If you own a flex-fuel Toyota Tundra, you might have encountered hard starting, rough running, and poor fuel economy due to a high alcohol fuel density level. Dealers often charge a hefty fee to address this issue, but a Cheap Dealer Level Scan Tool can provide a DIY solution. This article details how a Launch X431 CRP919E bidirectional scan tool successfully reset the fuel density level on a 2013 Tundra, resolving these problems.
Understanding the Problem: High Alcohol Fuel Density
Flex-fuel vehicles are designed to run on gasoline or E85 ethanol blends. The engine control module (ECM) uses sensors to determine the fuel composition and adjust engine parameters accordingly. However, sometimes the ECM incorrectly registers a high alcohol content even when running on gasoline. This leads to extended cranking, rough idling, poor fuel economy, and strong fuel odors. Toyota issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB-0166-19) outlining a fix, but dealer repairs can be expensive and may not provide a lasting solution.
Finding a Cost-Effective Solution: The Launch X431 CRP919E
While exploring various options, including the costly official Toyota Techstream software, a more affordable alternative emerged: the Launch X431 CRP919E. This cheap dealer level scan tool offers bidirectional functionality, enabling it to both read and reset vehicle parameters. Other seemingly comparable options, such as the XTOOL D7 and D8, lacked the capability to reset the Tundra’s alcohol fuel density level.
Resetting the Fuel Density Level: A Step-by-Step Guide
After confirming with the seller that the Launch X431 CRP919E could perform the necessary reset, the tool was purchased and tested. The process involved updating the device to access the required special functions for Toyota vehicles. Connecting the tool to the Tundra’s OBD-II port revealed an alcohol fuel density level of 85%, confirming the suspected cause of the issues.
Using the tool’s intuitive interface, navigating to the “Diagnose” section, selecting “Toyota,” then “ECM-ECT (engine),” and finally accessing “Special Functions,” the “Fuel Density Learning Value Reset” option was located and executed. The reset process took mere seconds, instantly setting the alcohol level back to zero.
Results and Conclusion: A Successful Reset and Improved Performance
Following the reset, the Tundra’s starting problems, rough running, and poor fuel economy were completely resolved. The engine started immediately, ran smoother, and fuel efficiency improved noticeably. The alcohol percentage level remained at zero even after subsequent checks. The Launch X431 CRP919E proved to be a cheap dealer level scan tool that provided a quick, effective, and affordable solution to a potentially expensive dealer repair. This demonstrates the value of investing in a reliable diagnostic tool for DIY car maintenance and repair. While the issue might reoccur, the ease of resetting the fuel density level with the Launch X431 makes it a manageable solution.
