Hello! I have a 2014 toyota corolla, auto, 108K miles, original owner. Check engine light came on when I started the vehicle. I noticed it was accelerating briefly as I had it in park and it stopped accelerating after about 10-15 seconds. Went to Autozone, it put out the code P0303.
Took it to the dealership 2 days later for their diagnostics, they got codes P0301 and P0303. I havent been driving it.
Within the last few months I've done the usual regular maintenance, replaced the spark plugs and did an engine coolant drain and fill.
The dealership made several recommendations and the total price made my jaw drop (of course). They said replace intake manifold gasket $250 and reseal the timing belt cover $1900
Help! Any advice? I cant and won't spend that much.
Thank you so much!!!😊
Ella,
Your engine has a misfire which is a pretty serious issue and needs to be fixed. $2,000 is a lot less than a new car.
Dealers aren't the only ones who know how to fix cars. Visit a trusted independent mechanic and see if you can get the cost down.
I'm definitely trying! Thank you for responding!
If you go to our "Frequently Asked Questions", you will find a small list of some recommended mechanics, as well as a Scotty video about how to find one.
Thank you! I just discovered him on YouTube! 😊
I can see the intake manifold gasket replacement if there is an air leak but why replace the timing belt cover?
The service advisor said there was a leak so that's why for the timing cover. They then listed it on the receipt as "dealer recommended service". The only notes from the mechanic were the ones about the codes and the intake manifold gasket, that he thought that was why there was the sputtering I had mentioned (Saturday it briefly accelerated upon starting, Monday morning it sputtered when starting. I havent driven it except for going there). He made no notes about the timing cover. I do have another appointment in the morning to do that with the gasket.
The service advisor will probably tell you that you need a new suspension system next.
Yes, that is my concern how far down does the rabbit hole go
The dealer is not exactly inspiring confidence. I would go elsewhere.
I am confused. The Corolla has a timing chain, not a timing belt. If the timing chain cover is leaking and the gaskets need replacing, it's probably a good idea to change the chain, tensioners and guides while they are in there. Did they mention this to you? That would account for the $1900. I would suggest you take the car to an independent mechanic and avoid the dealer if possible. They are just not giving you a full explanation. Have someone else confirm this so called timing cover "leak."
There was no mention of the timing chain, belt, tensioners, nothing. On the multipoint inspection the only thing checked yellow was "fluid leaks" everything else was green for being ok at this time.
Sorry to hear about your hassles. This is an example of why I do not take my vehicles to dealers. If I can't do it myself, I have an independent mechanic I trust.
Find a good diagnostic independent mechanic. Have them do a general inspection of the vehicle. Have them rank the necessity of repairs, from immediate to "down the line." Ask them if they will absolutely fix the immediate and pressing problem right the first time, and whether they will guarantee that outcome. (The best mechanics aren't guessing parts changers, they're precise diagnosticians).
And stay away from dealerships. As Scotty and others say, most (with a few exceptions) are trying to steer folks into new vehicles.
Great points.
Thank you, I truly appreciate your responding. I have yet to find a mechanic around here I truly trust - the independent ones I've always relied upon for sound advice have either moved or are retired/no longer around. I'll keep searching! 😊
I think around here there are so few cars they're trying to upsell repair services. I will definitely follow your advice!
Sounds like a typical dealership. Tell the customer they need thousands in repairs, then offer them peanuts on their trade in for a new (average $45,000) new car, put a hundred into fixing the trade in and then sell it for thousands.