced the entire throttle body. New plugs and wires too. Nothing has worked yet. Fuel filter will be next but I don't have high hopes for that as a fix. Anyone know how much it might cost to have the fuel lines replaced?

 

[nail bender]

I would try the fuel filter. inexpensive like 15 or 20 dollars. also an easy job like less than 20 minutes. I would not think the fuel line would be your problem. is the check engine light coming on?