How to Clean a Mitsubishi IAC Valve

Your Mitsubishi’s IAC (Idle Air Control) valve can become dirty and clogged over time. If your Mitsubishi stalls frequently or begins to have a strange idle, it’s time to clean the IAC valve. A dirty IAC valve cannot control the engine's idle speed very efficiently--hence the poor idle and frequent stalling. Cleaning the IAC valve involves a few easy steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Owner’s manual
  • Socket wrench
  • Throttle body cleaner
  • Locate the IAC valve. It is a cylindrical unit that's about three to four inches long, located on the throttle body. Refer to your owner’s manual for its exact location on your Mitsubishi.

  • Detach the IAC valve harness. Remove the two bolts that secure the valve into the mount using a socket wrench. Pull the IAC valve out of the mount.

  • Use throttle body cleaner to clean the inside of the holes on the valve. Clean any built-up debris using a wire brush and rag.

  • Insert the IAC valve onto the mount and replace the bolts, using the socket wrench to tighten and secure them. Reconnect the harness to the IAC.