1996 Dodge Neon Dies at Idle

1996 DODGE NEON

JUSTINJONES122

MEMBER
1 POST

I have a 1996 Dodge Neon Highline (SOHC) and it will run fine as long as I have my foot on the gas, but it idle it will just die, it doe not sputter or anything just dies, My check engine light had been on and it was giving a code for the o2 sensor and I replaced that but I am still having the same Idle problem, what could be causing this?

Sep 2, 2006 at 3:07 AM

SQM

✓Experienced Mechanic
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

This sounds like you might have a faulty idle air control valve (IAC).
The IAC controls the engine idle speed. A faulty or clogged IAC can keep the engine from idling.
The IAC is located on side of the throttle body. Over time large air particles can stick to the inside on the valve and restrict air flow this will impact the way the engine idles.
Many times, cleaning out the IAC can improve the idle quality.

Here are some helpful articles:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-idle-air-control-valve-works
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/idle-air-control-valve-service

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Oct 28, 2021 at 12:03 PM

Suggested Repair

Inspect and clean the idle air control valve on the side of the throttle body; replace it if cleaning does not restore idle.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1996 Dodge Neon Highline SOHC says the engine runs with the accelerator applied but dies at idle without sputtering. An oxygen sensor code was addressed by replacing the sensor, but the idle problem continued. The expert suggests a faulty or clogged idle air control valve and recommends cleaning it.

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1996 Dodge Neon Dies at Idle

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