1999 Dodge Durango Idling issues.

JAY_P1313047

MEMBER
1999 DODGE DURANGO
5.2L
V8
2WD
238,000 MILES

I just bought this vehicle, and I had to change a freeze plug in it and the battery. When I crank it it runs good as long as my foot is on the gas, if I let off of the gas pedal, the vehicle dies every time. I'd like to know what causes this issue, and/or what needs changing please.

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,858 POSTS

Don't change anything. That will just put more variables into the mess. This repair is going to REAL involved and expensive. On any Chrysler product, when you disconnect the battery or let it run dead, the Engine Computer loses its memory and it has to relearn "minimum throttle" before it will know when it must be in control of idle speed. Until that is done, you also won't get the nice "idle flare-up" to 1500 rpm when you start the engine, you'll have to hold the accelerator pedal down 1/4" like you said, and it will tend to stall at stop signs.

Here's the real involved repair procedure:

Drive at highway speed with the engine warmed up, then coast for at least seven seconds without touching the pedals.