It does not idle down?

1996 PONTIAC FIREBIRD

250,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

VJDAVIS

MEMBER
1 POST

When I start my car it idles at about 2000 to 2500 rpm's. It does not idle down. After it warms up it will sometimes idle down but for the most part I have to drive with my foot on the brake.

Jan 29, 2010 at 3:24 PM

SQM

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

It sounds like an issue with the idle air control motor (IAC).
The IAC is located on the throttle body.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-idles-too-high

A weak spring inside the IAC can cause the idle to be high. It can also be high if there are too much corrosion buildup on the spring which allow more than correct amount of air.
Cleaning the IAC many times fixes this issue.

Here are couple of helpful article:

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

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
Click here to log in and view diagram.

Aug 27, 2021 at 8:08 PM