Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1996 Toyota Tercel DX, 4D Sedan, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Diagnosis & Repair
- Access ECM behind glove box. Disconnect ECM E7 connector. See Figure. Backprobing ECM connector, measure resistance between ground and terminal No. 8 (Black wire) at ECM E7 connector. If resistance is infinity, go to step 3). If resistance is not infinity, go to next step.
- Disconnect knock sensor connector. Check continuity between sensor terminal and sensor housing. If continuity does not exist, go next step. If continuity exists, replace sensor.
- Check for an open or short circuit in wiring harness between knock sensor and ECM. See appropriate wiring diagram in WIRING DIAGRAMS article. Repair as necessary. If circuit is okay, substitute knock sensor with known-good sensor. Clear codes. See SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM. Start and warm engine to normal operating temperature. Retrieve codes. See SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM . If code is still present, replace ECM. If code is no longer present, replace sensor.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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