Low Idle Problem a Start-UP

[rmwilliams]

Folks: I have an automatic 96 4X4 Explorer XLT. Recently at times, when I start the vehicle when its cold, the idle is real low almost to the point where it wants to stall (and sometimes does). However, when the engine reaches normal operating temperature, the idle is fine. I checked for vacumm leaks, but do not notice anything. I do not have any CEL either. My next steps are to clean the idle/air valve and change out the plugs/wires. Can anyone shed any light on this?

 

[MalcolmV8]

Start with the obvious. Like you said clean out the IAC with some carb cleaner and I'd clean the mass air sensor too.

 

[mattcoverdale]

Iac

I had approximately the same problem. I was forced to change my IAC, cleaning it didn't cut it.

 

[ExplorerDMB]

I had approximately the same problem. I was forced to change my IAC, cleaning it didn't cut it.

and sometimes it doesn't -- I would look into a new IAC or possibly a good used one (if you need to go that route)

-Drew

 

[aldive]

I have rarely seen cleaning an IAC fix problems; replacement does ( if indeed its an IAC problem ).

 

[rmwilliams]

The IAC is "relatively" new from NAPA auto parts - maybe a few years old. I replaced the original one when it was causing the humming sound at lower RPMs. Could the new new IAC have gone bad already???

 

[aldive]

It could go bad.

 

[exploded99]

Plug wires won't help low idle (engine misses, yes) - change em if you think its time, or save the bucks for other stuff you might need

 

[soltero]

Same problem here, but mine also idles very high when warm, I make it go down pressing the accelerator pedal all the way down very quick. But it's a pain to drive like this.

BTW, where's the IAC and IAC valve located? and how do you clean it (just to give it a try)

 

[takem2war]

Same problem here, but mine also idles very high when warm, I make it go down pressing the accelerator pedal all the way down very quick. But it's a pain to drive like this.

BTW, where's the IAC and IAC valve located? and how do you clean it (just to give it a try)

check this thread out...

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=144066&highlight=clean+iac

or search for clean iac but that first thread should give you enough info to do it, im going to do it today since im having the same issue.