FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/Camry/Seventh Generation (2012-2017)/why does my Toyota Camry's check engine light keep coming back on

why does my Toyota Camry's check engine light keep coming back on

Toyota Camry Seventh Generation (2012-2017)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
535 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix the recurring check engine light issue in your Toyota Camry. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before handling components to avoid burns.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Engine may run rough or idle inconsistently
  • •Decreased fuel economy
  • •Possible loss of power during acceleration
  • •Increased emissions
  • •Engine stalling at idle or under load

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify any stored trouble codes.
  2. 2Record and analyze the error codes to determine the specific issues that are triggering the check engine light.
  3. 3Inspect the gas cap for a proper seal and any signs of damage, as a loose cap can trigger the light.
  4. 4Check the engine's air intake system for leaks or blockages, including the air filter.
  5. 5Examine the ignition system components (spark plugs, ignition coils) for wear or failure.
  6. 6Test the fuel system for pressure and leaks, including the fuel pump and fuel injectors.
  7. 7Inspect exhaust system components, particularly the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors, for malfunctions.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
  • Disconnect the battery to ensure safety during repairs.

2. Repair Identified Issues

A. Replace Faulty Components

  1. Ignition System:

    • Remove the spark plugs using a socket set.
    • Inspect and replace any worn spark plugs, ensuring the gap is set to manufacturer specifications.
    • If ignition coils are defective, remove and replace as necessary.
  2. Fuel System:

    • If the fuel pressure is low, replace the fuel pump.
    • Remove the fuel tank to access the pump if required, following proper safety protocols for fuel handling.
    • Test and replace any faulty fuel injectors.
  3. Exhaust System:

    • If the catalytic converter is clogged or damaged, remove it using a wrench set.
    • Install a new catalytic converter, ensuring all exhaust gaskets are replaced to prevent leaks.
    • Replace faulty oxygen sensors by unscrewing them and installing new units.

3. Reconnect Battery and Clear Codes

  • Reconnect the battery terminals securely.
  • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the error codes from the vehicle's computer.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Socket set
  • Wrench set
  • Torque wrench

Parts Required

  • Spark plugs
  • Ignition coils (if necessary)
  • Fuel pump (if necessary)
  • Fuel injectors (if necessary)
  • Catalytic converter (if necessary)
  • Oxygen sensors (if necessary)

Additional Information

Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

4 items

Parts

6 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to diagnose the check engine light in my Toyota Camry Seventh Generation (2012-2017)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the check engine light issue in your Toyota Camry (2012-2017). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair ...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Reduced engine performance or power
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix the passenger side window not working in Toyota Camry Seventh Generation (2012-2017)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the passenger side window not working in a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and rep...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Passenger side window does not respond to switch input
    • •Window motor makes no sound when the switch is activated
    • +{count} more
  3. how to fix the navigation system not responding in Toyota Camry Seventh Generation (2012-2017)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the unresponsive navigation system in Toyota Camry (2012-2017). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solutions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Navigation screen is unresponsive to touch
    • •GPS signal not found or unavailable message
    • +{count} more
  4. how to reset the tire pressure light on Toyota Camry Seventh Generation (2012-2017)

    Learn how to reset the tire pressure light on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and safety tips included.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Tire pressure warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Incorrect tire pressure readings displayed
    • +{count} more
  5. how to reset the maintenance light on Toyota Camry Seventh Generation (2012-2017)

    Learn how to reset the maintenance light on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and verification instructions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Maintenance light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Reminder message appears on the display
    • +{count} more
  6. how to troubleshoot power windows not working on Toyota Camry Seventh Generation (2012-2017)

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix power windows not working on Toyota Camry (2012-2017). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and repair instructi...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Power window switches are unresponsive
    • •No sound when pressing the window switch
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation