90 325i surging rpm 1000, check engine light, A/C suspect

Need technical Q/A then you're in the right place

Moderator: martauto

User avatar
str255
E30 Zone Newbie
E30 Zone Newbie
Posts: 3
Joined: Fri Apr 15, 2016 11:00 pm
Location: Las Vegas

Post Sat Apr 16, 2016 10:19 pm

Very smooth ride, no problems. Today, drove slow in traffic with a/c on, idled for half hour with a/c. Then check engine light went on, idle surged wandering about 1000 rpm.

Shut car down. Restarted without A/C. Problem disappeared. Everything OK.

What could it be? Old 1990 BMW 325i.
User avatar
str255
E30 Zone Newbie
E30 Zone Newbie
Posts: 3
Joined: Fri Apr 15, 2016 11:00 pm
Location: Las Vegas

Post Mon Apr 18, 2016 10:41 pm

problem, only happened when running idle for a long time. I think it's the A/C load. Try running at speed with A/C, or not using A/C at idle. :D
User avatar
Brianmoooore
E30 Zone Team Member
E30 Zone Team Member
Posts: 49359
Joined: Mon Jan 10, 2005 11:00 pm

Post Mon Apr 18, 2016 11:06 pm

Idle speed should increased lightly when aircon is switched on. This is achieved by applying 12 volts from the aircon switch to a small 4(?) pin socket on the engine loom very close to the engine ECU. Check that this plug is connected.
Check that the throttle position switch is working correctly, and switching the ECU to the idle map at idle.
Check for inlet side air leaks.