Is 600 RPM Idle Speed Normal?

[VanConnor]

An idle speed of 600 RPM is normal for a car. Here is some information about engine idle speed: Engine Idle: Engine idle is one of the operating conditions of a car engine, so idle performance has a significant impact on emissions, fuel consumption, and comfort. The engine speed during idle is called idle speed, which should not be too high or too low. If it is too high, fuel consumption will increase; if it is too low, the engine idle speed will become unstable. Idle Speed: The idle speed of a car can vary between cold and warm engine conditions. Generally, for an engine in good working condition when warm, the idle speed is typically between 550-800 RPM.

[OwenDella]

I've been driving for years and found that an idle speed of 600 RPM depends on the specific situation. Most cars normally idle between 700 to 900 RPM, so below 600 seems a bit low. If the engine stabilizes at this speed after warming up, without shaking or stalling, it might not be a big issue—especially common in older models or manual transmission vehicles. However, if the RPM is high during cold starts but drops below 600 after warming up, accompanied by engine shaking or flickering lights, you should be cautious. Possible causes include carbon buildup clogging the throttle, worn spark plugs, or a faulty mass airflow sensor, all of which can lead to unstable RPM, increased fuel consumption, or even engine damage. For regular maintenance, it's advisable to periodically check spark plugs and filters. If issues arise, visit a repair shop early for a computer diagnosis to prevent minor problems from escalating. After all, safety comes first—abnormalities while driving are reminders not to delay maintenance.

[LaGabriela]

My car is a six-year-old joint venture model, and I've experienced an idle speed of 600 RPM a few times. Last time after a cold start, the idle stabilized at this number with no vibration or unusual smells, and it ran normally for a week. Later, I checked the manual and learned that some models are designed this way. However, if the engine shakes noticeably or stalls when starting, it's likely a sign of problems, such as an air leak in the intake system or a faulty idle control valve. I once had a vacuum hose leak, which dropped the RPM to just over 500, and replacing the part fixed it. Regular maintenance is crucial—checking the idle speed during oil changes can prevent many risks. Long-term low idle speeds can lead to incomplete combustion, increased carbon buildup, reduced power, and higher fuel consumption. If you encounter doubts, don’t panic—most professional shops offer free inspections, and spending a little money to ensure safety is worth it.

[MadelineRose]

An idle speed of 600 RPM is generally considered low, with the standard range typically being 700-900 RPM. A stable 600 RPM after the engine has warmed up may be normal for small-displacement or economy cars, but it's important to observe for any shaking or stalling. Common causes include carbon buildup causing throttle sticking or sensor failure. A simple test is to check if the RPM changes reasonably during a cold start. If abnormalities are found, it's recommended to visit a repair shop for an OBD diagnosis, which is inexpensive and quick to perform. Delaying repairs can increase wear and fuel consumption, so driving should be done cautiously.