Need some help with 90 corolla

[lamal3]

I've just got my alternator replaced not long ago, in fact like a month ago. My car is running fine most of the time, but just recently, about 3 weeks ago I had troubles with it. It's like whenever I start the car the very next day and begin driving it, I'll notice as if my car isn't smooth when I apply the gas peddle. It's as if there is something stuck in the engine or more or less the car is hesitant to move ( Kinda like it's choking ). I have no idea what is causing this problem. This problem goes away afterwards when I drive the car for a good 5 or 10 minutes. This can't be good for the car. I do notice that if I park my car like parallel to the ground that it won't have this problem occur. It does however happen when I'm parked like on a slant/small hill (my driveway has a steep hill, not very steep). Can anybody help me on this problem? Could it be something is loose?

[lamal3]

ANybody know what the problem is with my car? I need some help..

[TekPhobia]

Originally Posted by lamal3

I've just got my alternator replaced not long ago, in fact like a month ago. My car is running fine most of the time, but just recently, about 3 weeks ago I had troubles with it. It's like whenever I start the car the very next day and begin driving it, I'll notice as if my car isn't smooth when I apply the gas peddle. It's as if there is something stuck in the engine or more or less the car is hesitant to move ( Kinda like it's choking ). I have no idea what is causing this problem. This problem goes away afterwards when I drive the car for a good 5 or 10 minutes. This can't be good for the car. I do notice that if I park my car like parallel to the ground that it won't have this problem occur. It does however happen when I'm parked like on a slant/small hill (my driveway has a steep hill, not very steep). Can anybody help me on this problem? Could it be something is loose?

Have you done a tune-up recently? Check plugs, air filter, fuel filter, etc? Attack those first, and if it still hesitates, come back...

-Tim

[lamal3]

As I recall, I've had my oil changed, brakes done, automatic transmission done, radiator fluid changed, alternator done, and tires replaced.
I noticed that when I press on the gas the car isn't transferring enough power. I get a little jolt when this happens. Maybe it has something to do with the cylinders? I'm not a car expert, but this is all i could think of.

[Toyota91]

When ever you start up your car for the first time in the morning, you should let it warm up for a good 3 mins at least. Only when the RPM drops to about 700 rpm, should you start driving the car. Otherwise your engine parts haven't been lubed yet and for old cars this is a problem. But I find that when you leave it on for a while and let the rpm drop, the car runs smooth and has a lot of power.

Hope this helps.

[lamal3]

Do you guys suppose that maybe a fuel system clean up would help fix this problem? I don't remember the last time I had one done. Could this fix fix my problem? When should I have a fuel system clean up done? once a year? twice a year?

[Miguel De Imagrent]

if it has the california smog package it might be a clogged egr valve, also check the throttle body plate to see if it is clogged or stuck. let me know if it helps.

[lamal3]

Originally Posted by Miguel De Imagrent

if it has the california smog package it might be a clogged egr valve, also check the throttle body plate to see if it is clogged or stuck. let me know if it helps.

What exactly is the california smog package? Could you tell me what this is? I'm actually not like a car expert so I wouldn't know where the throttle body plate is. If you could please tell me where I would look for this? What should I do or check if I find it? How do I know if it is working properly or not?

Thanks

[garryconn]

when was the last time you replaced fuel filter... this could play a part in your troubles as well... maybe not 100% the problem but if it has not been changed I am sure that it holds some weight towards your trouble.

[lamal3]

how much does a fuel filter cost? Is it expensive and is it really easy to install?

[Toyrolla]

Originally Posted by lamal3

As I recall, I've had my oil changed, brakes done, automatic transmission done, radiator fluid changed, alternator done, and tires replaced.
I noticed that when I press on the gas the car isn't transferring enough power. I get a little jolt when this happens. Maybe it has something to do with the cylinders? I'm not a car expert, but this is all i could think of.

I believe what TekPhobia was pointing out in his post was something that you may have overlooked, and that is your plugs.

The work you had done was only part of the maintenance required for proper operation. Tek mentioned plugs, and I will graciously add to that by emphasizing that you should also be changing your wires and the distributor rotor and cap as well. This is to maintain enough spark to produce combustion in each cylinder.

The fuel filter should be changed. The price for the filter can range from $15-$35, depending on whether you get it at a retail auto store (Pep Boys, Advance Auto) or from the dealer.

Pic of fuel filter:



Changing the fuel filter can be done after the car sits overnight, allowing the pressure to come down. All you do is carefully remove the lines and reconnect them the same way on the new filter.


Good luck...