The idle valve regulates the minimum number of engine revolutions by modifying the air flow. The car's control unit measures the variations of this valve and consequently modifies the engine revolutions; however, if the valve is not working properly, you will find that the number of revolutions increases or that the rhythm is irregular. A high, very erratic "idle" with large fluctuations or an engine stopping from time to time indicates that the valve needs to be cleaned. You don't have to be a mechanic to perform this maintenance job, but you do need to know a little about the parts that are under the hood. If you drive a Honda Accord and the idle valve is having trouble, know that this component is easily accessible and simple to adjust. Follow the instructions in this article to learn how to clean it.
Steps
Step 1. Purchase a new idle valve gasket
You need to replace the old one before you put the piece back in its place in the engine compartment.
Step 2. Locate the idle valve
It is located in the central and rear area of the engine compartment, near the throttle body, and is mounted behind the manifold. You have to remove the throttle body filler pipe in order to access the manifold which is connected to the valve.
Step 3. Remove the idle control valve
- Unscrew the two bolts that secure it to the manifold. To take out the lower one you have to work blindly, as it is completely out of sight.
- Pull out the gray cap from the right side of the valve.
- Remove the blue one from the throttle body.
- Locate the coolant pipes that join the valve to the throttle body.
- Use fine-tipped pliers to pull back the clamp that holds the tube and then extract it; in this way, you have enough free play to disassemble the valve from the front of its housing.
- Detach the last two hoses on the valve to be able to detach and clean it.
Step 4. Remove the gasket and throw it away
Step 5. Inspect the valve to identify the accumulated carbon to be removed
Take note of areas with a higher concentration of dirt, so that you can treat them carefully when cleaning.
Step 6. Clean the idle valve
Spray it with carburetor cleaner, making sure the deposits are completely soaked.
Step 7. Wait for it to dry
