Why does my car idle low when i come to a stop?

There could be several reasons why your car idles low or stalls when you come to a stop:

Dirty or Faulty Idle Air Control Valve (IACV)

The IACV controls the airflow to maintain idle speed. If it’s dirty or faulty, it may not function properly, causing the engine to idle low or stall.

Vacuum Leaks

Leaks in the vacuum system can disrupt the air-to-fuel ratio, leading to rough idling or stalling.

Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)

The TPS monitors the position of the throttle and sends signals to the engine control unit (ECU). If it’s malfunctioning, the ECU may not adjust the airflow correctly, affecting idle speed.

Clogged Air Filter

A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, affecting its ability to idle smoothly.

Dirty Fuel Injectors

Dirty fuel injectors can disrupt the fuel delivery, leading to rough idling or stalling.

To address the issue

Check and Clean the Idle Air Control Valve: Remove and clean the IACV according to your car’s manual. If it’s faulty, consider replacing it.

Inspect for Vacuum Leaks

Check hoses and connections for any leaks and repair or replace as necessary.

Test the Throttle Position Sensor

Use a multimeter to check the TPS for proper functioning. Replace if defective.

Replace the Air Filter

If the air filter is dirty, replace it with a new one to ensure proper airflow.

Clean the Fuel Injectors

Use a fuel injector cleaner additive or have them professionally cleaned.

If the issue persists after these steps, it’s recommended to have a professional mechanic diagnose and repair the problem, as it could be a more complex issue requiring specialized tools or knowledge.