Idle issue/Wgtn Mechanic

[Izzy]

Hi, i’m having some trouble with my MR2/finding someone to fix it. It’s currently cranking over to start but won’t hold idle even when revving it just dies after a few seconds so obviously not drivable. I had a mechanic come to look at it and he thinks it could be the fuel pump or distributor but wasn’t too sure and couldn’t find anything using his diagnostics and he doesn’t live close, so i’m thinking i will need to get it towed somewhere (hopefully close by) -Has anyone had a similar issue or know of any mechanics with experience working on MR2s in the lower hutt/wellington area ?

[GDII]

Possibly an ECU issue? If the capacitors go bad the engines refuse to start or run well. They are getting old now so the capacitors are running out of life span.
If you can take the ECU out and lift the lid to check if there are any leaking.

A test for fuel pump would be jump the +B and FP pins in the diagnostic port in the rear right of the engine bay to force the pump to go. If you don't hear it then it might not be working. Sounds more like an ECU issue though.

The pins in the top left and bottom left. Get a wire that is a decent size and poke it in.
https://www.instagram.com/p/C0s-6ewyDbm/?img_index=1

[Izzy]

Hi,
Thank you for that ! I had a look yesterday and the Ecu looked pretty perfect no leaking or anything (looks pretty much brand new) Sounds like the fuel pump is working fine too so i’m pretty stumped ! Thanks for your suggestions though i think i’ll end up taking it somewhere for another check over

[GDII]

Just because the caps aren't physically leaking doesn't mean they aren't up to spec.
Unfortunately I don't have the tool to test them while they are still on the circuit board.

[Izzy]

Sorry for crazy late reply i ended up taking it to an electrical repair shop but they couldn’t find anything, after that I got it towed to a mechanic and it’s been there almost two weeks now trying to figure out the issue, just got news today they have figured out it’s an issue with the air mass sensor. The part is of course discontinued so just have to hunt for one now - might put a post up in the parts section

[GDII]

Ah yes, the dreaded AFM on the GEN2 3SGTE. They are a terrible unit.

LINK ECU? I know, an expensive way to fix a small problem but then you buy another AFM and it can still die on you were the LINK ECU will remove that component from the system forever.

[Izzy]

Yep i came across that when i was looking for a replacement part i’ll look into that further - thank you!

[GDII]

Turns out the flapper in the AFM was fully seized. This explains the symptoms. A replacement was bought. I had a look.over the old one and put in some lubricant and freed up the flapper. It should work but needs testing on a car.