Fast idling when cold
 

My 2002 Protege5 (manual tranny, 46k miles) is idling at 2000 rpm when the car is cold. When the car is warmed up, it idles normally again. The engine check light came on and I took it to the auto parts store. The computer diagnostic showed the code for a vacuum tube leak. However, I hear no general sucking sounds under the hood.

Anyone have a thought on this perplexing issue?

thx,
Steve

I'm inclined to agree with the computer then. I don't know how to determine the specific location of the 'leak' though... If someone would please share, that'd be great, as I suspect a vacuum leak on my 78 Caprice. LOL

Most cars will idle high when cold. Mine (2001 ES) idles near 2000 rpm when cold during winter (MN)

I would think the same thing if there wasn't an error code...

it just started idling high a couple days ago. it never used to do it. the high idling started at same time as the check engine light turned on. perplexing

I'm no expert by any means, but a few weeks ago my daughters Accord was throwing a CEL and everything semed to be running OK except for a slightly elevated idle. I checked for leaks and found her PCV valve was loose and almost all the way off.
I tightened it, reset the ECU and no CEL since.

Just replace all your rubber vacuum lines, they aren't expensive and most likely will solve your problem, over time they crack in places and it might not be enough to make a noticable sound with all the other noises going on, but I would say that with your year car there probably is several cracks in your lines, don't forget to get the codes cleared

I live in Ottawa Canada, I have fast iddling too on a 01 Protege SE. Thats usually when its bellow -10C outside. Goes to around 2000 then progressivly drops. Started using a block heater and the idle dropped to around 1000 on cold days. When it warms up im usually around 300-500.

thanks for the responses. i checked PCV valve and connection: all is ok with that. replacing the vacuum tubes is certainly a next step. this is a good group. i appreciate the responses.