Car Stalls at Idle: Troubleshooting Guide

Car Stalls at Idle: Troubleshooting Guide

Quick Answer: If your car stalls at idle—especially at red lights or when stopped—the most common culprits are a failing idle air control valve (IACV), vacuum leaks, a dirty throttle body, or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor (MAF). Diagnosis starts with checking for error codes and inspecting hoses and sensors. Many fixes are DIY-friendly and … Read more

How to Fix Rough Idle at Startup: A Master Technician’s Step-by-Step Guide

How to Fix Rough Idle at Startup

If your car shudders, bucks, or threatens to stall the moment you turn the key—especially on a chilly morning—you’re dealing with a rough idle at startup. It’s one of the most common yet frustrating issues drivers face. Left unaddressed, it can lead to poor fuel economy, failed emissions tests, or even engine damage over time. … Read more

How to Read and Clear Check Engine Light Codes

How to Read and Clear Check Engine Light Codes

How to Read and Clear Check Engine Light Codes: A Master Technician’s Complete Guide Last Updated: December 2025 | Written by ASE-Certified Master Technician  It was a Tuesday morning in late October, the kind where the first frost coats the windshields and customers flood the shop with cold-weather complaints. A woman pulled up in a … Read more