Q: The car jerks and the lights flicker when idling.

asked by on November 01, 2016

When idling the car jerks the rpm flutters between 1 and 0 and the headlights flicker

My car has 61000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Battery Replacement $247.05 - $377.49 Get a Quote
Alternator Replacement $166.62 - $1297.14 Get a Quote
Car idle is rough Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi. This sounds like there is a problem with the battery or charging system. When a cars had low battery voltage or the charging system is not charging properly it will cause the car’s PCM to make the car run rough and effect the electrical system for the car. You may have a problem with both the battery and the alternator and both of these components should be tested. If you would like to have this checked for you, a certified professional from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to diagnose the rough idling symptoms and move forward with repairs.

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

How do I use the power windows?
Your car is equipped with power windows. Each door has a control for its own window, while the driver position has controls for all four, as well as the window lock button. The driver side window also has a one-touch...
Sluggish acceleration during quick speed increase
The intake variable runner control may be stuck in the wrong position and would need to be checked to see if it is able to move. The control valve for this or the solenoid for the variable valve timing may...
The vehicle shudders and makes a whirring noise at 50 mph when letting off the accelerator. Any idea on Problem?
Hello there, there are a few potential causes for the vehicle to have a whirring noise like this. The most common would be a drive shaft joint, CV axle (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/axle-cv-shaft-assembly-replacement), warped brake rotor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-rotor-disc-replacement), or a bent wheel. I'd recommend...
When replacing the brake switch, why would the 3rd brake light work and not all 3?
It is possible that both of the brake light bulbs (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-light-bulb-replacement) are out. It is also possible that the other two brake lights are on a separate fuse from the third brake light which could cause the third brake light...
I hear a creaking noise when I turn the water pump
Hi - If you spin the fan and can hear a noise, that is an indication that the water pump bearing is failing. It would be best to replace the water pump (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/water-pump-replacement) as soon as possible so it doesn't...
Car loses speed while driving.
Hi there. Check the battery cables (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/service-battery-cables) and make sure that they are tight. Also, check the connections from the alternator to the battery. If the power wire from the alternator is loose, then the battery light will come on...
RPM's fluctuate while idling and sometimes it dies. Getting codes for multiple misfires and knock sensor.
Hi there. Check the fuel injectors and see if they are working or not. While the engine is running, unplug one injector harness at a time. If the engine begins to hesitate, then the injector was working. If the engine...
New battery, car still wont start even with jumper cables.
If the battery is new and fully charged, and you turn the key to the "start" position and you hear nothing that means that either the starter circuit supplying the starter motor (ignition switch, wiring, relay, fuse, etc.) has a...
Interior lights turn on and off when my jeep is turned off and all the doors are closed, how do I resolve this?
Hi There, I would suggest having the alternator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement) checked to determine if it is receiving the proper amount of voltage from something called the voltage regulator. The voltage regulator regulates the charging voltage that the alternator produces, keeping it...

Related articles

2012 Honda Civic vs. 2012 Ford Focus: Which One Should I Buy?
One of the best ways to cope with pain at the gas pump is to look at downsizing your vehicle, and today’s compact cars are a great option that allow you to keep the space that you need to move...
5 Essential Things to Know About Idling
Everyone Everyone does it, whether waiting for the kids to get out of school or someone running into the store for an item or two. The problem is, idling, which occurs when you sit with your vehicle running but not...
The Top 5 Selling Cars in Arizona in 2012
Depending Depending on where you live in Arizona, the weather is either arid or there may be periods of heavy snow – such as in the mountain areas. The vehicles that have been popular in previous years for the area,...