Idling problems on 02'

[rlgdguy]

This seems to be a little different than other's posts, so I figured I'd throw it out there for all to ponder.

I have an 02' with the V8 engine and about 120k on it. Two weeks ago I got in the truck, turned the key, the engine turned over, but would not stay running. After several attempts, I had to get to work and did the ole "two-foot, gas/brake at same time), to keep it running. The battery indicator was right in the middle, where it always is, so I don't believe it's a battery or alternator issue. Several times during the trip (about 12 miles) I took my foot off the gas at traffic lights and the engine stalled. I started it back up each time and resumed with my two-foot ritual. About halfway through the trip, I took my foot off the gas and the engine idled regularly. Did not give me any issues the rest of the way or on the way home, later that evening.

No issues idling before or after that incident and no "check engine" light on either before or after as well. Then about a week later, the same thing happened with the same results. Wouldn't idle, but after two-footing it for several miles, it idled and ran on its own. Hasn't done it now for about 4-5 days, but I expect it will at anytime. Sound familiar to anyone else? Any ideas? I have not had luck with mechanics lately so I am reluctant to take it anywhere just yet. My mechanic of about 10 years passed away suddenly and unexpectedly last year and the guy who took over I knew, but closed the business recently and moved out of state. I refuse to go to the dealer for anything. Very interested in all replys and thanks in advance. This forum is awesome!

 

[SyberTiger]

Geez, is your CEL light even working? I'd go over to AdvancedAuto or AutoZone anyways to see if there are any codes stored in the computer.

Read the following thread just to make sure you don't have this problem because it is VERY common: Rough idle and "Check Engine Soon" light

 

[frankenfreak]

Maybe a fuel problem/clogged injector. Don't know how many miles are on your fuel filter. If its pretty fresh, I would put some BG44K in the tank. I had a clogged injector and also had idling problems on my OHC 4.0. If the BG doesn't solve it, you've got other issues. Also check spark for fouled plugs/wires while your at it.

 

[matt0248]

Sounds like an intermittently failing IAC. Does it seem to run smooth when you used the gas pedal to hold the engine RPM's?

 

[c2harvey]

we had an 01 taurus that did the same thing, wouldnt start or run without a foot on the gas, after about a mile it was fine, went away for a week or so and then came back. turned out to be the Throttle position sensor. the check engine light never turned on.

 

[rlgdguy]

Sounds like an intermittently failing IAC. Does it seem to run smooth when you used the gas pedal to hold the engine RPM's?

Yes, very smooth until I let off the gas ( then the rpm's drop) and then it stalls. And that's only when it is doing this problem. 98% of the times it runs nice and smooth and then it seems to correct itself after 10 minutes or so.

 

[Ted22]

I second IAC... tps would prob throw a code... Cel should illuminate on start up!

 

[SyberTiger]

MAF Sensor and IAC Valve Cleaning Thread

 

[frankenfreak]

Iac

Thought about idle air control sensor after my reply. Hard to say with OBDII cars w/o a code to work off of. Sometimes i'll hammer on it on the highway to get a code to pop up. Probably not the best idea, but I do feel better.

 

[debo75]

definately the IAC. I had the exact same issues in my F-150. If you're over 80k I'd just replace the dang thing.