1987 Honda Accord Idle Surging

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NIK
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
1987 Honda Accord LX-I mileage - 229,000

Here's my problem, I think my idling is messed up because whenever the car is in neutral (it's a 5 speed) the idling will go from fast to slow, to fast to slow, etc. I hear Hondas are notorious for this problem and even heard another one doing the same thing. It never stops and someone had suggested that it could be a problem with the idle switch and suggested that when the idle goes to high I should give it some gas and that will usually bring it back down to normal idle speed. Well, it didn't and a car that was great on gas now sucks it up like an SUV, more than my 4 cylinder automatic. Help!!
Dec 10, 2006 at 1:46 AM
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BRUCE HUNT
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 3,754 POSTS
Surging is common. Check for vacuum leaks, check the coolant level and purge it for air in the system. Leaks in the intake manifold and manifold gasket will cause this as well. There are other causes but start with that.
Dec 10, 2006 at 2:18 AM

Suggested Repair

Start by checking for vacuum leaks, verifying the coolant level, and purging air from the cooling system. Also inspect the intake manifold and manifold gasket for leaks, which can cause idle surging.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1987 Honda Accord LX-I with a 5-speed reports idle speed repeatedly rising and falling in neutral, along with worse fuel economy. Giving it gas when the idle rose did not restore a normal idle. The expert says surging is common and recommends checking vacuum leaks, coolant level and air in the cooling system, plus intake manifold and manifold gasket leaks before considering other causes.

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