1990 Toyota MR2 missing, cutting out and failing to start

Car: Toyota MR2
Year: 1990
Variant: 2.0 GT

Categories: Running Rough, Starting & Power Loss

A few days ago my car ran out of fuel.

The gauge wasn’t on ‘empty’ but was quite low and I was parked facing steep downhill, running the engine, trying to bleed the cooling system.

The engine cut and wouldn’t start so I put a gallon in and it started and drove home fine.

Yesterday in the pouring rain it started missing and cut out. It took ages to get it started and then it coughed and missed all the way home until the engine warmed up and it seemed ok.

I haven’t tried it since.

Would it be a good idea to change the fuel filter in case it’s blocked with sediment?

Do I need to bleed the fuel system?

The car has never failed to start or missed a beat in 15k before this.

Cheers

Posted: Feb 14, 2011 (13 years ago)

Rmar

Points: 148

If not been done at any time , wouldn't do any harm .The engine missing could have been caused by dampness due to the heavy rain getting on electrics and then cleared when dried out with engine heat . This might help you ,

http://www.padandwheels.com/mr2/fuelfilter/fuelfilter.html

All the best .

Posted Feb 14, 2011 (13 years ago)

whittingehame

Points: 37,708

Thanks Whittingehame. I heard that diesels need to be bled if they run out of fuel. Is this the case with some petrol cars (ie MR2's) too?

Posted Feb 14, 2011 (13 years ago)

Rmar

Points: 148

Normally o.k and self prime when switched on .

Posted Feb 14, 2011 (13 years ago)

whittingehame

Points: 37,708

Just a thought , fuel blockages dont normally cause misfires etc. Usually lack of power or flat spots .