QuestionI have a 2001 Corolla with 102,000 miles (mostly highway). I haven't had any major problems and had the Toyota dealer do my 90,000 checkup and had the plugs changed.
I've noticed that when there is any load on the engine (like going uphill on 270), the engine is pinging quite a bit. I can't pin point exactly when this started, but I first noticed it a few months ago. It may have started earlier, but typically between the road/wind noise, and the radio, I wouldn't have noticed it.
I also have poor power when I am trying to accelerate uphill, even when I'm the only one in the car (155lbs).
What is going on and what options should I consider to fix it besides using higher octane gasoline?
Thanks.
Eric
AnswerI'm assuming that there is no check engine light on, is this correct?
I recommend that you have the Toyota dealer check the EFI system for any pending trouble codes in the computer, if there are no codes logged it is a mechanical problem, possibly excessive carbon builtup in the combustion chambers, remember that the timing is adjusted by the computer, there is also a knock sensor that will retard the timing if there is preignition.
