surging idle

FORD ESCORT
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CJU99
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have a 1997 ford escort wagon 4 cly. 200,000km
The idle surges and I am getting bad fuel economy. about 350km to the tank city driving.
I have relpaced, spark plugs, spark plug cables, fuel filter, air filter, cleaned injectors, checked for a vacum system leaks this appears to be fine.

My best guess at this point is that it is probably a sensor gone bad. I don't have a manual so I need a little help.

Also I live in Costa Rica and unfortunately I don't trust any of these backyard mechanic shops. For GOOD reasons.

Gracias.
Jun 9, 2007 at 8:39 AM
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INDYUKE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 416 POSTS
Is the check engine light on? If it is, then you could scan the computer for fault codes which would give you a hint as to what the problem might be.

The problem you describe has been described to me as a "rolling idle". Throughout the engine compartment there are several electrical connectors that have three to ten pins in them. Sometimes those pins become contaminated with moisture or even lose contact with the female slots they plug into. You need to unplug them, clean them out and/or bend each pin slightly (very slightly) to the side so that when you plug it back together each pin will make firm contact.

That's my shot in the dark... i hope it helps.
Jun 9, 2007 at 5:39 PM
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