The constant struggle to start your car is a major hassle. But when combined with frequent backfiring and engine stalling at idle, you’ve got a recipe for an intolerable driving experience.
So what’s gone wrong with your vehicle?
It’s likely a faulty idle air control valve, which regulates airflow to the engine for maintaining idle speed. A malfunctioning valve will result in stalling, misfiring, and other engine issues. It’s a replacement you shouldn’t delay.
Curious about the idle air control valve cost?
To get your engine idling smoothly again, we’ll discuss the factors affecting the valve price and some maintenance tips to prolong the life of the new part.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does an Idle Air Control Valve Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Idle Air Control Valve?
- 7 Alarming Signs You Need an Idle Air Control Valve Replacement
- How Long Do Idle Air Control Valves Last?
- Can You Clean an Idle Air Control Valve?
- How Do You Maintain Your Idle Air Control Valve?
How Much Does an Idle Air Control Valve Cost?
Here’s what you can expect to pay for an idle air control valve replacement:
A. Range
Replacing your idle air control valve may cost between $120 to $1,070. The replacement cost includes:
- Parts cost: $70 to $900
- Labor cost: $50 to $170
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Additional factors that may impact the total replacement cost include:
- Vehicle make and model: The idle control valve replacement for luxury brands like BMW and Audi typically costs more.
- Valve’s location: If the valve is integrated into the intake manifold, it may require more replacement time, leading to higher labor costs.
- Extra repairs: Besides replacing the valve, problems like vacuum leaks and a filthy throttle body may also need attention. Cleaning just the throttle body will increase your overall cost by $170 to $300.
- Geographical region: Prices for parts and labor vary by region due to differences in cost of living and local market rates for automotive services.
Is It Worth Replacing the Idle Air Control Valve?
Yes, an idle control valve replacement is essential for ensuring stable engine idle speed. A bad IAC valve can lead to engine stalling and acceleration issues, which reduce your control over the vehicle and can put you in danger.
IAC valve-related issues can also damage the engine components, resulting in significantly higher repair costs.
7 Alarming Signs You Need an Idle Air Control Valve Replacement
Some common indicators of a bad IAC valve include:
- Illuminated check engine light: The engine control module (ECM) tracks the performance of the IAC valve. If it detects an idle problem, it will illuminate the check engine light to signal a potential issue.
- Irregular idle speed: If the IAC doesn’t allow the correct amount of oxygen into the engine, it’ll lead to improper combustion and cause significant changes in the engine’s revolutions per minute (RPM).
- Starting trouble: Irregular oxygen supply can prevent the engine from achieving the idling speed necessary for ignition.
- Backfiring: A faulty idle control valve can disrupt proper airflow, causing the engine to run rich while idling (more fuel, less air). This can allow unburned fuel to enter the exhaust system and ignite.
- Engine stalls: A bad valve may not provide sufficient airflow for combustion, causing the engine to stall.
- Poor engine performance: A failing IAC valve can lead to decreased power or even misfiring during acceleration as a result of an incorrect air-fuel ratio.
- Reduced fuel economy: If a faulty IAC valve allows excessive fuel into the combustion chamber, the ECU compensates by providing more fuel.
How Long Do Idle Air Control Valves Last?
Idle air control valves should last as long as your vehicle. However, you may experience a faulty IAC valve prematurely due to:
- Debris accumulation: Carbon or dirt can build up in the IAC valve due to poor-quality fuel and lack of maintenance.
- Electrical issues: Wiring problems in the engine control module may cause the IAC to malfunction due to poor electrical connections.
- Defective engine control module: A faulty ECM with corrupted software or technical glitches could send incorrect signals, making the valve malfunction.
Can You Clean an Idle Air Control Valve?
Yes, cleaning the idle air control valve is possible. However, you’ll need to work with the electrical connections to access it properly. So, it’s best to have a mechanic handle it for you.
Here are some steps they’ll follow:
- Locate the valve (typically mounted on or near the throttle body).
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent an electric shock.
- Detach the valve’s electrical connector.
- Unscrew any bolts securing the valve and remove it.
- Spray throttle body cleaner or carb cleaner onto the valve and scrub away carbon deposits with a small brush.
- Wipe off any excess cleaner and reinstall the valve.
How Do You Maintain Your Idle Air Control Valve?
In addition to following your vehicle’s recommended regular maintenance routine, to prevent an idle issue, you should:
- Avoid short trips: Frequent short trips may not allow the engine to warm up thoroughly, which can lead to condensation and soot buildup. Drive your vehicle for 10-15 minutes for the engine to reach its optimal operating temperature.
- Check for a vacuum leak: If there’s a vacuum leak, excessive dirt and contaminants may reach the IAC valve. So schedule an inspection to replace any damaged or worn vacuum hoses.
- Clean the throttle body: A dirty throttle body can lead to dirt entering the IAC valve. Clean the throttle body regularly using throttle body cleaner.
- Use high-quality fuel: This can help prevent carbon deposits from forming. Low-quality fuel doesn’t burn as efficiently, which sometimes results in carbon deposits on engine components like the IAC valve.
Get a Smooth Idling Engine with AutoNation Mobile Service
The idle air control valve is essential for regulating airflow to your engine when it’s idling. However, a faulty IAC valve can cause a rough idle and lead to poor engine performance, which can be dangerous for you.
And if you’re unsure how to deal with this faulty valve, AutoNation Mobile Service has got you covered! Our mobile mechanics can easily replace your valve from your driveway. We’re available seven days a week and offer a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty on all repairs.
Reach out to us for a hassle-free idle air control valve replacement.