Speedy Auto > Auto FAQ > Cars > Honda

Honda: 1989 Accord LXI idle fluctuation, IACV, IAC valve


Question
i have a 1989 accord lxi with 130000mi. the idle started fluctuating from 700-1600 rpm when the engine is warm and has been driven a while, sometimes i can get it to stop by reving the engine. i cleaned the iacv with brake cleaner but do not know if that fixed the problem because it is intermittent. after cleaning the iacv it seemed to idle more smoothly until i backed down the driveway and turned the wheel, the idle dropped to about 500 and almost stalled. whenever i turn the wheel or turn the fan on the idle drops, evan the brake pedal slows the idle. thank you for any help

Answer
I'd recommend removing the throttle body and cleaning the soft carbon deposits with throttle induction cleaner NOT brake cleaner. I'd also recommend cleaning the IAC valve port and screen with throttle induction cleaner and allow it to air dry before re-installing it. The fast idle valve has 3 set screws on a plate on the top side. Remove these screws and check the white colored stopper inside. They tend to back off and may require tightening it back down for the proper seating distance.