Sort of chugging sound/feel and it starts to stall

JUICEBOX1986

MEMBER
1999 FORD ESCORT
4 CYL

My moms 99' Ford Escort Zx2 is having problems while idling. There is a sort of chugging sound/feel and it starts to die, if we hold the brake and push just a little on the gas it can help make it not so bad, so I think it might be something to do with the fuel system. I know very little about cars, and want to know what this could be. If you can help please do! Thank you very much. I put this under fuel pump because I didn't know what else to put it under, if this is wrong sorry.

Thursday, December 16th, 2010 AT 1:37 AM

1 Reply

SQM

MECHANIC
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

It sounds like you might have an issue with the idle air control valve (IAC).
The IAC is located on the throttle body.

The IAC has internal ports that regulates air flow. Overtime the large air particles will stick to the inside of those ports and create restriction.
When a IAC has excessive dirt build up on the inside it can affect the idle quality.
Many times the IAC can be cleaned and the idle quality will improve.
The IAC may or may not trigger the check engine light.

You might find these articles helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-idle-air-control-valve-works
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/idle-air-control-valve-service

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know of any questions.

Thank you.

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