Q: Rough idle.

asked by on December 22, 2015

My engine is idling roughly.

Car idle is rough Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

A rough engine idle could be caused by a few different things. Misfiring, fuel issues, and engine timing to name a few. The first place I would recommend starting would be the ignition and fuel systems. Have a professional do an inspection of these systems to ensure that the fuel is reaching the engine properly and that the ignition system is burning the fuel properly. If any issues are found in these two systems they will indeed contribute to a rough idle. Have the problem fixed as soon as possible to avoid future engine damage.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Motor shakes
Hi there. Sounds like you might be having multiple issues. Because of the safety concern with the steering wheel locking and the limited amount of information, I am going to suggest you not drive the vehicle and seek help from...
Squeaking noise while driving
Hi there. This is possible, especially if the intensity of the noise changes as the weight of the vehicle is shifted from side to side. Wheel bearing failures will generally cause a constant growling noise but you may be in...
Driver's side window fell off track
It sounds like your window regulator has broken. The window regulator is composed of cables and pulleys that raise and lower the window. Oftentimes, the pulleys are made of plastic, and will break. This will cause the window to drop...
Car alarm not turning off
Have your battery tested. Most likely it is worn causing low system voltage to the rest of the cars computers. This will cause a number of issues - including problems that will set the alarm off unwarranted. If you need...
pinging in engine
It is possible that your ignition system (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-a-car-ignition-system-works) could be causing this issue. The combustion of fuel is a two part process: the introduction of fuel and the ignition of fuel. Everything you have done to resolve this issue has...
Car stopped after rough idle
This is a common symptom of a faulty idle air control module. This module regulates the control of air being mixed with fuel at idle. When this is faulty, it will cause an imbalanced amount of air and fuel to...
Headlights
Hello...the headlight circuit is fairly limited in extent, so if you request a headlight circuit diagnostic (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/headlight-is-not-working-inspection), a certified mechanic will get this resolved for you promptly. It is possible for both bulbs, left and right side (the low beam...
how to find TDC
The best way to find TDC on your 2001 Ford Focus is to purchase a vehicle service repair manual for your car. This will give you the information you're looking for so you can make the repairs to your vehicle's...
Intermittent miscommunication between acc. pedal and throttle body 2007 Mazda CX-7
Hi there, from your symptom description, it sounds like your throttle position sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/when-i-press-on-gas-pedal-it-s-not-accelerating-by-carl-p) is failing. Check for problem codes, whether the Check Engine or electronic throttle warning lights are on. I would recommend an engine inspection (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/engine-hesitates-during-acceleration-inspection) by a...

Related articles

2012 Nissan Rogue vs. 2012 Ford Escape: Which One Should I Buy?
Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) use the chassis of a truck to provide superior structure, with a larger size and often poor gas mileage. While that isn’t always true, SUVs have a raised ground clearance and are generally meant to haul...
How to Buy a Good Quality Idler Pulley
The The idler pulley system drives a car’s alternator and is part of a belt and pulley system that also covers power steering, the air compressor, and other devices. The pulley is essential; with all of the important equipment that...
Understanding Nissan Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The Nissan service indicator lights let you know when and what service your car needs.