Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Circuit Description
The Idle Air Control (IAC) valve consists of a 2 coil stepper motor controlling a pintle. PCM pulses a signal to the IAC valve by switching the high and low side circuits, depending on which direction the pintle needs to move. The amount of movement being commanded is displayed in counts on scan tool. With engine off, IAC pintle is retracted (80-100 counts) allowing maximum air during a restart. After start-up, the motor position commanded is based on coolant temperature and TP sensor values. PCM monitors IAC circuit for low and high voltage faults.
DTC will set when either IAC valve coil "A" or "B" is commanded on and off and voltage on one side of coil circuit is high when it should be grounded. A short to voltage will also set this DTC when PCM is commanding IAC valve to move. This diagnostic runs continuously when engine is running and PCM is commanding IAC valve to move.
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.