I've got a 98 Honda Civic HX Coupe/ Auto 4x4.

When I start the car, it stays at 1.5-2 RPM and then slams into gear when I shift to reverse (which, I have to play w/ the shifter in order to get it to shift bc I think the gears are misaligned) due to the high RPM, I would assume. I will be driving and if my foot is just resting on the gas; not pushing the gas, the gar is bouncing between 1 and 1.5 RPM and does the same thing when I am stopped, idling, in park, etc. Is this a vacuum hose problem? Could it be something as simple as a fuse? I replaced the transmission a year ago and have gone 20k on it, so I am hoping it's not the transmission. The car is maintained well; regularly watch all the fluids etc. It's not overheating either.

 

Is the CEL ON?

Yes, you might have a vacuum leak (check hoses and connections leading to the IM) or an intake air leak (throttle body or IM). Might also be dirty IACV.

 

you have a 4x4 civic?

the gear lever cable might be out of adjustment. do a search on the forum about that and you should find info on it.

the rpm issue could be a vacuum leak, or possibly a clogged IACV. go to the DIY section for instructions on how to clean it.