Idle Issues

Aaron_M · 05-13-2006, 01:31 PM

I just bought a 2001 Optima with about 61k on it. I got a decent deal, so I wasn't too concerned with the one issue it has. When it's idling, it hunts and misses some. It has the original timing belt, which I'm going to change this week. Could it have stretched and be causing the miss (if so, would there be any serious damage)? I put new Bosh platinums in it and some SeaFoam cleaner in the tank, but nothing has changed.
The check engine light isn't on, so I'm pretty sure it's not one of the sensors (except maybe a worn TPS). Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!

Aaron

skidoofast · 05-13-2006, 05:01 PM

there is a possibility that the belt has jumped one or two coggs, this will not hurt the valves, but it will cause it to run rough, and possibly seem to have low power/performance. when you replace the belt make sure that you replace the tensioner as well, with 61K you are out of warrenty because you are second owner so it is a good idea, this is an interference engine and if you have been reading recintly when the belt breaks it makes for one unhappy kia owner.

I would also check the fuel pressure regulator on this vehicle, they are known to leak, shut the car off, unhook the vacume hose off the regulator, if you dont see fuel in the tube on the regulator let it sit for 5 minutes and recheck for fuel, if there is fuel in the nipple then it needs to be replaced

Aaron_M · 05-22-2006, 02:08 PM

I changed the timing belt and it runs great. It was missing 2 teeth and very stretched. It also seemed that it had skipped about 2 teeth on the exaust cam. Thanks for the info!

Aaron