Inconsistent Idling In Cold Weather

[mloconzolo]

I've been struggling to figure out what's going on with my 2001 525i since I bought it this past March. Basically, in cold weather, the idle will dip when I'm stopped. It will drop from ~900RPM down to <500RPM, and then the car will recognize that it's about to stall and kick the idle back up to a normal level. It'll will dip back down again and the loop will continue until I start moving or the car is at a normal operating temperature. Every so often it will actually stall.

I've taken it to two mechanics and had the car tuned up back in the spring, and they don't know what's wrong. I know it only happens in cold weather because it's happening again now that the nights are dipping below 50F, but didn't do it all summer.

Does anyone have any ideas what could be causing this problem?

Thanks for any help...!

[billB]

Mloconzolo

Independent of cold weather I would check the following first. Do your self a favor "forget about cold/hot weather- for now at least" and check either the idle control valve or the throttle switch.

Good luck
Billb

[robby c]

Originally posted by billB@Oct 5 2004, 04:25 PM
Mloconzolo

Independent of cold weather I would check the following first. Do your self a favor "forget about cold/hot weather- for now at least" and check either the idle control valve or the throttle switch.

Good luck
Billb

[snapback]205217[/snapback]

Mine seems to have the same problem. Billb where can i get information on what you have mentioned as the possible cause? Is there a downloadable 528i owners manual?

Cheers pal

[billB]

I don't think ICV or throttle switches are listed in the BMW owner manual. Bentley's is more like it.

I may have some references why don't you e mail me and I'll see what I have for you.

regards
bill

[mloconzolo]

Originally posted by billB@Oct 5 2004, 10:25 AM
Mloconzolo

Independent of cold weather I would check the following first. Do your self a favor "forget about cold/hot weather- for now at least" and check either the idle control valve or the throttle switch.

Good luck
Billb

[snapback]205217[/snapback]

Thank you, I'll check it out!

Mike