When I turn my car on, it runs very rough and then it either stalls or fixes itself. Once I can finally get it started, it usually runs pretty well, but it usually takes four or five times to get it started. I just replaced the fuel filter, but it didn't help. I am at a loss as to what could be causing this problem and I can't seem to find a mechanic that can figure it out.
Here is the common cause of surges, stalls at stops, slow idle speed, erratic idle speed, rough idle and engine hesitation (and other problems), it is in most cases the idle speed control air-bypass valve and or throttle valve and upper intake, these area's get full of gunk and combustion residue over the miles and cause idle issues (stalls, low idle) like yours, Get a can of intake cleaner from any local parts store, not carb spray, intake cleaner, it is made by a company called CRC, remove the air intake hose to the engine, hold the idle high so the engine won't stall, then spray the can of cleaner into the intake while keeping the engine running, use at least 1/2 the can, shut down the engine and disconnect the battery for 5 minutes, then restart and complete a number of mixed driving cycles, town, freeway, stop and go etc., after a few days the problem will go away as the system will relearn to the clean intake.
Low / uneven idle problem can cause by a lot of components.
Dirty air filter
Dirty injectors + o-rings
Vacuum leak at intake manifold and vacuum hose.
Bad Idle Air Control Motor (IAC)
Low compression (170 psi + is OK)
Start cleaning and repair these trouble spots and see is there any improvement.
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For more advance DIY'er then you may try this.
Use a can of Berryman carburetor clean to locate the vacuum leak.
SEE SAMPLE PICTURE HERE
This is a 20-30 minutes job.
Vacuum leaks can occur in following locations.
Intake manifold AND/OR vacuum lines.
Intake manifold is not accessible unless the engine head if off.
You can still check the potential leak by spraying some Berryman near the intake manifold.
Listen for rpm increase after you introduce the Berryman (FUEL) at idle.
Do the same starting from the brake booster unit (the round unit) on the drive side fire all.
Carefully listen for increase of RPM right after to spray the Berryman to the potential vacuum spot.
Get a friend to HEAR the RPM increase or monitor for RPM on the tech.
DO NOT AIM the Berryman into any heat source.
PLEASE RATE my answer if it is useful to you.
My 1990 Cabby used to stall, probably due ot a vapor lock. Had fuel pump checked out and the pressure is fine. So I replaced the fuel pump relay. It works great now.
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