Fake Toyota Part Fail Warning

When a DIY Repair Failed Because of a Faulty New Part

One of the lessons we’ve discussed in the past is that sometimes the correct repair is done, but the owner or mechanic is still left with a problem that won’t resolve itself when it should. Or is resolved, but reappears shortly afterward. In some cases, this is due to using an inferior aftermarket or counterfeit part to save money.

Related article: Fake Online Parts Get DIY Mechanics in Trouble

That was the message in a recent Toyota Maintenance YouTube channel episode where a DIY mechanic/Toyota owner did everything right in diagnosing an evaporative system error code, only to find that the repair was not resolved after replacing the old part with a new part, which then began to lead him down the wrong direction with his DIY repair.

Related article: Common Car Maintenance Mistake Owners Make When Diagnosing Their Car’s Engine Problems

Fortunately, the owner took his problem to a Toyota mechanic to see where he went wrong with the diagnosis and repair only to find out the fault wasn’t his, but that of a counterfeit part he used.

The Value of This Video

Follow along with the host as he discusses the repair and explains why something as simple as a replacement gas cap can cause problems for your vehicle. In addition, you will learn about ways to approach an Evap system error code, what the Evap system does, why even the smallest leak can cause problems, and how to go about testing for it---provided you have a scan tool that includes emissions testing features.

Another added value is a look at the undercarriage of a Toyota 4Runner where the host points out potential rust trouble spots you should look for while maintaining your 4Runner or when shopping for a used one.

Good Mechanic + Bad Parts = VERY Bad Situation | Toyota Evap System Problems

And finally…

For additional articles related to Toyota vehicles and Toyota 4Runners, here are a few for your consideration:

• Avoid This High-Performance Parts Scam on Your Toyota

• Used Toyota 4Runner Walk Around Demo

• Best Year of Toyota 4Runner Recommended by This Toyota Mechanic

Timothy Boyer is Torque News automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites for daily new and used vehicle news.

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