2001 Mercury Sable Very Fast Idle

MT3582

MEMBER
2001 MERCURY SABLE
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
90,000 MILES

My daughter's car is idling very fast. I realize it is winter but it is very fast even though. She recently had the car break down on a trip to the tune of approximately $1300.00. The following work was done: Replaced the AC Compressor package and recharge. The vehicle was making a grinding noise apparently coming from under the hood. The noise disappeared when the vehicle was put in neutral. The vehicle worked fine on the return trip after the repairs. The vehicle then sat for a couple weeks because she was sick and because she has a crack in the windshield (whole other story). She is currently unemployed so my question is this: What simple inexpensive things can we check before taking it to a garage? She really can't afford to pay to have it checked and repaired and then find out it is something simple she could have checked/fixed herself. Also I have some experience and feel confident, depending, working on cars. Thanks

1 Reply

BRAVESTAR1

MECHANIC
234 POSTS

I think you had two problems.

The clunking noise was probably due to the A/C compressor clutch which on these cars can tend to lock up and causes strain on the engine due to the lack of easy movement when the system engages.

I would next take the car to an Autozone and get a free diagnostic to check for any trouble codes. My thoughts are that you have a problem with the MAF/MAP sensor, or the IAC (Idle Air Control) Valve. The other thing, is the EGR system, which on these cars, is supposed to be closed at start-up and open when it warms up. If the system is open at start-up it will idle faster to compensate for the exhaust air going into the air stream when it's not a good time for it.