I have a Honda civic 1992 1.5 engine. I have been experiencing an unusually low idle while the car is in drive and hot. While accelerating I also experience a sputtering from a stop position. These symptoms have gradually become worse over the last two weeks. My ignition system was replaced approximately a year ago. WHen I replaced all my plugs and wires I tried to ajust the idle screw with barely any response from it, today I again attemped to ajust and still very little increase or decrease. I'm kind of out of ideas without replacing piece by piece. Any ideas or help would be greatly appreciated.

 

Is the CEL ON?

Besides the plugs and wires, did you also replace the distributor cap and rotor? If so, the next step would be to clean the IACV (EACV) on the throttle body. Click the IACV link in my signature.

 

the Cel is not on. I already cleaned the Iacv and I also took the FITV apart and tried to change it's position. How can you determine if the Iacv needs to be replaced?

 

Have you replaced or checked the cap and rotor?

 

With the engine hot and idling, remove the connector from the EACV. Does the idle speed drop? If not, consider replacing the EACV.

 

Yes I replaced the cap and rotor and the speed does drop when the plug is pulled on the IACV (with engine hot). I removed the FITV (with engine hot)and noticed an unusually high vacuum from the lower port inside the the air intake. does FITV have anything to do with the idle if so is there a test to determine when to change The fitv??

 

By the way the quick links you provide with your responses are very informitive. Thank you...

 

Yes, FITV has to do with idle. However, a faulty FITV would cause surging and an abnormally high idle.

The idle adjustment screw doesn't make very noticeable changes when you turn it. The changes are very subtle.

 

the car is stalling at lights what would you recomend to raise the idle??

 

The FITV is not a likely culprit, as Trust mentioned. Check whether the PCV valve and hose are clogged. If so, replace or clean.