Auto Parts: friends car is having problems, air control valve, pep boys

Question
My friend has a 1994 Oldsmobie royale 88 and he says that it's been running pretty good for awhile now. (his family has had this car a really long time) Now my friend says that the car will start but there's not idle. So do you have any suggestion on where to start? He says that he doesn't want to take it to a car shop because he doesn't have much money but that he wants to find out how to fix it on his own if possible. thank you for your time.
Kyle k

Answer
Hi Kyle,

Sorry for the delayed response, my computer has been down for a few days.

You need to be more clear on the 'starts but does not idle' senario. Does the engine stall or does it shut off as soon as you release the key? If it is just stalling, I'd say check that the IAC (Idle Air Control) valve is not stuck or blocked. That is the most common problem leading to stalling.

Hopefully this helps you. If not, send a more detailed follow-up, this time I'll get to it faster, I promise.

Looking for a reputable service technician? My advice on finding a good technician is: Steer clear of the dealership and 'chain' stores like Firestone, Sears, Pep Boys, Monro Muffler/Brake, Midas, etc. as they usually only employ ONE ASE Certified Tech just so they can say they do and chances are, that guy is the asst. manager or manager and is not in the store to diagnose/repair vehicles anyway. Find a service location in the link below or get some names out of the yellow-pages and do a drive-by. Garages that employ ASE Certified Technicians will be marked with the 'Blue-Seal' insignia. If unsure about whether a place employs Certified Techs, just ask to see their credentials. ALL ASE Certified Technicians will be PROUD to show and display their certificate(s).

Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
Knucklebusters Used Auto & Truck Parts, Inc.
www.knucklebusters.us
570-453-0910
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