Hello fellow Saturn enthusiasts! I’m new here so I’ve tried to “search” my issue so it’s not on the incorrect thread but I can’t seem to find my exact issue. I have a 2005 Saturn Vue with the 3.5L V-6, automatic trans, 211,000 miles on the clock. I’ve recently started having idling issues that are slowly becoming worse. My car used to idle fine after warming up but now it dies at all temps, especially with the AC on and in gear. I recently replaced the battery and starter due to cranking problems. The car cranks beautifully but fires up with excessive cranking, maybe 5 seconds where it used to start immediately. I was having this problem before I replaced the starter and battery. The timing belt was replaced about 2 years ago and the spark plugs were replaced at the same time along with all 6 coils. The car runs fine from 1000rpm and up with no hesitation or check engine light. Thoughts? Prayers?

 

Vacuum leak or IAC valve.

Spray around where the intake manifold runners meet the cylinder heads. Any increase in idle speed means air is being sucked in around the intake manifold gasket and is not being accounted for by the air fuel mix by the ECU. This would lean out the mixture, possibly making it harder to start the vehicle which would otherwise be running a more rich mix at startup.

Could also be the idle air control valve needs a cleaning or replacement? Have you cleaned the throttle body lately?

 

I looked for an idle control valve online (Napa, Oreillys, Autozone) but they don’t show one. I’m going to go get some throttle body cleaner and give that a shot. I’ll give update soon…

 

Looks like your idle control is similar to my L series v-6. It is strictly computer controlled throttle plate, no idle air bypass.
Try this procedure.

 

I will definitely give this a shot. Thank you!

 

I cleaned the throttle body, which was very dirty, and then performed the idle “re-learn” and now it idles with the A/C on and in “drive” with no issues! Thank you guys so much!

 

Excellent.
Thanks Andy.

 

Nice catch, Andy!