2003 Ford Windstar Rough Idle

JILLCUTTONE

MEMBER
2003 FORD WINDSTAR
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
12,500 MILES

When starting my car: it starts fine, then quickly goes to a rough idle, bucks, and dies out. This happens at every stop also. Drives fine though. I have cleaned IAC, replaced oxygen sensors, spark plugs, fuel filter, air filter, checked wires, replaced battery and pcv valve, any help would be GREATLY appreciated. I am a single mom and only car and funds limited. Thank you soooo much!

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,758 POSTS

Are you sure the IAC is good? Other than cleaning it, did you check it? Also, have you checked for vacuum leaks? EGR?

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Thursday, October 21st, 2010 AT 11:56 AM

JILLCUTTONE

MEMBER
2 POSTS

The IAC has been changed. I think it is a vacuum leak but can't find where since it runs through cylinder heads and all. Any where to start? Can find no obvious hoses leaking or loose. Have not replaced the EGR valve, should I do that first? Thanks

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Monday, October 25th, 2010 AT 6:58 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,758 POSTS

Before replacing the EGR, remove it and check to see if it is plugged with carbon as well as where it bolts to the intake. Also, many people use carb cleaner to locate a vacuum leak. When you spray it on the hoses, if there is a leak, the RPM's will raise. I personally don't like doing it because of the risk of fire. Just make sure that you avoid spraying it on anything that is extremely hot such as the exhaust manifold and keep a fire extinguisher near by.

Let me know what you find. Also, when checking the EGR, make sure the valve is opening and closing properly and sealing.

Joe

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Monday, October 25th, 2010 AT 8:39 PM