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Car almost dies when shifting into gear when cold out

  

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I have a 2002 Mercury Grand Marquis with 165k. When it's cold out (usually below freezing) after I start the car and put it in gear, it wants to die. It hasn't actually died on me yet but the rpms drop to almost nothing then it surges back to life. No codes. This happens in both reverse and drive. 


2 Answers
4

engine doesn't have enough power in idle. Standard engine tune up procedure applies, starting with easy things first.

Check/clean:

  • air filter
  • spark plugs
  • fuel pressure
  • catalytic converter
  • Intake/throttle body/sensors
  • vacuum leaks

after that, the engine will need to be scoped with the aid of diagnostic interface tools.


2

 That sounds like your idle air control (IAC) module is failing. They say you can clean them but it's easy enough to just replace. You can get one at most auto parts stores.


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