Idle Air Control Motor: Operation: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan, 2004 Dodge Caravan, and 2004 Chrysler Town & Country. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The PCM adjusts engine idle speed through the idle air control valve to compensate for engine load, coolant temperature or barometric pressure changes.

The throttle body has an air bypass passage that provides air for the engine during closed throttle idle. The idle air control valve regulates air flow through the bypass passage.

The PCM controls engine idle speed by adjusting the position of the idle air control valve. The adjustments are based on inputs the PCM receives. The inputs are from the throttle position sensor, crankshaft position sensor, coolant temperature sensor, MAP sensor, vehicle speed sensor and various switch operations (brake, park/neutral, air conditioning).

When engine rpm is above idle speed, the IAC is used for the following functions:

Off-idle dashpot
Deceleration air flow control
A/C compressor load control (also opens the passage slightly before the compressor is engaged so that the engine rpm does not dip down when the compressor engages)