gas cap = CEL (1 Viewer)

[jrock24]

So my 97 4runner had a CEL light pop up. I did some web research and found a common issue to cause it is a loose gas cap. So I tightened it down drove for a bit and it went off. Every now and then it would pop up again and I would do the same and it would go away.
So I decide to buy a new one from autozone specifically for my vehicle and it was Ok, then the light comes back. I tighten it down and it goes away, WTH?
Do I have to buy a OEM replacement?

 

[FJ40-GARAGE]

So my 97 4runner had a CEL light pop up. I did some web research and found a common issue to cause it is a loose gas cap. So I tightened it down drove for a bit and it went off. Every now and then it would pop up again and I would do the same and it would go away.
So I decide to buy a new one from autozone specifically for my vehicle and it was Ok, then the light comes back. I tighten it down and it goes away, WTH?
Do I have to buy a OEM replacement?

webfind

Also, if the code is faulty and it was your VSC that flipped the lights on accidentally, you can always reset your computer by unpluggin the neg battery terminal for 15 minutes and taking the EFI fuse out with it. This will reset the ECU. When this happens, if the Runner truly does have a problem it will throw the code again or it will simply disappear for good, because it was a fauly code.

Check Engine Light + VSC Lights ON - Toyota 4Runner Forum

 

[jrock24]

No VSC light, only the CEL.

 

[MikeBoyle]

Have you had the computer scanned to find out what the actual code is that is being set?

 

[IanB]

Have you had the computer scanned to find out what the actual code is that is being set?

X2, you could be on totally the wrong trail and never know it. Get the code scanned, and THEN start throwing parts at the problem once you know what it is, lol.

 

[raydouble]

I heard a rumor that the cel and vsc and trac light all come on if it's ignition related code.

Find out the code first and look it up.

You sound like you are going to end up with a new cap or maybe you can just get the o ring.

 

[TheDurk]

It's a '97. He doesn't have a VSC or TRAC light, does he? My '99 doesn't.

 

[raydouble]

It's a '97. He doesn't have a VSC or TRAC light, does he? My '99 doesn't.

Good point, I'm not sure.

A lot of times I forget they are not all like my 01'.

 

[TheDurk]

Good point, I'm not sure.

A lot of times I forget they are not all like my 01'.

Actually, '01 was the first year for the A-Trac system. Toyota 4Runner History 2001

You can find the link in this really neat FAQ sticky at the top of the forum.

 

[raydouble]

lol...oh yeah, I knew there was a reason I did that.