Idle air control

The idle air control is a control system used on fuel injected cars. The idle air control or IAC valve controls the idle speed of the engine. The IAC valve is controlled by the ECM (computer). The computer gets it’s information from the rpm which is supplied by the distributor, crank or cam sensor. The IAC valve moves in and out to bleed air behind the throttle plate. This air bleeding is the same as opening the throttle plate. The idle speed can be controlled precisely the throttle plate which isn’t controlled as well. Air conditioning will drop the idle speed down and will kill the engine if the IAC doesn’t work well. The idle air control will be located on the side of the throttle body. The IAC can become sticky after time and will cause the the engine to surge, rev or stall the engine. The valve can be removed and cleaned if not too severely worn. Usually the valve needs to be replaced. Make sure the gasket looks alright. Also make sure the idle air control is secured well and doesn’t leak air, or the engine will rev up.