The idle sensor, all cars need to intake a certain amount of air while running to ensure the engine performs correctly. Of course, this process is not random. All cars require a set of tools to help adjust the amount of air entering the engine, especially as the engine's performance is significantly influenced by changing surrounding conditions, like pressure, temperature, and vehicle speed. Therefore, all types of cars have multiple sensors that send data to the car's computer. This data is used to determine the correct amount of air the car needs to intake.
The idle sensor is one of the important tools in adjusting the amount of air needed for car engines to work while idle. In this article, we will be focusing on the definition of the idle sensor, its location, the symptoms of its damage, and how we can repair the idle sensor when it fails.
What is the idle sensor?
In fact, the term "idle sensor" is not an accurate label, because the idle sensor is actually a valve, not a sensor or detector. However, the term sensor is used because that's how people commonly refer to it. As for its definition, it is a component of the engine, acting as a valve that controls the flow of air into the engine during idle mode, meaning while the engine is running but the car is stopped. The valve receives commands from the car's computer, i.e., it receives electrical signals from the computer and translates them by regulating the amount of air necessary for the engine's proper function during the car's stoppage. Sometimes, it is called an air control valve or IAC sensor, and it is important not to confuse it with the air sensor, also known as the MAF sensor.
Where is the idle sensor located?
Most of the time, the idle sensor is connected to the throttle body, also known in English as Throttle Body, and it is either next to the gate that allows air intake, or it is connected to it. In most old cars, the sensor is found as an external unit mounted around the throttle, unlike modern cars where it is integrated with the electronic throttle control unit.
Also read:The importance of tire rotation and when it should be done.
What are the causes and symptoms of idle sensor damage?
If you encounter any of the symptoms that we will explain in this paragraph while driving your car, you must rush to a mechanic or the nearest maintenance center to inspect your car and repair the idle sensor if it is damaged. Most often, the idle sensor is prone to damage due to carbon buildup on it and its lines. In this case, it needs to be cleaned. Here we will mention the most important symptoms you may face in case the idle sensor is damaged:
Engine Light:
In fact, the appearance of the check engine light is one of the worst signs that should be taken seriously, because it means that there is a malfunction in one of the engine components. Since the idle sensor is one of the engine components as we clarified in the previous paragraphs, its failure leads to the illumination of the check engine light.
Unstable Deceleration Speed:
Unstable idle speed is one of the most common signs indicating damage to the idle sensor. The driver will often experience a fluctuating engine idle speed that may suddenly increase or decrease, rapidly rise, or drop quickly. This is because one of the tasks of the idle sensor is to regulate the engine's idle speed to keep it at a steady rate.
The engine stops working when the air conditioner is turned on.
Typically, the engine will shut off if you turn on the air conditioner, whether it's on cold or hot, if the idle sensor is faulty. In this case, the driver should not operate the air conditioner and let the engine rest for a few minutes before restarting it.
How to Repair the Idle Sensor
We will explain the steps that can be followed to repair an idle sensor. However, it must be noted that repairing an idle sensor will likely not provide the same quality as a new sensor, but it may suffice, especially for those who are unable to purchase a new sensor.
As we mentioned earlier, the accumulation of carbon and its deposits on the idle sensor is one of its most common faults. It can be cleaned using a high-quality degreaser, with the help of a hard brush, and by following the steps below:
Remove the tube from the air intake to the fuel pedal body, but be careful to secure the throttle position sensor.
Start the engine and gradually increase the speed, maintaining an idle speed of around 1000-1500 revolutions per minute.
Spray the cleaner under the opening located in the throttle body.
Turn off the engine for a few minutes to allow the cleaner to reach the idle air valve.
Restart the engine at the same previous speed.
Turn off the engine, reassemble the parts, and connect them as they were.
Start the engine again and increase the speed until white smoke comes out of the car's exhaust.
If the problem is not solved by the previous steps, you will need to replace it.Idle SensorReplace the damaged part with a new one, or consult the maintenance center and the specialized technician to make the appropriate decision regarding your car's problem.
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