Engine shuts off at low RPMs?

2001 HONDA ACCORD
173,000 MILES • 1.2L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
Avatar
ARNIE MADIS
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Come off freeway idle drops down and shuts off. Start it back up and it will only run if the tachometer exceeds 2,000 RPMs. If I let the car sit for a couple of hours, it starts up and runs fine for a couple days. Very frustrating and scary to drive it.
Oct 30, 2022 at 12:24 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,267 POSTS
So, this can be a vacuum leak, or the throttle body needs to be serviced. Here are three guides that will help us fix the problem, only test the engine for vacuum leaks when the engine is cold.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/stall-at-idle

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/throttle-actuator-service

Please go over this guide and report back.
Oct 31, 2022 at 3:46 AM
Avatar
JIS001
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 3,412 POSTS
I also wanted to mention the idle air control valve can have carbon in it to cause the idle issue. I would just recommend replacing it. You can try to clean it, but you will end up having the same issue. The valve is located on the intake manifold just behind the throttle body.

As Ken L suggested earlier. Clean the throttle plate of carbon and I would also recommend replacing the idle air control valve.
Nov 1, 2022 at 3:06 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.