I’ve read up on how the IACV error code is super common and that you can clean it instead of replacing it and be good to go.

Like me everyone else, I experienced a funky idle and after removing the entire throttle body and giving all components a good scrubbing, the funky idle is gone and she purrs like a kitten! But the CEL is still on and still throwing the same error code.

My question: are you supposed to manually clear the code after correcting the problem, or is it supposed to clear automatically? And does the fact that it hasn’t done so on it’s own mean that I didn’t fully fix the problem?

Sorry for discussing a common topic, but I haven’t found any conversations that discuss my specific problem with the CEL still being on.

Thanks in in advance!

 

What year? And what DTC is stored?

1995 and earlier should've cleared on its own. 1996 and newer, due to OBD-II code storing requirements, will keep the light on until the ECU runs that particular test and sees that it passes a certain number of times.

 

If you do not have an obd2 scanner to clear the code, reset your ECU by removing the ECU fuse under the hood and replacing it after a few seconds.

 

Clear code.

 

If it's an OBDI and you still have the CEL on with code 14, that means there is a break in the circuit. Start by testing the resistance of the IACV coil. Unless the problem still exists, an OBD1 will turn out the CEL when you turn the key off and restart. The code however will stay stored until you disconnect the battery or remove the fuse to reset it.

Again if it is an OBD1, or an OBDII with two wire IACV, idle speed should drop (and throw code) when you unplug the IACV with the engine running, then resume to normal when you plug it back in. If it doesn't do this, the IACV is not working and you're just lucky it's idling at a reasonable speed.

 

Thanks for all the replies, everyone!

JPhilBradley: It's a 2000 and it's a DX. The code I'm getting is P0505. It's been a few days now, and I'm still pulling that same code, although the idle and acceleration have improved dramatically.

Everyone else, thanks for the advice! I'll try pulling the ECU fuse and hopefully the CEL will stay off.