1999 camry bucking/jerking

[archfubar]

Hello all,

As the title states, I have a 1999 camry, 4 cylinder 2.2l. For a while now, the car has been doing this thing where it bucks/jerks when in low gears. It only does this when I step abruptly on the gas, or abruptly let it go. It is especially noticeable when the engine is cold. I haven't been having any real problems with the car. It idles fine, and the engine sounds fine, but this little problem is kind of irritating.

Like I said, when I'm traveling at higher speeds it's not a problem. Also, after the car's warmed up it's not as noticeable (but you can still tell it's there). Has anyone experienced a problem like this, or have any idea what it might be?

I appreciate any and all help.

[toyocam99]

I think I had the same problem. It is your spark plugs and/or wires I think.

[Kep]

Check your air flow sensor and engine coolant temperature sensor. These could be sending a bad signal to the computer. It might also be a dirty EGR system and/or throttle body. Do checks and cleaning first before buying replacement parts (unless your time is more expensive than the parts I guess). I would also go with toyocam99 and check the resistance of your wires. There are probably some static tests that you can do on the coils also (but they should work better cold than hot).

Kep

[cmjohnson]

I had that exact same symptom. It turned out to be a cracked main air intake hose. Check yours
carefully for cracks or other damage that can cause air leaks.


CJ

[archfubar]

Thank you all for your suggestions, I'm definitely going to look into all those possibilities. I also wanted to mention 1 more factor that I probably should have included in my original description - it's a 5 speed. I don't know if that changes anyone's interpretation.