problem with vectra almost stalls

[Hayley]

I have a 1999 vectra 2.0 auto, which almost stalls when im in a stop start
traffic que, the rev counter seems to bounce each time i come to a stop
down to 500 revs with the car shuddering where its about to cut out.

any advice or opinions, much appreciated.

 

[mikeFNB]

doubt it is the ecu
i'd clean the idle control valve


mike

 

[Hayley]

Thanks Mike,

is it right that the air flow sensor is a common problem too?

 

[me140]

You get fault codes for air flow meter when the car is stalling - it will be
fine. As Mike mentioned, the idle valve will be your most likely cause.

 

[Gary Millar]

Idle control for my opinion as well. Take it off and give it a good clean
with carb cleaner . The problem seems to be more prevalent in cars that do a
lot of short runs. Also clean out the hoses to and from the idle valve as
the came bcome full of mayonnaise.

 

[Hayley]

Thanks for everyones advice, I will be doing everything suggested

 

[mikeFNB]

just watch the very thin gasket doesn't split, hold the ICV inplace whilst
you loosened/removed the two starbolts, then gently pull it away, check the
gasket is attached to one of the two surfaces and not both as it will split.

mike

 

[Hayley]

I did all the things suggested and it seems to have fixed the problem,
the whole thing was filthy inside,

Thanks

 

[mikeFNB]

glad to help
mike

I did all the things suggested and it seems to have fixed the problem,
the whole thing was filthy inside,

Thanks

 

[Mike]

And thanks for coming back and confirming that someones suggested fix
worked. Always nice to know these things.

Mike

 

[Mike Dodd]

I did all the things suggested and it seems to have fixed the problem,
the whole thing was filthy inside,

Thanks

From experience, the problem could return in a few weeks / months, if
the ICV was nearing the end of its life; keep an eye on it and don't be
discouraged if it starts doing the same thing again, later. If this does
happen take a look around the scrappers - I picked up a replacement
for £10 which saw my Cav happy for another two years (until scrapped).