GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

    Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  2. Remove the engine cover. Refer to Engine Cover Replacement in Interior Trim.

  3. Object Number: 12886  Size: SH
  4. Disconnect the harness connector from the idle air control (IAC) valve.

  5. Object Number: 12909  Size: SH
  6. Remove the IAC valve attaching fasteners.
  7. Notice: If the IAC valve has been in service: DO NOT push or pull on the IAC valve pintle. The force required to move the pintle may damage the threads on the worm drive. Also, DO NOT soak the IAC valve in any liquid cleaner or solvent, as damage may result.


    Object Number: 12910  Size: SH
  8. Remove the IAC valve assembly.
  9. Remove the O-ring.

Cleaning and Inspection Procedure

  1. Clean the IAC valve O-ring sealing surface, the pintle valve seat, and the air passage.
  2. • Use a carburetor cleaner and a parts cleaning brush in order to remove any carbon deposits. Follow the instructions on the container.
    • Do not use a cleaner that contains methyl ethyl ketone. MEK is an extremely strong solvent and not necessary for this type of deposit.
    • Shiny spots on the pintle or seat are normal and do not indicate misalignment or a bent pintle shaft.
    • If the air passage has heavy deposits, remove the throttle body for a complete cleaning. Refer to Throttle Body Assembly Replacement .
  3. Inspect the IAC valve O-ring for cuts, cracks, or distortion. Replace the O-ring if damaged.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 17065  Size: SH

    Important: If you are installing a new IAC valve, replace the valve with an identical part. The IAC valve pintle shape and diameter are designed for the specific application.

  1. Measure the distance A between tip of the IAC valve pintle and the mounting flange.
  2. If the distance is more than 28 mm, use finger pressure in order to slowly retract the pintle. The force required to retract the pintle of a new valve will not cause damage to the valve.


    Object Number: 12910  Size: SH
  3. Lubricate the IAC valve O-ring with clean engine oil.
  4. Install the IAC valve assembly.

  5. Object Number: 12909  Size: SH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  6. Install the attaching fasteners.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the IAC valve fasteners to 3.0 N·m (26 lb in).


    Object Number: 12886  Size: SH
  8. Connect the IAC harness connector.
  9. Install the engine cover. Refer to Engine Cover Replacement in Interior Trim.
  10. Connect the negative battery cable.
  11. Reset the IAC valve pintle position.

IAC Valve Reset Procedure

  1. Turn ON the ignition for 20 seconds.
  2. Turn OFF the ignition for 10 seconds.
  3. Start the engine.
  4. Check for the proper idle speed.