2001 Pathfinder Idle Problems (3.5L)

[rbr16]

Hi, I've just dumped over $500 into my pathfinder trying to get it to idle right. When at stoplights the RPM hovers between 750 and 1000 for a few seconds and then it feels like it misses and dies down. Half of the time it recovers and revs back up just to repeat the process and eventually dies. We set the RPM up but that isn't safe with the slick winter roads as it causes the ABS to engage inorder to stop. I've cleaned the intake and the stall vacuum thing. A code came up so I replaced the Idle Control Valve $$$ and this didn't fix the problem.

I'm not a mechanic but I was wondering if the throttle position sensor or the vacuum stall thing was the culprit. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[fueler]

The code was for the idle contol valve? Have you tried cleaning the MAF sensor?

[Transtek]

This is definately the MAF sensor as the same thing happened to me last year and gradually got worse, stalling the truck whenever it felt like it (not good when going round a corner, I can tell you!)But, be very careful, the MAF is VERY expensive to replace, so have a go cleaning it. I needed a new one as I disconnected it while the engine was still running (a big No-No as it completely destroys the sensor, as I found out to my -but hopefully not your- cost).A good idea is to disconnect the battery the night before you plan on cleaning it, negative lead first, then positive, then the next day, disconnect the MAF, unscrew the two star-shaped bolts and clean with an elctronic cleaner, replace, being very careful not to damage it and making sure it is in the same way as you took it out, connect it up and away you go!At the same time, it might be worth cleaning the throttle position valve, which is easy enough, just make sure you mark clearly where it is aligned BEFORE loosening it, as it is very position-sensitive, again, as I found out! Use some throttle body cleaner on the valve and inside the throttle body where it comes out.With those 2 procedures, your truck should be as good as new, as mine has worked fine ever since. (2001 3.5L XE).Hope that helps!