Stalling at idle?

Hi,

At 80,000 miles, there is nothing as far as a tune-up that would cost nearly that amount of money. Actually, if it has 180K there is nothing that would cost that amount. At this point, don't have it done.

A rough idle or stalling is usually the result of an engine vacuum leak, a fuel pressure related issue, an idle air control valve (IAC), and so on. None of this would cost that amount of money.

Take a look at this link:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/stall-at-idle

If you have your vehicle, safely drive it to a nationally recognized parts store and have them scan the computer for diagnostic trouble codes. Record what they find and let me know the codes.

Also, in the interim, check for possible vacuum leaks.

Here is a link that explains how to check:

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

If by chance they wrote the diagnostic codes down for you, let me know what they are.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

What size engine is in the vehicle? Is it a 4-cylinder or 6-cylinder? I ask because coil packs are usually under 50.00 each.

As far as the oxygen sensors are concerned, they too are not expensive.

Is this something you would feel comfortable doing yourself? I feel you could do this all for under 500.00. If it is a 4-cylinder, it will be less.

Also, I just want to point out that if the O2 sensors are stuck leak, that is causing the computer to add too much fuel. Chances are the coils and spark plugs don't need to be replaced. I say that because in my mind, I suspect either you have an engine vacuum leak, a weak fuel pump, or it is the O2 sensors. Also, are there any exhaust leaks that you are aware of?

Let me know. If I can help, I would like to.

Take care,

Joe

Hi,

Thanks for the update. As far as the oxygen sensors are concerned, if they are truly bad, that could resolve all the issues. If you have a chance, let me know how things turn out for you. I'm interested in knowing.

Also, there is no need to contribute. We appreciate the offer. The only thing I can tell you is they have a GoFundMe page.

Here is the link, but please don't feel obligated:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-us-help-others-get-back-on-the-road

Let me know how things work out for you. If we find it does need spark plugs or coils, we will cross that bridge when we get to it. You're not alone. I'll walk you through how to check things.

Take care of yourself,

Joe

Yes, chances are the oxygen sensors were not bad, these codes come up when the engine is getting too much air which can be caused by a vacuum leak. With the engine off, remove the vacuum check valve from the brake booster and you should hear air escaping. Here is the location of the valve. Also, here is a guide that you should use when the engine is cold:

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

If you don't hear air escaping the booster is bad, here is how to replace it. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.