Engine stalling

2008 CHEVROLET COBALT
110,000 MILES • AUTOMATIC
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DICKHAUTS29
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
When I am at low speed or idling my cars, RPMs jump up and down and then they drop to zero and the engine stalls. When the engine stalls, the timing belt makes a squeaking noise and the car shakes.
The timing belt has been replaced very recently.
Nov 4, 2021 at 7:43 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

The timing belt isn't the likely cause of the noise. However, the serpentine belt is.

Based on your description, it sounds like there is a problem with the idle air control valve (IAC). The IAC is responsible for maintaining engine idle speed. Here is what I suggest: The first thing I would do is check for engine vacuum leaks. Here is a link that explains how that is done:

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

If none are found, next is to remove the IAC, inspect it for carbon build-up/dirt, and clean it and the airway it plugs into. The IAC is located on the throttle body. I will need to know the specific engine you have and if it is turbocharged to get specific information, so let me know.

We do have a procedure for servicing the IAC, but based on the engine, it may be recommended to avoid cleaning.

Let me know if you find leaks and the engine size.

Joe
Nov 4, 2021 at 8:43 PM
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