Mark Carter wrote....

"">>> I was begining to consider wether this could be a software issue and would benefit from a reflash at Toyota.<<<

If its been good from new until now I doubt a software update will be the answer.

Have you driven the vehicle?

How long has the current owner had the vehicle?

What's the work history telling you?

Mark ""

That is an interesting comment Mark & one that surprises me.

Although I have the same logical question nagging in my mind.... "It has been fine for years on it's original software, I can't see why a reflash should fix this fault???" I have however witnessed many examples where vehicles have benefited enormously from a PCM software update.

Unless I am dealing with an obvious mechanical, fueling or ignition type running fault & I am looking at a more subtle "management" type problem, then software is probably the one area that I will look into very early on these days. I have overlooked this in the past & kicked myself for doing so.

Without wishing to sound "elitist" I have often wondered how other repairers would have dealt with a job that I have fixed 100% by a simple update?? I don't have the capability to perform updates on every (or even most) marques, but I factor this into my approach. If I am limited in this area, then I might step back from a job & refer it to someone who is more able to perform the necessary steps.

I should also add that, it is not just software updates that are a critical part of the modern diagnostic & repair process, but also the capability to perform the multitude of resets & re learn procedures that are often missing on anything other than the dealer tool. I am sure that many technicians will have experienced jobs that have been 90% fixed by another repairer, only for them to fall at the final hurdle. That hurdle being the function missing from their scan tool.

In my opinion, the vehicle manufacturers are winning the battle I am afraid

More food for thought!