Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common reason for check engine light on a 1997 Toyota Land Cruiser?

• Oxygen (O2) sensor failures are common and cause poor fuel economy and rough idle; replacement typically restores performance.
• Engine misfires (ignition coil, spark plug, or injector issues) trigger codes P0300–P0306 and can damage the catalytic converter if left unchecked.
• Evaporative emissions system leaks (loose or damaged gas cap, EVAP canister issues) often set codes and are usually inexpensive to fix.
• Catalytic converter degradation (P0420) can follow untreated misfires and O2 sensor failures and leads to much higher repair costs.
• Our factory-trained technicians at Nalley Toyota of Roswell diagnose these quickly with OEM tools and recommend repairs that save money over time.

What does it mean when the check engine light comes on in a 1997 Toyota Land Cruiser?

• It indicates the engine control module has detected a fault — severity ranges from minor (loose gas cap) to critical (engine misfire).
• A steady light usually means a fault is present but not immediately catastrophic; it still deserves prompt diagnostic attention.
• A flashing light signals active misfires and immediate risk to the catalytic converter and engine internals — stop driving and get service right away.
• Scan codes with an OBD-II tool to pinpoint the system affected; our dealership uses Toyota-specific diagnostics for accurate results.
• Repairs covered under warranty must be performed at a certified dealership to preserve coverage and ensure correct parts and labor.

What is the first thing to check when the check engine light comes on?

• Confirm the gas cap is tight and undamaged — a loose cap is an easy fix and a common EVAP-related trigger.
• Check for obvious signs: low fluids, battery connections, or unusual noises; these quick checks guide next steps.
• Use a code reader or visit our service department for a full diagnostic scan to reveal the stored trouble codes.
• If the light is flashing, avoid driving and have the vehicle inspected immediately to prevent catalytic converter damage.
• At Nalley Toyota of Roswell we provide fast scans, clear next steps, and explain immediate and long-term cost savings from prompt, certified repairs.

How much does a check engine light diagnostic cost for a 1997 Toyota Land Cruiser?

• Typical diagnostic fees range from about $80 to $150 depending on the depth of testing; some repairs will be quoted separately after diagnosis.
• At Nalley Toyota of Roswell our pricing is competitive and often costs less than independent shops once you factor in accurate diagnosis, OEM parts, and fewer repeat repairs.
• Immediate savings come from fixing the root cause quickly; long-term savings come from avoiding secondary damage (like catalytic converter failure).
• If a repair is covered under warranty, it must be completed at a certified dealership to maintain that coverage and ensure OEM parts are used.
• We provide transparent estimates and explain options so you understand both upfront costs and lifetime value.

How long does a check engine light service take?

• Basic code retrieval and a preliminary inspection typically take 20–45 minutes; more involved diagnostics can take 1–2 hours.
• Repairs vary: simple fixes (gas cap, sensor swaps) often complete the same day; complex repairs (engine or exhaust work) may require parts and additional time.
• Our dealership schedules work efficiently using Toyota-specific tools and factory-trained technicians to minimize downtime.
• Choosing Nalley Toyota of Roswell can save time and money overall — accurate diagnosis reduces repeat visits and prevents costly downstream failures.
• Warranty repairs must be completed at a certified dealership to preserve coverage and guarantee correct repair procedures and parts.