95 318is idle problem when starting

[Mario Milewski]

Hi,

I have a 95 318is, 5spd and sometimes when I start the car the idle goes up then it goes down , this continues for few seconds and then idle becomes stable (in some cases the rpms go so much down that the car almost stalls). The problem occurs more often during hot weather or when the engine is warm. I have no problem with the idle once the engine runs, i.e. when I stop at the lights the idle is stable. I have checked the engine codes but nothing shows up. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank You,

Mario

[SHAHAB323IS]

try this

Idle Control Valve Write up; ICV clean DIY - Bimmerforums - The Ultimate BMW Forum

[Mario Milewski]

Thanks for the advice, I have cleaned the idle control valve and replaced the o2 sensor but problem still persists. I have noticed that when o2 sensor is disconnected it helps a lot. I have also checked the EVAP canister but it looks good, no cracks or anything. Could this erratic idle at startup be possibly caused by faulty knock sensor? From what I know replacing the knock sensor on M42 engine is a major job. I was looking on the internet for some write up on how to replace knock sensor but I did not find much.

Thank you for any help on this.

Mario

[yumtum]

i had similar problems on my 318is saloon m44 16v engine and i had the camshaft positioning sensor replaced. only use genuine sensor after market will not last as the heat will get to it

[jhawth1]

Wow I pop on this forum once and a while and it seems everytime I find exactly what I am looking for.

This is a great forum and as a new owner of a e36 I am happy to have found it.

Thanks to all who post this great info

[Delmarco]

I had that problem. After cleaning the Idle Control valve and you still have rough idling. It means you have to replace the Idle Control pulley (not sure if that is the name). On the 318 M42 (my car) engine it looks different than the newer M44.
1995 318s had either 42 or 44 so check what you have first at RealOEM.com Online BMW Parts Catalog
then you can replace the pulley. I also recommend replacing the pulley belts at the same time since you will have to remove them as well. You will save in labor $$$ down the line.

A new 318i pulley goes anywhere from $30s and up. Belts are about the same.

[ncktuley1]

why would the pulley matter? and im having the same problem, i replaced the icv and o2 sensor. No cracks in the vacuum lines. but the crankshaft sensor looked to be dented just a little bit. would that effect it that much?

[Lord Vader]

All your intake lines are okay? What about the line under the manifold? If outcomes loose or cracks it causes idle issues.