Questions and Answers

Lexus ES 300 Dies At A Stop Q. I have a 1998 Lexus ES 300, V-6 engine, automatic transmission, 62,000 miles, fuel injection, ABS brakes, P/S, A/C and cruise control. Recently I have been having a problem with my car dying when it is not moving, it would not hold up the RPM's. I took it to the dealer to have them do a diagnostic hoping that it would be something that would be covered under my warranty.

They told me that it was my auto idle control valve, that it was sticking. They told me that it needed to be taken out and cleaned. The price, $323.00 not covered under warranty, a maintenance issue.

Thinking I could have it done cheaper elsewhere I took it to my local mechanic he told me that this part is internal and cleaning it would do me no good, that the part itself needs replaced. Which of these two is right?

I greatly appreciate your help,
Lance

A. Actually, in a way, both are right. The IACV can certainly be cleaned and I would try that before replacing it. If, after cleaning, it still does the same thing then replacing it is your only option. I have had decent luck with cleaning them and the throttle body curing idle speed problems.

My article Cleaning Throttle Bodies will help you do it yourself if you are so inclined.