Cleaning the idle air control valve (IACV) on your vehicle periodically helps keep carbon and other particles from building up on the valve, which can negatively affect the operation of the car. Products designed to thoroughly clean the idle air control valve can make the difference between a rough or smooth ride. When noises emanate from a vehicle or vehicle performance is inconsistent and unreliable, it's a sign that it's time to take a look under the hood. Show
Cleaning an Idle Air Control ValveWhen the idle air control valve becomes clogged, the result is a car idling too fast, running in a jumpy manner while idling, backfiring, or idling so low that it causes the vehicle to stall or to start and then cut off. Cleaning the valve may be all it takes to regulate the idling so the vehicle operates properly. Cleaning the idle air control valve results in several benefits to vehicle operation:
Products for Cleaning an Idle Air Control Valve3M Intake System Cleaner KitWith the 3M Intake System Cleaner Kit, expect consistent performance by improving the idling process. The kit contains a complete fuel system cleaner, intake system cleaner, and throttle plate and carb cleaner, all designed to support and improve engine performance. ATP Intake Blast Complete Intake CleanerThe ATP Complete Intake System Cleaner is recommended for both direct-injected and fuel-injected engines to dissolve deposits, resulting in better idling. CRC Throttle Body and Air Intake CleanerCRC Throttle Body and Air Intake Cleaner does the job cleaning harmful deposits and goop from the body of the throttle and the valves. Once cleaned, vehicles start easier and rough idling is eliminated. Berkebile Oil 2 + 2 Air Intake CleanerThe Berkebile Oil 2 + 2 Air Intake Cleaner works fast and furiously to remove varnish, gum, and other particles that can be damaging. A little goes a long way as a general metal parts cleaner. Berryman B-12 Chemtool Fuel Injector CleanerBerryman's B-12 Chemtool cleaner can be used on all parts of the fuel system, including valves. It works fast to remove moisture and fuel residue quickly while remaining to use on the vehicle's oxygen sensor and catalytic converter. WD-40 - 300134 Specialist Carb/Throttle Body and Parts CleanerWith a six-pack of WD-40's Specialist all-in-one cleaner, you'll be well-prepared to keep your vehicle idling smoothly. The powerful spray's dual-action process uses a strong cleaning formula to break up and remove deposits. How-To Information for Cleaning an Idle Air Control ValveDisclaimer: The guidelines in this story are general and not meant to replace instructions for your specific vehicle. Please consult your owner's manual or repair guide before attempting repairs. Just a few materials are needed to clean the idle air control valve. These include the cleaning product, a clean cloth, work gloves, a wrench, and a screwdriver. Replacing the old and worn gasket with a new gasket one is recommended. Depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the location of the idle air control valve and the steps to clean it may vary. Consult the owner's manual for a diagram showing the location. Locating the Idle Air Control ValveThe IACV is usually located on the intake manifold near the back of the throttle body. Before starting the cleaning process, be sure the vehicle is not running and that the engine is cool. Removing the Intake HoseThe intake hose is attached to the throttle body. Detach the hose. Disconnecting the Battery CableCarefully disconnect the cable leading to the battery's negative terminal by loosening the nut and then carefully pulling the cable away. Removing ScrewsTwo screws are used to secure the air intake hose. These need to be removed from the clamp that attaches the hose to the throttle. Make sure to use the appropriate screwdriver to avoid stripping the slot. Disconnecting Electrical PlugLoosen and remove the electrical plug attached to the IACV. There are three hoses attached to the valve. Detach all three. Removing Plugs Connected to the IACVRemove any mounting screws located atop the intake air control valve. Detach the valve and remove the gasket. Removing the GasketThis is the one part that may need to be replaced. Once it's removed and you know you have the appropriate replacement gasket, throw the old gasket away. Applying CleanerAt this point, it's time to remove the dirt and grime that has built up by spraying the carbon cleaning product into the intake air cleaning valve. Remove any excess spray by wiping it away with the clean cloth or towel. Follow the product instructions for the time to let the product soak into the grime. This is typically 10 to 15 minutes. If dirt and grime remain, repeat the application process until there is no longer any evidence of dirt remaining. Cleaning Intake Passages and Throttle BodyUse the cleaner and a towel or rag to clean the outside of the throttle body and the inside of the idle air control valve passages. Let the area dry for at least 30 minutes. Remounting the Idle Air Control ValveOnce all surfaces are completely dry, put the idle air control valve in place, using a new gasket, and securely tighten the screws/bolts. ReconnectingReconnect the hoses and electrical plug. Carefully reconnect the negative battery cable after all other parts have been properly placed and reattached. Checking the ProcessTo check whether the idle air control valve is functioning properly, start the engine and let it run for about 10 to 15 minutes. If the valve is functioning correctly, the engine will sound good and the idle will be steady versus too high, too low, or inconsistent. If idling is still
rough, schedule an appointment with a local automotive shop, as a new intake air control valve may be necessary. Where is the idle air control valve located?The idle air control (IAC) valve is located on the throttle body of fuel-injected engines, where it works with the vehicle's ECU to electrically regulate airflow to the engine to ensure smooth idling.
What are the symptoms of a failing idle air control valve?7 Symptoms Of A Bad Idle Air Control Valve & Replacement Cost. Unstable Idle Speed.. Constant Engine Stalling.. Engine Backfire.. Rough Idle.. Stalling or Hesitation Under Load.. Check Engine Light.. Engine Won't Start.. Can I just clean my idle air control valve?How do you clean an IAC valve? After relocating the IAC valve, you need to unscrew it and detach all the wires. You can clean it by soaking it in gasoline and blowing compressed air into it. Then, reattach it with the screws and reconnect the wires.
How do I know if my idle air control is working?Check Your IAC
Place your ear close to the air-cleaner on the engine. Turn your ignition switch to the 'OFF' position. You should hear your IAC return to the 'Home' position. If you do not hear your IAC move, it is not operating.
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