stalls at idle

2002 HONDA ACCORD
118,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
FIGGY88
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
My vehicle shut down on me while I was driving on the interstate. I had cruise control on, and then all of a sudden it started to sputter and shut off. When I got the vehicle back in my possession, I tried to start it again. You can hear it trying to turn over. When you push the gas pedal in and hold it, the car stays on. As soon as you release the pedal, the car sputters and shuts off again. What could be the problem, and how can I fix it?
May 6, 2010 at 10:29 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 41,814 POSTS
Hi Figgy88,

You would need to check the idle control system.

Is the Check Engine Light showing?
May 9, 2010 at 4:01 PM
Avatar
FIGGY88
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Yes it is. Now that I think about it when I got the light diagnosed they said it was an O2 sensor.
May 9, 2010 at 4:07 PM
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 41,814 POSTS
What is the exact trouble code?
May 10, 2010 at 10:10 AM
Avatar
FIGGY88
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
That I do not know but they said it was my lower level sensor.
May 10, 2010 at 10:51 AM
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 41,814 POSTS
The exact trouble code would enable us to understand the problem better.

Autozone provides free scanning services.
May 10, 2010 at 12:09 PM
Avatar
FIGGY88
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Is there any other way to get the code myself? I won't be able to get the vehicle to Autozone.
May 10, 2010 at 12:13 PM
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 41,814 POSTS
You would need a scanner to retrieve the codes. Manual retrival is not accurate.
May 10, 2010 at 12:37 PM
Avatar
FIGGY88
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Ok. Since I need to change my O2 sensor anyway, how would I do that?
May 10, 2010 at 1:07 PM
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 41,814 POSTS
O2 sensor it bolted onto the exhaust manifold. You would need a special wrench to remove it.

Unplugging the wire coupler and loosening the sensor with the wrench would allow you to remove it.
May 10, 2010 at 3:37 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.