How Often Should the Idle Motor Be Replaced?
2 Answers
The idle motor does not have a fixed replacement cycle and does not need to be replaced if it is not malfunctioning. If the car's idle motor fails, the following symptoms may occur: Irregular Idle: One of the most common symptoms associated with a faulty air control valve is an irregular idle. The idle air control valve is programmed to regulate and maintain the engine's idle speed at a constant rate. If the valve malfunctions or encounters any issues, it may cause the idle to become erratic. This can result in abnormally high or low idle speeds or, in some cases, repeated fluctuations in idle speed. Engine Stalling: Another more severe symptom of an idle control valve problem is engine stalling. If the idle control valve fails completely, it may leave the vehicle without an air source to maintain proper idle. This can cause the engine to stall while running and, in some cases, may prevent the engine from idling at all, causing it to stall immediately after starting.
I've driven many older cars and found that the idle air control valve (IAC valve) doesn't need regular replacement at all, as it's designed to be quite durable. Generally, you only need to address it when problems arise, such as erratic idle speed, engine shaking, or frequent stalling. From my experience, if you notice unstable engine idling—like fluctuating RPMs when stopped at a red light—it might indicate an issue with the IAC valve. Don't rush to replace it; first try cleaning the carbon buildup with a specialized cleaner spray. It's cheap and simple, something many car enthusiasts can DIY. If cleaning doesn't help, then consider replacement—a quality aftermarket part usually costs around a hundred bucks. The key is not to overlook other factors like throttle body carbon deposits or a dirty air filter, which can also affect idle. If your car stalls due to unstable idling, especially in city traffic jams, it can be dangerous, so address the issue promptly. A quick visual check during routine maintenance can save you a lot of trouble.
