The idle speed needs to increase, stalls when stopped?

2002 MERCURY SABLE
100,000 MILES
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STEVEN0164
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
The idle speed needs to increase car stalls when I stop.
Mar 22, 2023 at 7:44 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

The idle speed is controlled by the powertrain control module (PCM) and is not adjustable.

I will try to explain what may be happening. There is an idle air control valve (IAC) that is responsible for maintaining engine idle speed. The IAC is mounted to the throttle body and allows a metered amount of air to reach the engine when your foot is off the throttle. See pic 1 below

There is a pintle valve at the end that enters the throttle body. If that is corroded or the air passage is corroded, the vehicle won't idle properly, or it will simply stall.

Before we start replacing parts, here is what I recommend. I would first remove the IAC and service it.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/idle-air-control-valve-service

Once you finish that, it would also be a good idea to also service the throttle body bore.

Here is a link that explains how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/throttle-actuator-service

This is where I would start. If this doesn't take care of the problem, chances are the IAC itself has failed.

Let me know what you find and if this helps. If you have additional questions, let me know.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
Mar 22, 2023 at 12:52 PM
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