Q: When i start my car, the rpm meter goes up to the number 5 and doesn't go back down, what could the problem be?

asked by on August 31, 2017

When I start my car, the RPM meter goes up to the number 5 and does not come back down. Even when idle.

My car has 123000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

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Hi Ariana. Thanks for contacting us today. Assuming that your engine is not winding up that high and it’s just the gauge that is doing this, it’s probably due to a damaged electrical relay or fuse that powers the tachometer (RPM meter). It is also possible that a speed sensor or other engine sensor is damaged as well. If the engine itself is revving incredibly high, then you have a stuck throttle or idle control valve; which should be immediately inspected and repaired. You might want to have a professional mobile mechanic come to your location to complete an onsite inspection to determine why the tachometer is doing this and recommend or complete the right repairs.

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