IAC valve?

[monkeez]

My wife has a Suzuki Grand Vitara and it has a problem that it cuts out when slowing down.
After hunting around on the net, it seems to be quite a common problem with these cars and it looks like the IAC (idle air control) valve needs cleaning.
One site suggested cleaning the throttle airways with carb cleaner - but not sure if thats the answer.
Has anyone any ideas on what to clean the IAC valve with ?

cheers

[ed taylor]

My wifes Vectra B had the same problem. I was able to clean the air valve, with carb cleaner, there was a small hole in the side (inside) of the throttle body, I managed to spray the cleaner in, it did the trick for a while. The best cleaning method is to remove it if you can though. But in the end I had to replace the air control valve as the " valve return spring" had gone weak and did not function proporly. But yes do try the carb cleaner first.

[monkeez]

Ive had the valve off to check that it still works - and it does (turn engine over and it moves).
They are really pricey things to buy tho £150+.
So i'll give the carb cleaner ago.
Is it best to have the engine running when spraying it?

[ed taylor]

I think you will find the engine will stall if you spray it whilst it is running unless you hold the throttle open a bit. I would try both. Spray it into the air valve, then start the engine after a few moments, then start the engine and hold the throttle open a little and spray it into the small hole in the side of the throtle body, you will need to remove the air intake pipe from the throttle body first though ( the engine may stall with out the pipe on too). I did all this to the Vectra B. But it still needed a new valve. your quoted price sounds about right too.

[monkeez]

cheers Ed, i'll give it a go.