RAV4 Bucking

1998 TOYOTA RAV4
170,000 MILES • 4 CYL • AWD • MANUAL
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CLMBANDSKI
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My '98 RAV4 is bucking strongly, it is worst when decelerating at under 3,000 rpm, it also has a strong exhaust smell like unburnt fuel while idling, any ideas?
Jun 22, 2011 at 1:06 PM
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SIXPACK SUBARU
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Is it well serviced?
Jun 22, 2011 at 1:39 PM
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DOCFIXIT
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Check engine light on? if yes have codes been read?
Jun 22, 2011 at 2:52 PM
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CLMBANDSKI
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Sixpack Subaru- things have been a little tight lately so I am a bit behind on scheduled maintenance but overall it is well maintained.

Docfixit- the check engine light was on briefly at one point but it has since gone off again.

I know this age group is famous for O2 sensor issues, the unburnt fuel smell makes me wonder if it might be another sensor issue. Has anyone experienced surging/bucking due to a faulty O2 sinsor?
Jun 22, 2011 at 3:13 PM
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KHLOW2008
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The unburnt fuel smell indicates it is most probably a misfiring cylinder. Have the spark plugs and related components checked.

The CEL indicating briefly could mean a truble code has been stored. Get a free scan done at parts stores and let us know what it is.

Speculating is not going to get you anywhere.
Jun 22, 2011 at 3:52 PM