Nissan Repair: engine not idling correctly, air control valve, nissan maxima

Question
Hi, I'll be the first to admit that I know almost nothing about cars. I have a 1988 Nissan Maxima that, when I start it now, the RPM and battery gauge are jumping-the car jumps, and it feels like its going to die. Once I get going it ends up getting better, but I don't know what the problem is. It makes the whole car shake and shudder. Sorry I don't have a better description for you.

Answer
Kelli,

If the idle goes up and down when you first start the car you could have several different things that cause it.  The first would be that the idle air control valve is plugging up and needs to be cleaned or replaced.  That is where I would start first.  Second, if the car has not had a tune up in a few years I would replace the spark plugs as a minumum.  And, the air filter too.  Have these things looked at and replaced or cleaned as it relates to the idle air control valve and email me back.  Oh, if the fuel filter has not been replaced I would replace that too.