C30 Idle Air Control Valve Issue

Hey, I've got a 2008 Volvo C30, gasoline engine, that's giving me some grief. It's got about 196k km on the clock. The check engine light is on, and I pulled the codes – looks like something's up with the idle air control valve. It keeps stalling at idle, which is super annoying. I'm guessing it's the IAC valve itself, but I haven't torn anything apart yet. Anyone seen this before?

4 comment(s)

Sounds familiar. Has the throttle body ever been cleaned? A heavily contaminated intake can cause similar issues with idle speed control. Before replacing the IAC valve, might be worth checking that. Does the engine run okay otherwise?

Throttle body cleaning... hmm, not recently. I've done basic maintenance, but never really focused on the intake. Is cleaning it myself a pain, or should I just bite the bullet and take it somewhere? Any special cleaners needed?

Cleaning it isn't rocket science, but it can be messy. You'll need throttle body cleaner and some basic tools. If you're not comfortable, or just don't have the time, a shop can knock it out pretty quick. However, given the stored error and stalling, it might be more than just a cleaning will fix. Getting it properly diagnosed at a workshop is probably the best bet.

You were right. Took it to a shop. Turns out the intake was heavily contaminated, gunked up the IAC valve. They cleaned everything up, but the valve was shot. New IAC valve and a thorough cleaning set me back 425€, but she's running smooth as silk now. Thanks for the help!

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