Toyota Picnic Common Problems and Solutions
No Reverse Warning Beep
Problem:
You are not hearing the beeping noise that you normally hear when reversing.
Solution:
This is a common issue on the Picnic, and it's being caused by a dirty or broken reverse sensor. Try wiping off any dirt or debris to see if that resolves the issue. If it doesn’t, then you need to find a new sensor on our parts page for the Picnic. It’s a very easy part to install.
Difficulty level
Rear Parking Sensors
Front and Rear Wiper Malfunction
Problem:
Your front or rear windscreen wipers have stopped working. Sometimes, they will both go at the same time.
Solution:
The wipers on the Picnic are notorious for rapid wear. Not only do the wipers themselves need to be replaced regularly, but so too will the wiper motors. We can deliver complete wiper systems when you order from our parts list, which will include the motors and the blades.
Difficulty level
Wiper Blade
Airbag Issues
Problem:
In the event of a collision, the front passenger airbag may not deploy correctly.
Solution:
This is a recurring issue with the Picnic, and it’s due to faulty airbag inflators. The entire airbag unit will need to be replaced, but this is a job that’s best left to professionals. Airbags contain combustible elements and toxic chemicals, so unless you know exactly what you're doing, it can be very dangerous. However, we always have airbag units for the Picnic in stock if you do decide to tackle this work yourself.
Difficulty level
Airbag
Sticky accelerator pedal
Problem:
If you are having problems with the accelerator pedal sticking, it is caused by a blocked throttle mechanism.
Solution:
You will need to remove the throttle mechanism and clean it out to sort this issue.
Difficulty level
Suspension knocking noise
Problem:
The anti roll bar bushes are known to fail on the Picnic. You may hear a knocking noise when driving over speed bumps or uneven surfaces. If so, you have a problem with these bushes.
Solution:
You can fit replacement anti-roll bar bushes to sort the problem.
Difficulty level
Anti Roll Bar Bush
Clutch problems
Problem:
A squeaking noise coming from the clutch when you press and release the clutch pedal is a known issue on the Picnic. This seems to be a particular issue on 1997-98 vehicles. This is due to a fault with the clutch.
Solution:
You will need to replace the clutch to resolve the issue. We know these parts can be expensive to replace, so we want to help you find your replacement clutch at very low prices.
Difficulty level
Engine management warning light
Problem:
If the engine management warning light has appeared on the dashboard, it is usually due to a problem with the lambda sensor. If this is the cause of the warning light, you may also notice that your vehicle is using more fuel than usual.
Solution:
Replacing the lambda sensor will rectify the situation.
Difficulty level
Erratic idling/misfiring
Problem:
A known issue on the Picnic is for the engine to misfire and idle very erratic. If you are facing this problem, it is usually caused by the throttle body. This can get blocked up and will need cleaned out. The engine should be idling at a regular constant speed but if the throttle body is blocked you will have a very irregular idle.
Solution:
As mentioned above, you will need to clean out the throttle body. Cleaning it with throttle body cleaner will sort the problem. Why not watch the video below to see how this is done:
Difficulty level
Throttle Body
