Check Engine light does not turn on, and engine does not crank or start?

1999 TOYOTA RAV4
185,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • 4WD • MANUAL
Avatar
KRIS BLIDNAUT
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Normally when the key is turned the Check Engine light comes on and when the car starts, the Check Engine light turns off. But a week ago I couldn't get the car to start and noticed the Check Engine light wasn't coming on beforehand either. I've tested the fuses, and all are good. (Relays seem fine too)

Heavy rusting above the windscreen allowed rainwater in and it soaked the fuses and relays. (Cluster below steering wheel) I dried it all, but the issue remains. might not have anything to do with that cluster getting wet but the problem began around the same time though. So, I'm stuck!!!

I would greatly appreciate any suggestions and assistance.

Thank you!
- Regards, Kris B
Aug 12, 2022 at 8:07 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 POSTS
The moisture is not helping the cluster. We should run the codes to see what comes up, but it sounds like the cluster is shorted out or maybe the PCM. You can get a CAN scanner from Amazon for about $30.00.

Here is a video to show you how:

https://youtu.be/u-4syLc-ifQ

Here is a scanner link:

https://amzn.to/3o41KcZ

This can help us see what's going on and get the problem fixed. I would remove the cluster so, check for corrosion and corroded electrical connectors. Check out the diagrams (below). Please let us know what you find.
Aug 13, 2022 at 10:06 AM
Avatar
KRIS BLIDNAUT
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I have an OBD2 scanner, but this vehicle still has the old Toyota 22-pin diagnostic port so I'm waiting for an adapter from eBay. It's not the instrument cluster that got wet, but rather the fuse cluster. I have checked the contact points for corrosion and there are signs of minimal corrosion but nothing that looks too serious.
Aug 17, 2022 at 2:48 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 POSTS
That's a good sign. There are three main relays that run the engine computer system which are mentioned in the wiring diagrams below. I also have a guide to help you test them, also I found the relay location. Let me know what you find.

Aug 17, 2022 at 11:35 AM