1998 Kia Sportage - Stalling in traffic

[Andrew Clarke]

Need some advice here fellows, Whenever I come to a halt my 98 sportage sputters as if it wants to stall, any ideas what could cause this and how to fix?

Thanks in advance for your comments.

[ron1004]

It sounds like a sticky Idle Speed Control (ISC) valve that needs cleaning with carb cleaner.

The ISC is also refered to as IAC (idle air control).

Do a search here for "idle problem" and I'm sure you'll find a good deal of info.

BTW its not good practice to use real names on public forums like this - theres some nasty ones that prowl the net.

[Andrew Clarke]

Hey thanx alot, I'll look into it.

[magzy1827]

hi there...had exactly the same problem...tried 3 different garages before i finally got it fixed...it was the lumder sensor in the exhaust
(think thats what its called).once they changed that and put it on diagnostic to reset it the car is now running like a dream...the part cost about £70 then you have the labour to fit it..hope this helps

[menotthat]

does it splutter or just quietly die at the lights. had mine quietly die and changed the air filter and that fixed it. very dirty filter.

[kellbell77]

I have 2001 kia, did the same thing, changed oxygen sensor, air filter, changed gas grade, oil change, FINALLY, got it figured out, no check engine light, till 1 day poof it was there, took it to autozone, code p0304, misfire in 4 (common misfires in kias) pulled #4 spark plug, major oil, pulled off valve cover, it was the gasket. Someone didn't put in on right, all fixed and no almost stalling or idling issues at stop lights.

Good luck.......

Idle controal thingy, is normally the last thing, as been told by KIA, but then again, they told me the o2 sensor and they were way off..........

[JTROCKS1]

2000 sportage, I had the same symptoms as you. Like kellbell77 mine was a leaky valve cover gasket. Replaced it along with the plugs and all it right with the world.