Fast idle in neutral

2000 MAZDA B2500
179,000 MILES • 2.5L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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BALBAUGH
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What could cause my idling to go up to 3000-4000 rpm's in neutral?
Aug 25, 2017 at 4:27 PM
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HARRY P
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 2,292 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
I would suspect either a bad idle air control valve or a vacuum leak (specifically the intake manifold gasket) if there is no service engine light. If there is a light, get it scanned and let us know what the code(s) it has. You can get that done at the local auto parts shop.

Guide on how to check for vac leaks: https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

Guide on idle air control (IAC) valves: https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-idle-air-control-valve-works

How to replace an IAC valve: https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-idle-speed-control-motor-iac
Aug 25, 2017 at 6:43 PM
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HARRY P
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 2,292 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
And then I found this. It could be caused by a bad connection at the throttle position sensor. Here is the service bulletin released by Mazda.
Aug 25, 2017 at 6:53 PM
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