I have a 1997 Celica Convertible and it is a great car. I have noticed that recently if I got to start it up in the morning or after extended periods of non driving time, it will start and cut off. I have to start it while gently pressing the gas until the idle is stable.....any idea why it is doing that? I am thinking either the timing belt needs to be replaced (I have to do that anyway though) or the valve cover gasket (o rings) is letting oil get on my spark plugs and is affecting my car. Car anyone help me try and solve this problem?

Thanks in advance

its not the timing belt.


sound more likeyour car needs a tune up.

I did give it a tuneup about 6 months ago. I think that it may have something to do with that leaky valve cover. When I did the tune up (with iridium plugs) I noticed that two of the plugs had oil on them....not on the tips though.

you need to change the spark plug tube seals to get rid of your oil problem.

try seafoam and clean your idle air control valve and throttle body. Part of a tune up is to de-carbon your engine.

Your Idle Air Control Valve needs to be cleaned. It has nothing to do with the oil leak or the timing belt at all.

Thank you guys for all your help. I did not even think to check the idle air valve.