My car won't idle, I have to keep my foot on the gas to keep it at about 1000 rpm. I had it scanned and it came with idle control sensor/valve/motor code (can't exactly remember). Can someone please let me know where it's located? Is it the metal/plastic piece on the throttle body? I was also told that coolant temperature sensor was bad and need a location of it too. Can anyone help? Pictures would help too. Thanks, Phil

The idle air control (IAC) motor is mounted by several screws to the throttle body. It has an electrical connector attached to it. I'll see if I can get you a picture. This sounds like it may be your problem. What is your specific model year and engine so I can get you a location on your Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor?

Thanks a lot, that's what I thought it was.

Is this the part in question?

(IMG:http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c382/mustangphil302/Cars/motor001-1.jpg)
(IMG:http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c382/mustangphil302/Cars/motor003.jpg)

It's a 1999 ES 2.4L. Thanks again for your help.

No, the sensor you have indicated is not the IAC motor. That's the Throttle Position (TP) Sensor. The IAC motor is a little harder to get to. Follow the Big air intake hose around to where it is connected to the throttle... see how it comes in from the Driver's side? Stand on the driver's side of the car and feel just directly below the hose. This is your sensor. I have attached a photo.





Sorry for the poor quality. It was hard to get my camera down in there. Here is what my manual says about replacing it:

1. Disconnect the electrical connector from the IAC motor.

2. Remove the IAC mounting screws (3) and detach the IAC motor from the throttle body. (There are 2 on the right side above and below where the electrical connects. and one on the left.)

3. Remove the O-ring and Install a new one. (Install a new O-ring regardless of whether you're going to reuse the old motor or a new one).

4. Installation is the reverse of removal.

(It seems pretty difficult to get to the mounting screws but I guess it would be easier with a magnetized screwdriver.)

Also -- to find your engine coolant sensor ... follow your lower radiator hose into where it clamps to the metal elbow. If you are standing in front, it is just towards your body screwed into the engine block. If you are standing on the driver's side, it is to the left.



You need make sure the igniton key is in the OFF position, drain about a gallon of coolant, disconnect the electrical connector, and carefully unscrew the sensor. Wrap the threads of the new sensor with Teflon tape if the new one isn't coated with thread sealant. Installation is the reverse of removal. Tighten the sensor to 22 ft-lbs. torque. Make sure to refill your coolant.

Piece of cake! Took no more than 25 minutes to replace both. I got the entire throttle body (of course they wouldn't sell me just the sensor) from the junkyard for 75 bucks. And new ect from Napa for $25. I didn't even drain the coolant, just unscrewed the ect and as soon as it was out I put my thumb over the hole and then put the new one in. I lost no more than 2-3oz of fluid. Thanks a bunch Nick!!!

Good job. How does she idle now, Phil?

Nick

Great! Just like it used to before the problem occured. Thanks again Nick!
Phil