How to Clean an Idle Air Control Valve

Car maintenance is an easy do-it-yourself project that a lot of people don't do. Fixing or cleaning parts of the engine can be a pretty daunting task for some of us. However, cleaning the Idle Air Control Valve on your vehicle is actually one task that's easier than you think!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• wrench (size differs with vehicle make and model)
• non-residue electrical parts cleaner

1. 
   This is the IAC Valve for a Ford Explorer.

   First, let your engine cool down before embarking on this Adventure. Now you will need to remove the IAC Valve and detach the electrical sensor.

2. 
   A clean IAC valve.

   Spray the valve liberally with the electrical parts cleaner. Keep spraying the valve until the fluid runs white, not dirty. Make sure to clean the clip that holds the electricals too. Place the IAC Valve on a towel or cloth and let it drain and dry for about an hour.

3. 
   After you are done cleaning the valve, replace it, and let your engine run for about 5-10 minutes.

   After the IAC is completely dry, you can now replace it in the engine. Start up your vehicle and let it run for about five to ten minutes to ensure that the engine can adjust the amount of air while it's idling. That's it, it wasn't to hard was it?

Tips & Warnings

• Do not replace the IAC until it is completely dry! It could cause more problems if you replace it still wet.

[sandalwoodcg]

on 10/7/2009 I HAD A PROBLEM WITH MY 96 DODGE(5.9 LITER) STALLING EVERY TIME I LET OF THA GAS. I WOULD STSRT UP FINE AS LONG AS I KEPT GIVING IT GAS. I CLEANED THE IDLE IAC VALVE, AND KNOW IT RUNS GREAT.

[dtwelloh]

on 2/12/2009 Great step by step. Well written article. I give it 5 stars along with a recommendation.