AUTONET TV

Cayenne's Idle Talk about Engines (Causes of Rough Engine Idling)

Hey, it's Cayenne, and today we are going to have an idle bark talk about rough engine idling.  I don't know about you, but when I go for a drive, and start to slow down at a stoplight, the vehicle's idle should be smooth as silk.  But what happens when the engine is missing or idling roughly? That's your engine's way of telling you, "Hey, I've got something wrong with me, and if you don't get someone to find out what it is, I may not start the next time you turn the key."  That's not good, so let's get barkin' and stop staying idle on this subject!

You can help your service facility by describing the problem in detail.  Here's a list of things to make a note of:

• When is the problem happening, when the engine is cold or when it's been running for a while?
• Does the rough idling occur when I'm accelerating or when I'm going at a steady speed?
• Does it happen at high speeds?  Does it happen at low speeds? Does it happen at both?

Make sure you describe the problem in as much detail as possible, as it will help a technician diagnose it.

One of the first things they'll check is how the spark plugs are firing.  Modern iridium plugs are supposed to last a long, long time.  But they CAN eventually wear out.  Inspecting the firing end can help the technician identify the root cause of the problem.  Corroded or worn-out spark plug wires can also contribute to an idling irregularity. 

There are other potential problem spots, too.  The technician may check the ignition coil, timing, piston rings, valves, and cylinder walls. 

If the air-to-fuel mixture isn't correct, it may affect how smoothly your vehicle runs.  Your service facility is equipped with diagnostic tools that help pinpoint the problem.  Once that idle is smoothed out to the way it used to be, you'll be the smoothest operator on the road.

I leave you with this smooth quote,

"Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast" — Navy SEALs Mantra

Cayenne

Acheson Auto Works
8000 UNIVERSITY BLVD
CLIVE, IA 50325
515-223-4300