My Honda Civic is pulsing while idle, what should I do?

Answer by  Tony07 (64)

This sounds like the Fast Idle Valve(FIV). Remove the intake air tube from the throttle body, start your engine and wait for erratic idle to start, and place your thumb over the lower port. If your idle returns to normal, then it's the FIV.

Answer by  setrip (158)

When a vehicle pulses it could be a number of things including, fuel injection, egr sensor, etc. I would take the vehicle to a shop to electronically diagnose.

Answer by  Advisor (1032)

This timing issue is most likely caused by improper tuning. When was last tune up? Depending on the year, a dealer can upgrade your plugs and wires for optimum performance.

Answer by  jlbonin (58)

It sounds like one of the sensors in the motor may be going. Try replacing the TPS sensor. That is the Throttle Position Sensor which regulates the idle.

Answer by  aofia (154)

You should check to see if it is the radiator. Usually if it begins to run out of water it starts to pulsate.

Answer by  k99 (489)

I would start by checking your fuel pressure. This can be done by hooking up a fuel pressure reader. Soemtimes with the fuel pump is going out it causes the vehicle to act like its not getting fuel at idel.

Answer by  Jaggers (1018)

Turn on your radio and find some music that is in sync with your car pulses. Now put on your best moves. Your car wants to dance. It's not very common so you should be proud to have such a talented car.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

Well first determine what the problem is. The first thing I would check is the IAC valve. It may need to be remove and then cleaned. Next thin to check is that you have a steady fuel flow and the pump isn't surging. Then finally look for vacuum leaks around the manifold area.

Answer by  ace99reaper (46)

im not sure but i had the same problem with my honda civics 2002 and it seems honda has that problem it has to do with the gas valve or at least that was what was wrong with my car

Answer by  classicist66 (14)

Pulsing is not necessarily an idication of a problem with a car, check to make sure that the car isn't about to stall when idle, otherwise you're fine.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

The first thing I would check is all your filter to make sure they are clean. Then clean any sensors they may be dirty. Pay special attention to the idle air control valve because this is the most likely cause. Carbon can build up around the piston and cause surging.