Idle Air Control Motor: Operation

The motor controls air flow through a passage connected to both intake manifold plenums. The PCM operates the idle air control motor. The PCM adjusts engine idle speed through the idle air control motor to compensate for engine load or ambient conditions.

The idle air control motor pintle protrudes into a housing connected to the idle air passage. The pintle controls air flow through the intake manifold while the engine idles. By extending or retracting the pintle, the PCM controls adjusts idle speed for different operating conditions.

The PCM adjusts the idle air control motor based on inputs it receives. The inputs affecting idle speed include throttle position, crankshaft position, engine coolant temperature, plus brake switch and air conditioning request signals. By increasing airflow when the throttle blade closes quickly at road speeds, the PCM prevents deceleration die out.