Q: Car idling erratically

asked by on February 15, 2016

As soon as I start my car, it idles erratically.

Engine idle speed is high Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello. The erratic idling could be caused by several things: You could have a bad mass air flow sensor, the throttle position sensor could be bad, or the idle air control valve could be bad. This could also be an indication of a problem with the fuel system, or a very bad vacuum leak in the engine. I suggest you have all of these possible issues checked as soon as possible because they all could make the car idle erratically. A diagnostic test of the erratic idling would best be done by a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Car blowing hot air
Hi. Symptoms such as these are commonly caused by a failed blend door actuator. The blend door actuator is the component that shifts the system from blowing hot air to cold air, if it fails in the hot position, it...
Power steering leaking
Hello. It would first be necessary to pinpoint where the leak is coming from (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/power-steering-fluid-is-leaking-inspection) by doing a power steering system check. Once the origin of the leak is found that component would need to be replaced. I recommend having...
side window came loose
In this situation the window may be able to be reattached. If the window is still in good condition it is completely possible that the part can be repaired and not need replacement. If you decide that you need some...
What does it mean when the harmonic balancer wobbles?
Hi, thanks for writing in. When the harmonic balancer is wobbling, it would be best not to run the engine. The harmonic balancers function is to counteract the vibrations in the engine so damage doesn't occur. When it fails (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-crankshaft-harmonic-balancer),...
The fuel consumption of my car is too much. What should I do pls?
Hi there: In order to help you locate and gain access to the sensors that might be faulty, we'll need to know the make, model, year of your vehicle. However, there are many factors that impact fuel economy, from damaged...
Engine code says my thermostat is bad but nothing seems wrong with my car.
Your vehicle is probably covered by GM's 5 year, 100,000 mile Powertrain Warranty. Consequently, you may be entitled to a free warranty repair of this thermostat issue, which issue by the way is not particularly unusual and so the dealer...
My timing cover is leaking, and the guy that is working on my car told me that it doesn't really need to be fixed, Just check oil 2007 GMC Acadia
Hi there. Well, to be honest - I wouldn't recommend working with this mechanic much longer. Although a timing cover leak usually just causes oil to drip on your driveway, the reality is that it leaks because either the gasket...
My honda civic 2008's car AC stopped working and is creating rattling sound. when inspected by a mechanic, it said he need to repl
Hi there. The items you've listed including the condenser and compressor themselves are typically installed by local mechanic shops for $500 to $700 individually. So, the estimate you've listed for all of that service seems rather fair. As long as...
Feels and sounds like front half shaft but no appearance of any break or leaks
The front axle CV joints may be worn even if the boots are good. You should also have the front hub bearings checked to see if they are bad.

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Honda Pilot
If If you’re in the market for a larger SUV, you might think that you have to resign yourself to a gas-guzzling monster like a Suburban or a Chevy Tahoe, but that’s really not the case. With the 2012 Honda...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Realtor or Real Estate Agent
If If you make your living as a realtor or real estate agent, you may have a number of considerations when it comes to purchasing a used vehicle. The most common considerations are budget, ability to transport people, and comfort....
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're a Personal Trainer
As As a personal trainer, you either operate out of a gym, or you go to your clients. Either way, you probably don’t have to haul any more gear than what fits into your gym bag, so your main focus...