Poor running

[Minesthechevy]

Hello from a newbie

1998 Saxo 1360cc auto, 177K kilometres, will often run without enthusiasm for the first 2 or 3 kilometres, and the engine intermittently races at 2k rpm when in neutral.

Disconnecting the battery momentarily removes these problems for a short while.

My local Citroen garage just give me a gallic shrug, autos are relatively rare here (France), they are not keen to work on it, and they have fobbed me off with an explanation that 'it's an auto, so it's your fault, Msieur'.

At the moment I'm ruling out an air leak, the plugs have a good colour.

All pointers gratefully received.

[AntscVTR]

Hello from a newbie

1998 Saxo 1360cc auto, 177K kilometres, will often run without enthusiasm for the first 2 or 3 kilometres, and the engine intermittently races at 2k rpm when in neutral.

Disconnecting the battery momentarily removes these problems for a short while.

My local Citroen garage just give me a gallic shrug, autos are relatively rare here (France), they are not keen to work on it, and they have fobbed me off with an explanation that 'it's an auto, so it's your fault, Msieur'.

At the moment I'm ruling out an air leak, the plugs have a good colour.

All pointers gratefully received.

This problem sounds like the Idle Air Control Valve is at fault, it's positioned on the Throttle Body and the engine can have an erratic idle if it's dirty or broken.

Here is a guide on how to locate and remove the valve http://www.saxperience.com/forum/showthread.php?t=174710 :y:

[Minesthechevy]

Thanks, I will investigate.

[axsaxoman]

make sure throttle cable is not too tight or throtlle stop has been sdjusted up --voltage at TPS sensor should be below 0,65v when throttle is shut --if not idle control will not work correctly as it thinks you are on light throttle

[Minesthechevy]

Thanks for that