Idle Speed

NOTE: Before setting idle speed ensure MIL has/is not been on, ignition timing is correct, spark plugs and air cleaner are okay, and PCV system is operating properly.

NOTE: On models equipped with Daytime Running Lights (DRL), apply parking brake, and with engine running, ensure headlights are off.

Connect a tachometer. Start engine and run at 3000 RPM with no loads and transmission in Park or Neutral, until radiator fan comes on. Allow engine to idle.
Disconnect 2-pin connector from Idle Air Control (IAC) valve. See Fig 1 . If engine stalls, restart engine with accelerator slightly depressed. Stabilize RPM at 1000 and slowly release accelerator until engine idles. Check base idle speed. See IDLE SPEED SPECIFICATIONS . If necessary, turn idle adjusting screw to correct idle.

Fig 1: Disconnecting IAC Valve (Typical)
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA CO., INC.
Turn ignition off. Reconnect IAC valve 2-pin connector and remove BACK-UP RADIO fuse (7.5-amp) in main underhood fuse box for 10 seconds to reset ECM/PCM. Restart engine and allow to idle with no loads for one minute. Check curb idle speed. See IDLE SPEED SPECIFICATIONS .

Turn headlights on low and other accessories off. Idle engine for one minute and check load idle speed. See IDLE SPEED SPECIFICATIONS . With headlights on or with headlights off and blower motor switch set to high and A/C on, idle speed should be 720-820 RPM. If idle speed is not as specified, go to the TESTS W/O CODES article.

IDLE SPEED SPECIFICATIONS

Application

⁽¹⁾ Base Idle RPM

⁽²⁾ Curb Idle RPM

⁽³⁾ Load Idle RPM

2.2CL

500-600

650-750

⁽⁴⁾ 720-820

⁽¹⁾	Transmission in "N" or "P" and IAC valve disconnected and no accessory loads.

⁽²⁾	Transmission in "N" or "P", IAC valve connected and no accessory loads.

⁽³⁾	Transmission in "N" or "P", IAC valve connected and headlights on low.

⁽⁴⁾	With headlights on or with headlights off and blower motor switch set to high and A/C on, idle speed should be 720-820 RPM.