Engine idling high

Hi,

Did this happen all at once? Does the check engine light stay on when the engine is running?

This vehicle has a throttle cable that may need to be adjusted or is damaged from age and not allowing the throttle to fully close.

I attached the directions below for adjustment. Try this. Also, inspect the cable both at the throttle body under the hood and in the vehicle at the throttle pedal for indications of fraying or anything that may cause it to stick.

If you question anything, disconnect the cable at the throttle body to make sure it is fully returning to the closed position. I attached a few additional pics so you can see the cable, where it is routed, and how it is connected at the TB.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

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Michelle,

The transmission fluid wouldn't cause this. If the throttle cable is in good condition and the throttle body is fully returning to the idle position, the next thing we need to check is for an engine vacuum leak.

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

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

If you are unable to locate any leaks, then we need to focus on what is called the idle air control valve (IAC). The IAC is responsible for maintaining idle speed. If you look below, I provided the directions for cleaning, inspecting, and measuring the pintle valve. (See pic 1)

Pics 2 and 3 are the directions for removal and installation. Also, here are two links you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-idle-speed-control-motor-iac

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

If you follow the air intake tube from the air filter box, it will lead you to the throttle body.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.