1997 Honda Civic idles rough, jerking mortion when a/c is o

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MYSTILIKA
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
1997 Honda Civic 4 cyl Automatic

1997 Honda Civic - when stopped at a light or any other reason (ATM machine), car idles rough and begins a constant jerking motion with a clicking sound (I first thought it "felt like" the transmission was trying to shift gears while I was stopped, however it continues while I put the car in park as well). This happens only when the A/C is on. When I turn the a/c off, the jerking stops immediately and it no longer idles rough; I put the a/c back on and the problem begins immediately. Thank you! Any help is appreciated.
Jul 1, 2010 at 5:57 AM
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KHLOW2008
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 41,812 POSTS
Hi mystilika,

The idling speed is too low and the compressor is cutting in and out causing the jerking. Get the Idle Air Control valve cleaned and retest.
Jul 2, 2010 at 7:31 AM
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