Should I trust an auto shop??

[afmatt]

Hey all. Just picked up a 2001 4runner and it has the VSC TRAC, VSC OFF, Check Engine and ABS lights all on. From what i've been reading it is probably a bad O2 sensor.

Now I just need some advice -- I am stationed here in Hawaii and the locals have a tendency to rip off us military.

Should I go purchase my own diagnostic scanner or take it to a shop and see what they say? (and if I purchase my own is there a specific kind I need for my vehicle?)

Thanks any response helpful

 

[KidVermicious]

I don't know why a shop would lie to you about an ECU code, but don't you have access to a garage there on base? I've never seen a base or field that didn't have a hobby shop. $10 says they've got a code scanner and all the tools you'll need. If that doesn't work, any chain auto parts store will pull your codes for free.

 

[afmatt]

I don't know why a shop would lie to you about an ECU code, but don't you have access to a garage there on base? I've never seen a base or field that didn't have a hobby shop. $10 says they've got a code scanner and all the tools you'll need. If that doesn't work, any chain auto parts store will pull your codes for free.

I've had to deal with some shady auto centers in the past, I still have problems trusting they won't sabotage my vehicle to get more money or something.

You are right there is a hobby shop, I called but the hobby shop doesn't actually own a code scanner. Apparently it is the mechanics own personal code scanner and it is by appointment basis (as well as $30 fee), won't be available till next friday so that is out of the question.

I've been doing some more reading and it appears that it is most likely bad O2 sensor. What harm is there that I just go ahead and replace both O2 sensors?

Here are some pics I just took of both of them (I believe)

 

[KidVermicious]

You'd be out the money for the sensors if they didn't fix your trouble, but you're not going to hurt anything by swapping them out.

 

[afmatt]

You'd be out the money for the sensors if they didn't fix your trouble, but you're not going to hurt anything by swapping them out.

Just an update if anyone/you are curious, got an OBD scanner and came up as a bad O2 sensor. (P1135 Air-Fuel Sensor Heater Circuit Response Malfunction )

Got a new OEM part from a Servco Toyota cost me about $280, got it up on the lift low and behold the bolts are rusted over terribly, ended up having to bring it to a Goodyear that did it for an additional $100 (steep).

Check engine light is gone now on to the VCS lights and ABS.