Engine stalls at idle?

Tiny
SHAWNSELMIER
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  • 1990 HONDA ACCORD
  • 4 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 142,000 MILES
When theres under a half tank of gas the car dies when I slow down or stop. We changed the fuel filter and put cleaner in it. What else could cause this to happen?
Saturday, April 2nd, 2011 AT 12:27 AM

7 Replies

Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,814 POSTS
What is the idling speed?
Have you checked for trouble codes?
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Sunday, June 19th, 2011 AT 8:42 AM
Tiny
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The idling speed is 1000 rpm and we cant get codes because the check engine light doesn't come on
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Sunday, June 26th, 2011 AT 2:03 AM
Tiny
KHLOW2008
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At 1000 rpm, the idling speed is already higher than standard.
Are you able to restart easily?

Get the fuel pressure tested.
Is it necessary to crank the engine for prolonged periods during starting?
Does the CEL goes off after 2 seconds after ignition is turned on?

During cold start, does engine speed drop drastically when throttle opened and closed abruptly?
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Sunday, June 26th, 2011 AT 5:58 AM
Tiny
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Yes it starts right up. It only dies when its in drive and the cel never comes on. What should the idling speed be?
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Sunday, June 26th, 2011 AT 7:12 PM
Tiny
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Idling rpm is 650 to 750 at operating temperature.
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Sunday, June 26th, 2011 AT 7:19 PM
Tiny
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OK. Could it be the throttle body sensor? Thats the only thing I havent changed as far as the fuel system goes
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Sunday, June 26th, 2011 AT 7:41 PM
Tiny
KHLOW2008
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If the throttle body or its sensors are faulty, trouble codes would be triggered. If it is dirty, the idling speed would be low. If it stalls when gears are engaged, it seldom is a fault with the throttle body or sensors.

The more likely cause wouldtight valve clearances. Get them checked/adjusted and retest.
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Monday, June 27th, 2011 AT 12:41 PM

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