How to Troubleshoot the Ignition System in a Toyota Corolla

Toyota Corollas have been made with carburetorless ignition systems for more than 10 years. So there is very little you can do to service one without being an expert. Check the battery first before you try to troubleshoot your Corolla's ignition system. You might find out the problem isn't with the system itself.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Calibrated ignition tester
• OBD-II scan tool
• 16mm spark plug wrench

1. Basics

   • 1

     Make sure the battery cable clamps are tight and clean where they connect to your Corolla's battery. Test the battery's condition and replace it if it doesn't pass.

   • 2

     Check the ignition system's wiring and connections and the fuses related to the system. Replace all parts that are worn or burned.

   • 3

     Use an OBD-II scan tool to check the system, making sure your tool is for your year Corolla. Connect the tool to the Data Link Connector under the driver dash. Look for a code to appear indicating an ignition system problem.

   Spark Test 1

   • 1

     Connect a calibrated ignition tester to a bolt or metal bracket on the engine. Remove an ignition coil and connect the tester to the spark plug boot. Reconnect the coil to the electrical connector and clip the tester to a good ground.

   • 2

     Crank up the Corolla's engine. Look at the end of the tester. The ignition system is working properly if a bright blue, well-defined spark appears.

   • 3

     Disconnect the coil from the electrical connector if a weak or no spark occurs. Check the terminals for damage along with the battery voltage to the coils.

   Spark Test 2

   • 1

     Remove the Corolla's ignition coils. Then remove the spark plugs with a 16mm spark plug wrench.

   • 2

     Install each spark plug into an ignition coil (with an igniter). Connect the ignition coil connectors. Disconnect the four injector connectors and ground the spark plugs.

   • 3

     Start the engine and look for sparks occurring at each spark plug. Don't crank the engine for more than 2 seconds.

Tips & Warnings

• The main engine compartment fuse box is near the left strut tower. The interior fuse box is underneath the instrument panel to the left of the steering column.

• The following scan tool codes are standard for ignition system related problems: "P0355" and "P1335" are for crankshaft position sensor problems, "P0340-P0341" are camshaft position sensor problems, "P0351-P0354" mean ignition coil trouble, and "P1300," "P1305," "P1310" and "P1315" mean ignition system malfunctions.

• You can only check a Corolla's ignition coils by substituting a good coil, because Toyota doesn't publish the resistance specifications. Keep in mind that you can't return electrical parts after purchase.

How to Replace an Air Filter in a Toyota Tacoma

Changing the air filter on a Toyota Tacoma is one of the easiest maintenance task for this car. Air filters clean the air that flows to the engine and it can increase gas mileage and car performance. Car manufacturers recommend changing air filters every 30,000 miles or 24 months. Change the filter every 12 months or 15,000 miles when the vehicle is driven in extremely dusty conditions.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Turn off the car before changing the air filter. Don't start the car once the air filter has been removed, it acts as a barrier were the car to backfire.

   • 2

     Locate the box that houses the air filter. Look in the center on the passenger side of the car for rectangular-shaped black box that has an accordion-type tube attached to it.

   • 3

     Undo the clips that keep the housing lid secure. Lift the lid and compress the accordion-type tubing towards the engine.

   • 4

     Remove the old filter from the housing unit. Clean any leaves or debris out of the box.

   • 5

     Replace the old filter with a new filter that is made for the specific make and model of your Toyota Tacoma. Use a K&N filter, part number 33-2306, for Tacoma's that are manufactured during the years of 2005 to 2008. Locate early model air filter part numbers online or at your local auto part store.

   • 6

     Pull the lid back over to the air filter housing unit, and snap it in place. Reattach the clips to secure the lid.

How to Get a New Toyota Car Ignition Key

Replacing your car key used to be easy. Getting a duplicate key meant simply taking the key to a local store that offered key duplication services. For modern vehicles, the story is much different. Toyota, like many other car manufacturers, now depends on computer technology to provide added security features for its keyless entry remotes. Sure, you can replace the ignition key, but the car will not start or you will not be able to defeat the auto alarm without the companion microchip.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Car title
• Registration
• Proof of insurance

1. • 1

     Determine whether you need a replacement or duplicate key. If you lost all available original keys, go to Step 2. If you already have a key (and remote) and simply want to duplicate that key, proceed to Step 3.

   • 2

     Bring proof of ownership for the car key you must replace to either a Toyota dealership or a licensed locksmith. This may consist of one or all of the following documents: car title, registration and proof of insurance.

   • 3

     Write down your Toyota's unique vehicle identification number (VIN), usually found where the dash meets the front windshield. If the vehicle is not coming with you, make sure you also know the make and model.

   • 4

     Visit your local Toyota dealership or licensed locksmith. With the information from Steps 2 and 3, they will determine which key is appropriate for your Toyota and provide a replacement or duplicate.

Tips & Warnings

• If using a licensed locksmith, call first to confirm that he can service your Toyota make and model.

• Replacing transponder keys can be expensive. Shop around. Locksmiths or key replacement business websites may be a more affordable alternative to the Toyota dealership.

• According to Jose Hernandez, owner of Omega Locksmith Security Professionals in Chicago, "A Toyota made from 1998 to 2003 is a particular challenge because it requires the car's onboard computer to be physically removed for reprogramming a new key." If you are unfortunate enough to need a replacement key for any Toyota manufactured during these years, getting a replacement will take more time and be more costly.

• Don't attempt to circumvent the auto alarm or security features. Doing so could void your auto warranty and possibly damage your car.

How to Replace a 1994 Toyota Camry Power Steering Belt

On a 1994 Toyota Camry, the power steering can seem weak or non-existent if the belt wears considerably or breaks. Replacing the belt driving the power steering pump can be completed without removing the pump from the engine or removing other significant parts of the system. After the correct diagnosis that the belt is the culprit behind your suspected problem, replacing the belt can be accomplished in a relatively short amount of time with standard tools.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Socket set
• Drain pan
• Pliers

Suggest Edits

1. • 1

     Place a large container under the vehicle to catch the power steering fluid.

   • 2

     Remove the clamp from the fluid return hose and remove the hose from the power steering pump.

   • 3

     Remove the bolt holding the pressure line to the power steering pump. Once the bolt is removed, move the line away from the pump. The line has two sealing washers that need to be saved for installation of the line or replaced if they show signs of wear.

   • 4

     Loosen the adjuster bolt and pivot bolts on the pump. Once these bolts are loosened, the power steering pump can be moved slightly and the power steering belt can be removed.

   • 5

     Route the new belt and replace the two pivot bolts on the pump and tighten the adjuster.

   • 6

     Install the pressure line to the power steering pump, making sure to use the two sealing washers.

   • 7

     Install the fluid return hose back to the power steering pump using the clamp.

   • 8

     Fill up the power steering fluid reservoir with fluid.

How to Replace the Rotor in a Toyota Tacoma

If your Toyota Tacoma seems to be shaking and shuddering to a halt, chances are it's time to replace the rotors. Rotors don't need to be replaced often, but if they get worn down or warped from hard braking and can't be resurfaced, then they must be replaced. Luckily, the installation is simple and you can do it in your own garage.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. • 1

     Raise your Tacoma using jacks and jack stands. Block the wheels. Remove the first tire and wheel assembly.

   • 2

     Remove the caliper mounting bolts. Slide the caliper off of the old rotor being careful not to disconnect the brake line. Hang the caliper and attached brake line from the undercarriage of the vehicle using mechanic's wire.

   • 3

     Pull off the anti-squeal spring (if equipped) and then remove the brake pads. Now you can remove the old rotor and set it aside. Clean the area around the hub with a damp cloth to remove corrosion and debris.

   • 4

     Install the new rotor into the hub. Replace the brake pads, anti-squeal spring, caliper and mounting bolts with a torque wrench or an air ratchet with an appropriate adapter.

   • 5

     Make sure that the caliper boot isn't wedged before you replace the wheel assembly and tire. Repeat this process for each additional rotor.

   • 6

     Lower your Toyota, tighten and torque the lug nuts and then pump the brake until you get a firm pedal. Be sure to road test your Tundra to make sure the installation was successful.

How to Remove a Toyota Truck Caliper

Brake calipers

The brake calipers on a Toyota truck do the heavy lifting for the braking system. When you push on the pedal, the master cylinder pushes fluid to the calipers, causing the pistons to clamp down, which in turn applies the pads to the rotor, slowing down the truck as a result. Calipers can wear out over time, which necessitates a replacement. In this case, the project vehicle is a 2006 Toyota Tacoma, but the process is similar for other Toyota trucks, as well.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Jack
• Jack stands
• Tire iron
• Line wrench set
• Brake hose clamp
• 3/8-inch ratchet and socket set

1. • 1

     Use the jack to lift up the front of the vehicle, then set it on the jack stands. Be sure that the vehicle is completely and solidly on the stands prior to working on it. Take off the front wheels using the tire iron and set them out of the work area.

   • 2

     Clamp the brake line clamp tool onto the rubber brake line, towards where it connects to the caliper, then use a line wrench to remove the brake line from the caliper.

   • 3

     Unbolt the brake caliper from the mounting bracket on the front suspension using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Lift the caliper off of the bracket and set it to the side.

How to Replace Battery Cables in a Toyota Tundra

You may need to replace the battery cables if your Toyota Tundra isn't starting up properly. Lift the hood and check the connections and the cables for wear and corrosion. Replacing the cables is pretty simple. Turn off the truck and set the parking brake before working on the battery cables.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Box wrench or cable pliers
• Wire brush or cable cleaner
• Clean cloth
• Battery cables

1. • 1

     Locate the battery on the driver's side just behind the headlight. Use a step stool to get in a good position to easily replace the cables if it's too high to reach on the Toyota Tundra.

   • 2

     Loosen the bolt on the black negative battery cable first with a box wrench or cable clamp pliers. Wriggle the cable end off the post. Repeat the process on the red positive cable. Always disconnect both battery cables, even if you're only replacing one of them, to prevent a short in the electrical system.

   • 3

     Follow the negative cable to where it's grounded on the front of the frame beside the headlight assembly. Remove the end of the cable with the wrench. Track the positive cable to its connection on the starter solenoid on the driver's side of the engine and remove it with the wrench.

   • 4

     Clean the posts with a small wire brush or cable cleaner. Wipe off residual dust or cleaner with a clean, dry cloth.

   • 5

     Attach the new positive cable first, reversing the process in Step 3. Reattach the negative cable last and start the truck to ensure the connections are working on your Toyota Tundra.

Tips & Warnings

• After attaching the new battery cables, you'll need to reset your clock and reprogram your radio presets, if your truck has these options.

• Always make sure the cables are tight at the battery, engine block and starter.

How to Replace a 2003 Toyota 4Runner Serpentine Belt

While the 2003 Toyota 4Runner came with several different engine options, the 4.0-liter and the 4.7-liter engines are the only two that use a serpentine belt to drive all the accessory pulleys. The process for changing the serpentine belt on both engines is identical; the only difference is the location of the pulleys and belt tensioner. Serpentine belts are available through Toyota or auto parts stores.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Wrench set
• Socket set
• Ratchet
• Replacement serpentine belt

1. • 1

     Open the hood of the 4Runner. Locate the negative battery cable on the battery, and remove the mounting bolt with a wrench. Remove the negative cable and set it aside, isolating it from the battery while you work.

   • 2

     Locate the serpentine belt automatic tensioner on the front of the engine. The tensioner is a spring-loaded arm with an idler pulley on the end of it. It applies the proper amount of tension to the serpentine belt, keeping it tight on all the pulleys.

   • 3

     Place a socket and ratchet on the mounting bolt in the center of the tensioner's idler pulley. Turn the ratchet counterclockwise, releasing the tension on the belt. Remove the belt from the pulleys.

   • 4

     Slowly turn the ratchet on the tensioner clockwise, allowing the tensioner to return to its free arm or home position. Install a new serpentine belt onto all the pulleys except the tensioner.

   • 5

     Rotate the tensioner counterclockwise with your ratchet, and slide the new belt on to the idler pulley. Turn the ratchet clockwise, allowing the tensioner to tighten the new belt as you go. Remove the socket and ratchet from the idler mounting bolt.

   • 6

     Check the belt, making sure that the ribs on the belt and all the pulleys align correctly. An incorrectly installed serpentine belt can damage the accessories, the belt or the pulleys.

   • 7

     Connect the negative battery cable to the negative battery terminal, and install the retaining bolt. Tighten the bolt with a socket and ratchet or wrench. Start your 4Runner and visually verify that the belt is running true over the pulleys.

How to Replace a Toyota Camry Oxygen Sensor

If the gas mileage for your Camry has plummeted and the check engine light has recently turned on, there's a chance that your one or more of the oxygen sensors may need to be replaced. These sensors are on the exhaust manifolds, making them accessible from the top of the car, and can be swapped out with new models within 30 minutes. In this case, the project vehicle is a 2006 Toyota Camry, but the process is similar for other vehicles as well.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Oxygen sensor wrench
• Replacement oxygen sensor
• Anti-seize compound

1. • 1

     Pop the hood and locate the oxygen sensor on the exhaust manifold. The exhaust manifold leads to the exhaust, and the oxygen sensor is the only thing on the exhaust with wires leading out of it. Unplug the harness from the oxygen sensor using your hands.

   • 2

     Use the oxygen sensor wrench to remove the sensor from the exhaust manifold. Discard the old sensor, as it won't be reused.

   • 3

     Put a thin coat of the anti-seize compound onto the threads of the replacement sensor, taking care not to get anything on the sensor itself.

   • 4

     Install the replacement sensor on the exhaust manifold with the oxygen sensor wrench, then plug the sensor into the stock wiring.

How to Troubleshoot a Toyota 4Runner A/C

The A/C in your Toyota 4Runner cools the passenger cabin using compressed refrigerant. This refrigerant is compressed using a compressor called an "A/C Compressor." The compressor is driven by an accessory belt. If any one of these components is malfunctioning or broken, the A/C system will not work. Replacement A/C parts can be purchased from most auto parts stores. But, before you start replacing parts, you should troubleshoot your Toyota 4Runner's A/C.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Open the hood and check the accessory belt that wraps around the A/C compressor pulley. The belt should not be frayed or damaged in any way.

   • 2

     Check for any peeling or chipping on the pulley belt teeth. Check for any glazing or "haze" on the belt. Any worn belt teeth or any damage to the belt indicates that the belt may be slipping and needs to be replaced.

   • 3

     Start the 4Runner's engine and wait until the water temperature gauge needle sits at or near the middle mark on the gauge. Turn the A/C blower on and set it to the coldest setting.

   • 4

     Check to see if there is any cold air blowing into the cabin. If there is no cold air, there is likely no refrigerant in the system. The most common leak on the 4Runner is at the A/C compressor, which should be serviced by a professional mechanic.

How to Lift My Two Wheel Drive Toyota Truck

Two-wheel drive Toyota trucks may have different jack-points than its four-wheel drive counterpart. Whenever you are thinking of raising your Toyota, always consult your owner's manual for the exact locations to place a jack. Not doing so could damage your Toyota, and even worse, it could injure anybody beneath the truck. As a safety issue, that also stretches beyond two wheel versus four-wheel drive. Generally, you should never get under a truck that's supported only by a hand cranking jack. The safest way to lift a Toyota, at home, involves jack stands or ramps.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Jack
• Stands
• Ramps
• Wheel blocks

1. • 1

     Ensure safety ahead of time. Pull up the emergency parking brake. Shift the gear into reverse if your Toyota is a standard, or shift the gear into park, if you own an automatic. Turn your Toyota truck off and remove the key from the ignition.

   • 2

     Select any tire to start with -- it does not matter which. If you begin lifting with the driver's side front tire, you will need to block off the passenger's side rear with wheel chocks.

   • 3

     Place your jack under the jack-point next to the wheel. Consult your manual for exactly where, as a Tacoma and a Tundra will not have these in the same location.

   • 4

     Turn the crank and lift the tire off the ground. Raise the tire high enough so that you can move a stand beneath the vehicle. Then, lower the truck onto the stand.

   • 5

     Remove the jack and repeat this process three more times, until the Toyota's four tires are off the ground and the vehicle is secure on a set of stands.

Tips & Warnings

• Ramps can substituted for stands in some cases. Once the truck's four wheels are safely on the ramps, block the tires off with wheel chocks. Yet, before you buy ramps or jack stands, locate your truck's weight specifications and make absolutely certain the equipment is suited for those specs. Some ramps and jacks are prefigured for cars, and not trucks.

• Always park on a level surface before lifting your Toyota.

How to Decode a Toyota Camry VIN Number

Decode a Toyota Camry VIN Number

The Toyota Camry is one of the best-selling vehicles in the United States. The Camry has been sold by Toyota since 1980. In 1981, federal law required all vehicles to be labeled with a 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The VIN contains important information regarding the assembly point, manufacturer and vehicle model.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Look at the first digit in your VIN. This digit specifies the country of assembly. Toyota Camrys sold in the United States are built in America or Japan. Those built in America will be marked with the numbers "1" or "4". Those built in Japan will start with a "J".

   • 2

     Look at the second digit in your VIN. This digit specifies the manufacturer of the vehicle. All Toyota vehicles, including the Camry, are manufactured by Toyota and will have a "T" as the second VIN digit.

   • 3

     Move on to digits 3 through 7, then digit 9. This series of digits is composed of an internal Toyota code specific to the options and equipment the vehicle has. The engine code, body style and safety features will be listed for your Camry. The coding changes from year to year.

   • 4

     Locate the eighth digit of your VIN. This digit specifies the particular car models. All Toyota Camrys will have a "K" in the eighth digit position. The Camry has used this digit since the introduction of the VIN system in 1981. Even Camry Hybrids are labeled with "K".

   • 5

     Move on to the tenth digit in your VIN. The tenth digit specifies the year model of the vehicle. A 2001 Camry will have a "1" in the tenth position. The numbers ascend until the 2010 model, when the alphabet will used, starting with "A" and moving in ascending order. Camrys built prior to 2001, use the second half of the alphabet, minus "Z". 2000 year model Camrys will have a "Y" as the tenth digit; 1999 models will have an "X".

   • 6

     Locate the eleventh digit of the VIN. This digit specifies the factory the Camry was built in. Camrys built in the United States are built in the Georgetown, Kentucky plant and labeled with a "U". Camrys built in Japan will have a numerical digit, instead of a letter.

   • 7

     Look at the final 6 digits of the VIN. Digits 12 through 17 indicate a model code for the Camry. A Camry with ending digits of "000005", was the fifth Camry produced for that year model. The last six digits are similar to a counter and move in ascending order. Vehicles built in Japan are not on the same count as those built in America.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep practicing to learn the meaning behind each of the 17 VIN digits. Once you learn them, you may be able to decipher the VIN on almost any vehicle.

How to Troubleshoot a '92 Toyota 22Re Throttle Position Sensor

Use your digital multimeter to troubleshoot your '92 Toyota 22Re throttle position sensor.

The throttle position sensor, or TPS, in the 22Re engine of your 1992 Toyota sends voltage signals to the engine computer to determine the angle position of the throttle plate inside the throttle body. Depending on the voltage signal from the TPS, the 22Re computer adjusts fuel volume delivery for better engine efficiency. If you suspect problems with the TP sensor, you can troubleshoot it at home without special equipment. This will help you diagnose a possible bad throttle sensor and save yourself in engine repairs costs.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Phillips screwdriver
• 0.0224-inch (0.57mm) feeler gauge
• Digital multimeter
• 0.0335-inch (0.85mm) feeler gauge

1. • 1

     Open the hood of your Toyota and locate the TP sensor. The sensor is a small, flat and rounded component with a four-wire electrical connector attached to it. It is secured to one side of the throttle body with two small screws. The air cleaner assembly, which houses the air filter, attaches to the throttle body towards the top center and rear of the engine compartment.

   • 2

     Remove the air cleaner assembly using a Phillips screwdriver.

   • 3

     Unplug the TPS electrical connector.

   • 4

     Locate the throttle linkage mechanism on one side of the throttle body. This mechanism connects to the accelerator pedal by a long cable.

   • 5

     Rotate the throttle linkage mechanism with your hand and see how the lever on the mechanism that hits a stop screw when you release it. As you rotate the mechanism, you will see the throttle plate rotating as well at the opening of the throttle body.

   • 6

     Insert a 0.0224-inch (0.57mm) feeler gauge between the throttle linkage lever and the stop screw.

   • 7

     Set your digital multimeter to the lowest setting on the Ohm's scale. Turn on the meter and touch the meter probes to the two lowest pin connectors on the TPS electrical connector. The display on your meter should register 0.0 or a similar low resistance value. Otherwise, you need to replace the TP sensor.

   • 8

     Replace the feeler gauge you inserted between the throttle linkage lever and the stop screw with a 0.0335-inch (0.85mm) feeler gauge.

   • 9

     Touch the two lowest pin connectors on the TPS electrical connector with the two meter probes again. Now, the display on your meter should show a blank screen or infinite resistance. Otherwise, you need to replace the TP sensor.

   • 10

     Turn off your digital multimeter. Plug in the TP sensor, replace the air cleaner assembly using the Phillips screwdriver and close the hood.

How to Service Toyota Mass Airflow Sensors

The Toyota mass airflow sensor uses a pair of specially coated wires that change resistance as they are cooled by air flowing through the sensor. One wire stays at a constant current and the other is at a constant resistance, and the difference between the two is used to calculate total air mass entering the engine. This, along with other load sensors, is used to calculate the needed fuel. Over time the sensor can get a buildup of contaminates that act to insulate the wires. You must clean this off to maintain accuracy; it is a common service on Toyota mass airflow sensors.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Screwdriver set
• Mass airflow sensor cleaner

1. • 1

     Remove the sensor by first removing the flexible bellows attaching the air box to the throttle body. Loosen the clamps with a screwdriver, then slip the bellows off the air box and the throttle body.

   • 2

     Remove the lid from the air box by releasing the hold-down clips and lifting up. Disconnect the electrical connector from the mass airflow sensor, and move the assembly to a work bench.

   • 3

     Pull out the two retaining screws from the sensor, and carefully remove the sensor from the air box. Take care not to damage the sensor. Put the rubber O-ring seal in a safe place until you have reinstalled the sensor.

   • 4

     Clean the sensor with mass airflow sensor cleaner. Use only a cleaner formulated for mass airflow sensors; common carburetor spray will damage the coating on the wires.

   • 5

     Reinstall the sensor into the air box, and install the air box into the Toyota. Plug the electrical connector into the sensor, and reinstall the bellows that you removed in Step 1. Start the engine and test-drive the vehicle.

How to Install a Trailer Hitch on a Toyota Prius (for a Bike Rack)

A hitch-mounted bike rack is one of the best options for Prius owners who want to enjoy unfettered access to the hatchback. While you won't want to use your Prius to haul a trailer, there are several hitch-style bike racks (and ski racks) to choose from once you get the trailer hitch installed. If you go to the Toyota Dealer they'll charge you around $800. to install a trailer hitch. You can do it yourself with a few tools and about an hour of your time.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• A trailer hitch that will fit the Prius. Two aftermarket brands fit the Prius: The Curt Model 11468 (NOT the older 11470 which caused the bumper to melt!) and the Coastal Electronic Electronics Model
• Hex Wrench for M10-1.25 X35 bolts
• Scissors and/or matte knife to trim the plastic underbody facia

1. • 1

     First, remove both tow hooks. Using a hex wrench, unbolt and remove the tow hooks from the underbody frame rails at the rear of the Prius on both the driver's and passenger's sides.

   • 2

     Remove plastic under body facia on driver's side, saving the hardware for the reinstall later.

   • 3
     Hitch installation diagram (from Curt Manufacturing)

     Lift hitch into position under the car and secure with M10 bolts and washers provided with the hitch. Tighten the bolts.

   • 4
     Enlarge tow hook slot in facia on driver's side.

     Using a scissors or matte knife enlarge tow hook slot in the plastic facia before you reattach it to under body on the driver's side. Extend the the slot all the way to the back edge of the facia and remove this small segment of the facia. Now the facia will fit around driver's side of the newly installed hitch. There is no facia on the passenger side to worry about.

   • 5
     Completed hitch installation as seen from under rear driver's side of a Prius.

     Reinstall the under body facia with the existing hardware you set aside in Step 2. You're now ready to install your hitch-style bike rack or ski rack according to the manufacturer's instructions. The Curt hitch will take either a 2" or 1 1/4" rack mount.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a set of tire ramps to make it easier to get under the car.

• This installation is for the Curt Model 11468 ONLY. This hitch allows for free access of the hatchback door even when the bike rack is in the up position and even when bikes are mounted on the rack.

• Always set your emergency brake when working under a car.

How to Tow a Toyota Tacoma

You can tow your Tacoma without the help of a professional tower.

Towing is sometimes necessary in difficult situations in which your vehicle cannot operate under its own power. Whether you are towing your Toyota Tacoma because it is inoperable, or you are moving and do not have enough drivers for your vehicles, proper tow procedure must be followed to prevent accidents on the roadways or harm to your truck. Never tow your Toyota Tacoma using an unsafe method. Merely connecting a chain between your Tacoma and the tow vehicle is a gamble you could regret.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Tow dolly
• Towing vehicle

1. • 1

     Rent or buy a tow dolly from a moving or department store. If you do not plan to tow much in the future, it might be more cost-effective to rent. Typically, you must pay a deposit or provide a credit card number for the dolly and pay a small rental fee. You can rent towing lights for an additional charge or for no fee depending on the retailer.

   • 2

     Connect the dolly to the back of your towing vehicle via the trailer hitch. Tow dollies are relatively light and can be maneuvered by holding the connector end and rolling the device via its wheels. Secure the tow dolly to the hitch ball, and lock the mechanism in place.

   • 3

     Drive the towing vehicle to the Tacoma, and position the dolly directly in front of the truck. The dolly should be no more than five or 10 feet from the Tacoma.

   • 4

     Drive the Tacoma onto the towing dolly so the front wheels sit in the divots of the device. If the Tacoma is not running, shift the truck into neutral, and push the truck into place using the help of several other people. Set the parking brake.

   • 5

     Place the dolly straps around the front wheels of the Tacoma, and tighten the straps until they rest firmly on the tire's rubber. Lock both dolly straps.

   • 6

     Open the door of your Tacoma, locate the center console, and insert the Tacoma's key into the "Transmission Lock" slot. You can now shift the transmission into neutral. If the vehicle has a manual transmission, set the gear stick into neutral. Release the parking brake. If your transmission is not in neutral, you risk destroying both your Tacoma's engine and transmission.

   • 7

     Plug the trailer lights into the back of your towing vehicle's tow plug. Set the lights on top of the Tacoma.

How to Charge a Toyota Prius Battery

The lead-acid battery in a Toyota Prius can be charged with a battery charger.

Flag this photo

The Toyota Prius is a hybrid vehicle and, as such, has two types of batteries. The first battery is the one most typically found in cars, a lead-acid 12V. The second battery is specifically for hybrids. In the Prius, the second battery is a Panasonic Metal Case Prismatic Module. Only the lead-acid requires charging as the other battery charges from the generator.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Battery charger or jumper cables

Suggest Edits

1. • 1

     Open the hood of the Toyota Prius. From the inside of the car, the hood can be unlatched by pulling on the small handle underneath the steering wheel on the bottom left. Once the hood is opened, hold it in place by hooking the rod into the hole that is on the side of the hood.

   • 2

     Open the plastic cover of the battery. The battery is located at the top right side of the engine. Once open, remove the plastic piece that covers the battery port.

   • 3

     Hook the jumper cables or the battery charger to the battery. The negative cable is typically all black and needs to be connected to the negative port of the car battery by clipping it on. The positive cable is typically white or red and will be hooked onto the positive port. If using jumper cables and connecting to another car, the black cable on the other side will go to the other vehicles' negative port and the red or white will clip onto the positive port.

   • 4

     Turn the car on. Press on the accelerator slightly.

   • 5

     Unclip the jumper cables and drive the vehicle around 20 to 30 minutes to allow it time to recharge. If using a battery charger, leave the battery charger connected to the battery overnight.

How to Pull Computer Codes for a Toyota Previa

Write down the trouble codes from your Previa after using an OBD scanner.

You can pull the computer codes from your Toyota Previa right from your home garage, saving yourself time and money. To read the codes you will need to buy an OBD code scanner. These handheld computerized devices are available at most auto parts stores. The scanner reads computer codes which are stored in the vehicle's On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) computer. Each code tells you information about the Toyota to help you troubleshoot the problems.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• OBD code scanner
• Ignition key
• Pencil and paper
• Scanner manual

1. • 1

     Find a port on the driver's side of the vehicle near the steering column. This port looks the same as the connective end on the OBD code scanner. Plug the OBD code scanner into the port.

   • 2

     Put the key into the ignition and turn it to the "II" position, taking care not to start the engine. This should power on your scanner. If not, find an "on/off" switch on the scanner and press it on.

   • 3

     Select the "Retrieve Codes" command on the scanner. Wait for the scanner to show you the trouble codes and write them down on a piece of paper. Look up these alphanumeric codes in the scanner's manual.

   • 4

     Unplug the OBD code scanner from the port. Take the Previa to be serviced or repaired based on the trouble codes you retrieved.

Tips & Warnings

• Most auto parts stores will loan their customers a scan tool for free to diagnose the trouble codes.