1999 Honda Accord Car Stalls when at idle after warmed up

96,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
ED4010
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
The vehicle has ~ 95K miles. Timing has been replaced @ 90K (ran just fine). All normal maintenance has been done on normal frequency.
After the vehicle warms up it tends to idle very low (~ 750-800 RPM) at idle (in gear or out of gear). Sometimes the rpm will plunge to less than 600 and stall. If one stops abruptly the rpm will plunge momentarily to 600 rpm (expected since brake booster uses vacuum). I can find no vacuum leaks (sprayed carb cleaner on exterior vacuum hoses ==> rpm change if leak). Made slight adjustment on idle adjust and car runs a little better. What could the issue be:
NO MIL codes (ecm sees no sensor failures)
IAC sensor (??????)
Fuel Filter (?????) Where is fuel filter on this car?
Fuel Pump (capacity or pressure?????)
I do not believe it is the problem associated with ignition recall (engine dies but electrical guages indicate normally). Simply looking for most likely cause listed with possible other causes and any trouble shoot info. Parts are so expensive, unlike older cars, that simply guessing and replacing parts is not realistic.
Dec 13, 2008 at 1:10 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
MMPRINCE4000
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 8,548 POSTS
Start by measuring the fuel pressure with a mechanical gauge, especially during one of the stalling events, if no pressure, then most likely a pump or relay, If low pressure then a fuel filter or obstruction in fuel delivery system.

If pressure is OK, then remove and clean the IAC and passage in throttle body.
If problem persists, remove and clean the EGR valve and passage in intake manifold.
Feb 19, 2017 at 6:16 AM
Avatar
ED4010
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
While waiting for a reply I did more research. I removed and cleaned the Throttle Body & cleaned IAC. They were really dirty. Started the car and runs great. I will now replace the FI with rebuilt ones just to make sure the car runs flawlessly. If the FIs are as dirty as the throttle body they need to be removed, cleaned and tested. It is easier simply to buy rebuilt ones and send the old ones in as a core. I was really surprised how dirty the Throttle body and IAC were. I have a 1996 Toyota camry (2.2L/212k mi) and have never cleaned the Throttle body, IAC, or FIs but it runs great. Are Hondas simply that sensitive and the toyotas that well designed?
Feb 19, 2017 at 6:16 AM
Add a reply
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.

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle