2001 Avalon Ping - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

go2rjm · 09-18-2009, 09:10 AM

I have a 2001 Avalon xls.The vehicle had the timing belt replaced at 90k and now has 151k. I have recently noticed the enginge start to ping around 1500-1800 rpm. Performance seems normal. What is the best way to diagnose the problem? Is there a timing issue? Are 1 or more of the knock sensors at fault? There is no check engine light on.

csaxon · 09-18-2009, 04:57 PM

I suspect the upper cylinder (piston,valves,injectors) are carboned up. Try a bottle of Techron Plus or Seafoam. Follow the directions and report back. Knock sensors usually throw codes and you'll feel it before 1800 rpm. You can try a higher octane fuel and see if that makes a difference. You may have refueled with some bad gas, it happens.

go2rjm · 09-22-2009, 08:59 AM

Thanks for the advise. I am trying the sea foam. Plan on a can a tank until improvement then once a month if it works.

go2rjm · 09-23-2009, 08:49 AM

I added 1 can of Seafoam and only went through about a 1/4 tank of gas and the ping is gone. Wow! I will keep up with occasional use from now on. Thanks for the great advise.

csaxon · 09-24-2009, 09:17 PM

I'm glad to help. WARNING: There's a reason that SEAFOAM is sold in a can! If it's not diluted by the fuel or oil, it will soften and eat plastic! Follow the directions and only use it as needed.