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.
Monitor Description
The idle speed is controlled by the Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS).
The ETCS is composed of the throttle motor which operates the throttle valve, and the throttle position sensor which detects an opening angle of the throttle valve.
The ECM controls the throttle motor to provide the proper throttle valve opening angle to obtain the target idle speed.
The ECM regulates the idle speed by opening and closing the throttle valve using the ETCS. The ECM concludes that the idle speed control ECM function is malfunctioning if: 1) the actual idle RPM varies more than the specified amount five times or more during a drive cycle, or 2) a learned value of the idle speed control remains at the maximum or minimum five times or more during a drive cycle. The ECM will turn on the MIL and set a DTC.
Example:
If the actual idle RPM varies from the target idle RPM by more than 200 (*) RPM five times during a drive cycle, the ECM will turn on the MIL and a DTC is set.
HINT:
(*) RPM threshold varies with engine load.
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.