Car has jumping RPM at idle and drive

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02-18-2005, 10:04 AM

athlon omega

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Car has jumping RPM at idle and drive

The old problem with the OD light seems to have resolved itself. This new problem just started today. I was at the light and the RPM started to jump up and down. The car made a sputtering type sound but I revved to keep it alive. No lights came on or anything. My dad said it could be an air handling problem like the MAF sensor. I checked the ECU for codes and got none. I cleaned my TB about one and a half months ago. Will cleaning it again solve the problem?

02-18-2005, 10:12 AM

njmaxseltd

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A hunting idle speed is usually caused by a malfunctioning TPS. The TPS also controls the shift point for the tranny. The two issues could very well be related.

02-18-2005, 10:55 AM

athlon omega

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The throttle positioning sensor? How would I remedy the situation. Is it something that can be cleaned, or do I have to replace it? Thanks for your help.

02-18-2005, 11:18 AM

athlon omega

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Never mind. I saw the other thread about the TPS. I'll try to test and see. I wonder if I should buy a new one from the dealer or one from a junk yard. Can this even be bought at a Pepboys?

02-18-2005, 05:41 PM

athlon omega

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Went to the junkyard got a 97 throttle position sensor. Spent 2 hours installing. Still have same problem. At night, the lights on the guages and the headlights dip with the RPM. What the hell is going on? I still have no ECU codes.