Check For Intermittent Problems

2004 Toyota Matrix XR, FWD, StandardSECTION Check For Intermittent Problems
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Toyota Prius. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. CHECK FOR INTERMITTENT PROBLEMS 

    HINT:

    A momentary interruption (open circuit) in the connectors and or wire harness between the sensors and ECUs can be detected in the ECU data monitor function of the hand-held tester.

    1. Turn the power switch off and connect the hand-held tester to the DLC3.
    2. Turn the ignition switch on. Follow the on-screen directions on the hand-held tester to display the DATA LIST and select areas where momentary interruption should be monitored.

      HINT:

      A momentary interruption (open circuit) cannot be detected for 3 seconds after the ignition switch is turned on (initial check).

      Fig 1: Checking For Intermittent Problem Hand-held Tester
      G02918089Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
      INTERMITTENT PROBLEMS

      Item Measurement Item Range (Display) Normal Condition
      SPDSEN FR FR speed sensor open detection OPEN or NORMAL NORMAL: Normal condition
      SPDSEN FL FL speed sensor open detection OPEN or NORMAL NORMAL: Normal condition
      SPD SEN RR RR speed sensor open detection OPEN or NORMAL NORMAL: Normal condition
      SPD SEN RL RL speed sensor open detection OPEN or NORMAL NORMAL: Normal condition
      TAWRATE SEN Yaw rate sensor open detection NORMAL: Normal condition
      DECELE SEN G sensor open detection NORMAL: Normal condition
      STEERING SEN Steering sensor open detection NORMAL: Normal condition
      M C SEN 1 Master Cylinder pressure sensor 1 open detection NORMAL: Normal condition
      M C SEN 2 Master Cylinder pressure sensor 1 open detection NORMAL: Normal condition
      STROKE SEN 1 Pedal stroke 1 open NORMAL: Normal condition
      FR W C SEN FR Wheel cylinder open NORMAL: Normal condition
      FL W/C SEN FR Wheel cylinder open NORMAL: Normal condition
      RR W/C SEN FR Wheel cylinder open NORMAL: Normal condition
      RL W/C SEN FR Wheel cylinder open NORMAL: Normal condition
      Item Measurement Item Range (Display) Normal Condition
      HVCOM HV communication open detection NORMAL: Normal condition
      ACC SEN Accumulator pressure sensor open detection NORMAL: Normal condition

      HINT:

      • If the status remains on, check the continuity between the ECU and the sensors, or between ECUs.
      • The OPEN display on the hand-held tester remains on for 1 second after the harness signal changes from momentary interruption (open circuit) to normal condition.
        Fig 2: Harness Signals
        G02918090Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    3. While observing the screen, gently jiggle the connector or wire harness between the ECU and sensors, or between ECUs.
    1. Result: Open-screen display does not change. 

    HINT:

    • The connector and or wire harness will be in momentary interruption (open circuit) if the chart fluctuates. Repair or replace connector and or wire harness as one of them is faulty.
    Fig 3: Replacing Connector Or Wire Harness
    G02918091Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

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.