How to Clean a Chevy Iac Valve

A Chevy's IAC valve, known as the idle air control valve, monitors and controls the air flow coming through the throttle. When the IAC valve is dirty, your Chevy will not idle properly. It may stall, or it may idle rough. To correct this problem, you can clean the IAC valve to remove the dirt, dust, and debris that may have accumulated inside the valve.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Socket wrench
• Socket set
• Electronic parts cleaner

Instructions

1. Open the hood of your Chevy and locate the IAC valve. The valve sits on the side of the throttle body located behind the engine near the firewall.

2. Disconnect the negative cable from the negative battery terminal. Loosen the retaining nut on the cable clamp and slide the clamp off the terminal.

3. Unplug the electrical connection that runs to the IAC valve.

4. Remove the two screws holding the IAC valve to the Chevy's throttle body.

5. Turn the valve over and spray electronic parts cleaner into the valve opening. You may want to take the valve out of the engine bay so that you don't make a mess while doing this. Spray the sensor inside the valve and allow the parts cleaner fluid to drain out until it runs clear.

6. Reinstall the IAC valve. Installation is the reverse of removal. Then, start the Chevy's engine and allow the IAC valve to reset by running the engine for a few minutes.

Tips & Warnings

• For specific information about your Chevy's IAC valve, consult the particular vehicle's manual (see Resources).

Resources

• Automobile Service Manuals