Why Does Low Idle Speed Cause Stalling?

[DelAdrian]

Mostly due to issues with the throttle body or idle control valve. Severe carbon buildup in the throttle body or component damage can trigger this fault. Below is relevant information about vehicle idle speed: 1. Function of vehicle idle speed: Idle refers to an engine operating condition where it runs in neutral gear. The engine speed during idle is called idle speed, adjustable via throttle valve settings. Idle represents the engine "producing power without doing work." When the accelerator pedal is fully released during engine operation, the engine enters idle state. 2. Causes of unstable idle: Direct causes include dirty/worn/improperly installed mechanical components affecting cylinder power output, creating imbalance between cylinders and causing unstable idle. Indirect causes involve abnormal engine electronic control systems leading to poor fuel mixture combustion, making cylinder power balance difficult and resulting in unstable idle.