Toyota 4Runner Engine is sputtering Inspection at your home or office.

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Engine is sputtering Inspection Service

How much does a Engine is sputtering Inspection cost?

On average, the cost for a Toyota 4Runner Engine is sputtering Inspection is $95 with $0 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
1988 Toyota 4RunnerV6-3.0LService typeEngine is sputtering InspectionEstimate$114.99Shop/Dealer Price$124.99 - $132.49
2016 Toyota 4RunnerV6-4.0LService typeEngine is sputtering InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$105.01 - $112.52
1990 Toyota 4RunnerL4-2.4LService typeEngine is sputtering InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$105.01 - $112.52
1995 Toyota 4RunnerV6-3.0LService typeEngine is sputtering InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$104.99 - $112.48
1998 Toyota 4RunnerL4-2.7LService typeEngine is sputtering InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$105.02 - $112.55
2003 Toyota 4RunnerV6-4.0LService typeEngine is sputtering InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$105.01 - $112.52
1996 Toyota 4RunnerV6-3.4LService typeEngine is sputtering InspectionEstimate$99.99Shop/Dealer Price$109.87 - $117.28
1986 Toyota 4RunnerL4-2.4L TurboService typeEngine is sputtering InspectionEstimate$99.99Shop/Dealer Price$110.24 - $117.94
Show example Toyota 4Runner Engine is sputtering Inspection prices

In almost all cases, a sputtering engine is trying to tell you that there is a deeper problem that requires immediate attention. An engine running out of gas will definitely sputter but if the gas gauge indicates full, the problem lies deeper inside the engine compartment.

An incomplete combustion in the engine will cause a sputter as can the ignition system. The fuel system, such as a blocked fuel injector may also cause the vehicle to sputter. While a sputtering engine may not seem like a major issue, it is a symptom of a bigger problem that will not self-correct and will eventually result in a much more expensive repair. The source of the sputter should be investigated and repaired as soon as possible.

How this system works:

A sputtering engine can have its root cause located in a number of different systems. Here are two of the more common ones, the exhaust and fuel system.

The exhaust system collects exhaust gases from the cylinder head via the exhaust manifold, which acts as a funnel diverting exhaust gases away from the cylinders. The gases are then released through the front pipe where they travel to the catalytic converter. The catalytic converter removes the harmful elements of the gases such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen monoxide, converting them into inert gases.

The gases exit the catalytic converter into the muffler, which reduces the noise levels of the engine, and finally the exhaust fumes exit the vehicle at the tail pipe.

The fuel system is responsible for storing and supplying fuel to the car to drive the engine. Fuel is mixed with air, atomized and vaporized. This happens in the engine intake system. This mixture is then compressed in the engine cylinder and then ignited which produces the energy which moves the pistons.

Common reasons for this to happen:

  • Leak in Exhaust Manifold: A leak in the exhaust manifold, which collects exhaust gases, can cause the engine to sputter or run unevenly. This condition can also cause the Check Engine light to trigger as well as present increased engine noise and poor performance from the engine. A cracked or leaking exhaust manifold can create dangerous driving condition as the escaping hot gases can melt nearby plastic components. It can also lead to exhaust fumes making their way into the car cabin.

  • Worn Seals or Gaskets: There are a number of gaskets and seals in the exhaust system and if any of them are failing it can create a rough or sputtering engine. Gaskets and seals wear down over time and will eventually have to be replaced. Failing to do this in a timely manner can damage the exhaust manifold which is a much more expensive repair.

  • Failing Catalytic Converter: If the engine is sputtering, running rough and has a smell of rotten eggs it is probably due to a failing catalytic converter. In most cases, the Check Engine light will trigger as well. When a converter starts to fail, it isn’t able to burn off the hydrocarbons in the exhaust, and is no longer breaking down the sulfur created by the engine. This leads to the strong rotten egg smell. Eventually the car will not start at all as the catalytic converter becomes totally blocked.

  • Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensors: Oxygen sensors measure how rich or lean the exhaust gases are when they leave the vehicles combustion chamber. The vehicle computer uses this information to adjust the amount of fuel entering the engine. A dirty or failing sensor puts too much or too little fuel into the engine causing it to run rough or sputter. Oxygen sensors must be replaced on a regular basis.

  • Dirty Fuel Injectors: Fuel injectors spray fuel into the cylinders. It is then mixed with air and ignited. Fuel injector nozzles can become clogged over time, which can lead to a sputtering engine, slow acceleration and the car not having enough power. Fuel injectors can be cleaned if the problem is caught early, but as the conditions worsens, the injectors may have to be replaced.

  • Bad or Dirty Spark Plugs: Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel in the combustion chamber. If they are not working correctly or are dirty they don’t ignite the fuel cleanly and the car can misfire or sputter. The plugs will need to be replaced or cleaned.

  • Dirty Mass Airflow Sensor: The mass airflow sensor measures the amount of air that is entering the fuel injection system. It sends that information to the vehicle computer, which then delivers the proper amount of fuel to the combustion chamber. A dirty mass airflow sensor will send the wrong information the computer resulting in a rough running or sputtering engine.

  • Vacuum Leak: A leak in the vacuum system can lead to a sputtering or rough running engine. As the problem progresses the vehicle can hesitate or stall when accelerating.

What to expect:

A top-rated mobile mechanic will come to your home or office to determine the source and cause of the engine is sputtering issue, ​and will then provide a detailed inspection report that includes the scope and cost of the necessary repairs.

How it's done:

A mechanic will inspect your car's exhaust system and other important components of your vehicle. This includes the exhaust manifold, exhaust seals and gaskets, oxygen sensors, airflow sensors and more. It may be necessary for the mechanic to crank up your car to diagnose your engine's sputtering.

How important is this service?

In almost all cases, a sputter engine is a symptom of a more serious issue lurking below the surface. If the problem is not diagnosed and repaired in a timely manner the vehicle will likely start to stall, become hard to start and eventually stop running altogether.

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Cesar

9 years of experience
292 reviews
Cesar
9 years of experience
Toyota 4Runner V6-3.0L - Engine is sputtering - Snohomish, Washington
Cesar was friendly and professional. Quickly diagnosed and fixed the problem. I would not hesitate to use him again and would recommend him to friends and family.

Kiri

20 years of experience
372 reviews
Kiri
20 years of experience
Toyota 4Runner V6-3.4L - Engine is sputtering - Havertown, Pennsylvania
Kiri was professional, knowledgeable and polite.

Chet

41 years of experience
491 reviews
Chet
41 years of experience
Toyota 4Runner V6-4.0L - CarGurus Pre-purchase Car Inspection - San Diego, California
Chet performed a pre-purchase inspection of a vehicle I was interested in. He provide an photos of all issues he noted along with a voice memo of his findings. I wasn't able to attend because I live in another state. His findings saved me a wasted trip. I will definitely use Chet again in the future if I come across another vehicle in his neck of the woods.

Steven

14 years of experience
425 reviews
Steven
14 years of experience
Toyota 4Runner V6-3.4L - Control Arm Assembly Replacement (Front Lower Left, Front Lower Right) - Phoenix, Arizona
Great communication and very professional. He arrived on time equipped with everything to do the job. Worked efficiently and carefully. Great results so far. Thanks!

Excellent Rating

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Rating Summary
1,063
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3
10
1,063
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Number of Toyota 4Runner services completed
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