Idle Speed: Testing and Inspection

NOTE: Before setting the idle speed, check the following items:
- The MIL has not been reported on.
- Ignition timing
- Spark plugs
- Air cleaner
- PCV system

1. Start the engine. Hold the engine at 3,000 rpm with no load (transmission in neutral) until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle.
2. Connect a tachometer.




3. Disconnect the IAC valve 2P connector and the EVAP purge control solenoid valve 2P connector.
4. If the engine stalls, restart the engine with the accelerator pedal slightly depressed. Stabilize the rpm at 1,000, then slowly release the pedal until the engine idles.




5. Check idling in no-load conditions: headlights, blower fan, rear defogger, radiator fan, and air conditioner are not operating.

Idle speed should be: 450 ± 50 rpm

If necessary, adjust the idle speed, by removing the cap and turning the idle adjusting screw. After adjusting the idle speed recheck the ignition timing. If it is out of spec, go back to step 4.
6. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
7. Reconnect the 2P connectors to the IAC valve and the EVAP purge control solenoid valve, then do the ECM reset procedure.
8. Restart and idle the engine with no-load conditions for one minute, then check the idle speed.

Idle speed should be:

USA:
D16Y5 engine: 670 ± 50 rpm
B16A2 engine: 700 ± 50 rpm

Canada:
B16A2 engine: 750 ± 50 rpm

NOTE: If the idle speed increases to 810 ± 50 rpm, this means the EVAP system is purging the canister. To stop the purging temporarily, raise the engine speed above 1,000 rpm with the accelerator pedal, then slowly release the pedal.

9. Idle the engine for one minute with headlights (Low) ON, and check the idle speed.

Idle speed should be: 750 ± 50 rpm

10. Turn the headlights off. Idle the engine for one minute with heater fan switch at HI and air conditioner on, then check the idle speed.

Idle speed should be: 810 ± 50 rpm

If the idle speed is not within specification, see Symptom Chart.
Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures