idling at higher rpms and shifting late

[bug]

Hi,

I've been lurking for a while and I gotta say, this is a great forum, I learned quite a bit! Thanks!

I have a problem with my 97 Mountaineer which is driving me nuts.

After long periods of driving, the car would idle in park at about 1,000 rpms higher than usual. It would also shift "late". It takes about 4-5 seconds longer for it to shift into next gear and it does it at much higher rpms too as you've probably guessed.. However, it shifts smoothly, without any unusual noises. I've noticed that these two problems are always appearing together.

I am a moron when it comes to cars, but I have a feeling that this might be electrical. Something (sensor..?) overheating maybe?

If anyone could give me ANY suggestions, I'd be really grateful!

Thanks!

 

[TPLYNCH]

Where is your Temp gauge when this is happening?? Is it in the normal range? If the engine is running hot, the computer will automatically idle high to try and cool the engine. If guauge shows normal, you may want to check your coolant temp sensor. Pretty sure it is seperate from the sender that feeds the guage.

 

[bug]

Originally posted by TPLYNCH
Where is your Temp gauge when this is happening?? Is it in the normal range? If the engine is running hot, the computer will automatically idle high to try and cool the engine. If guauge shows normal, you may want to check your coolant temp sensor. Pretty sure it is seperate from the sender that feeds the guage.

Temperature is as it always is. I see no change other than what I described above. I'll check the coolant temp sensor as you suggested, thanks! Anything else?

 

[KPT]

Check the throttle position sensor. Mine went out on my '95 and it would idle at 2K rpms.

My check engine light came on for like 30 seconds though so I knew exactly what the problem was.