I recently purchased a 94 Civic Lx because I needed something more economical. I love this car but it has an annoying issue with the idle. It will fluctuatewhen the car is at low rpm's 1000-1500. It will bounce very noticably. I don't have a lot of money but we think its the idle control valve. Does this sound right? If you unplug the ICV the check engine light comes on and the idle will return to normal. Anyone else heard of this issue. My motor is 1.6.

 

yes, it could be your iacv, maybe your O2 sensor, just try cleaning the valve to cure the problem.

 

can anyone upload a picture of the idle air control valve? i have 97 civic lx and i cant find it! i have factory manual but pictures are weak... thanks ?

 

go buy a haynes book but its on the back of ur intake manifold also when u buy an o2 sensor if u do buy it for a 98 gst same thing but cheaper gst 60 stock honda o2 145.00 from advanced auto u do have to put your o2 plug on the gst one

 

Don't just go buying and installing new parts, try to figure out exactly what the issue is first.

Has the idle always surged like that since you bought the car? Like ej6 said, try cleaning out the IACV with some carb cleaner, and give that a shot. Next, look on the bottom of your Throttle Body and see if there is an FITV valve. I dont think there is on your car, but I could be wrong.

Then, look for vacuum leaks. Carb cleaner comes in handy for this too. Spray it around where you think the leak might be. If the motors charactistics change (bogs, revs higher, etc..) then you've found your leak.

Try bleeding the coolant system, air bubbles can cause surging (See my DIY in the drivetrain DIY section)

Start there, and work your way forward.