95 Geo Prizm (aka Toyota Corolla) engine issues…?
Question by broken_lies14: 95 Geo Prizm (aka Toyota Corolla) engine issues…?
I bought this car about 4 1/2 months ago and ever since I’ve had it I have had a strange knocking sound every time I turn the engine off. It knocks at least three to six times and then stops. I haven’t had any issues with it while driving but recently it won’t start when the ENGINE (not the weather temperature – I live in Phoenix and it’s not cold here by any means) is cold (generally if it hasn’t been run in three or so hours). I had the ignition system checked and everything (battery, alternator, and starter) is fine according to the people who ran the test. Once the car starts, though, it runs just fine. Today, I turned my car on and it started right away (despite not being run for almost a day) and when I shut off my car, instead of it making a knocking noise, it made a very strange “power down” noise (like when a robot shuts down in a movie) and also a grinding noise (almost like my flywheel was caught on something). It only happened once and afterwards it took several tries to start the car up again (the engine was still cold). I’m just wondering if all of these issues are related or not? If they are, does anyone know any one specific reason for it? If not, is anyone able to help identify what might be the cause of these issues (I know it’s probably a lot)? Here is some information on my car:
95 Geo Prizm (Toyota Corolla)
5-speed Manual transmission
1.6 L, 4-cylinder, fuel injected engine
Engine has just under 90,000 miles on it
I use 10W-30 Valvoline oil
The timing belt is in very good condition (looks almost new – no cracks, chips, or wear and tear)
It had an oil leak that covered the bottom of the engine but I replaced the oil pan gasket and no more leak (although I still need to degrease the engine)
If anyone can point me in the right direction (and not tell me to take it to a mechanic – all the mechanics out here have no idea what they’re doing) I would be very grateful.
Best answer:
Answer by D
If you have a distibutor, Check your timing on the crankshaft pulley at idle. You need a timing light. Under the hood says the correct mark for timing …between 8 to 15 degrees BTDC (before top dead center)at 800 RPM or idle. I believe it is too much advance around 20+ at idle causing the knock…also put a fuel additive that cleans intake valves and carbons on pistons.
What do you think? Answer below!
