Stumbling Suzuki Sidekick

Q: Greg, I have a 1989 Suzuki Sidekick. When it’s in gear and stopped at a light or stop sign, the engine pulsates. If I turn off the heater, lights, etc., it corrects itself. Also, if I put it in neutral it stabilizes. What could be the problem? — Larry

A: It’s pretty clear, Larry, that your Suzuki doesn’t like the load it is receiving under low rpm situations like you describe above. Areas of concern are the EGR Solenoid Valve and Throttle Opener Solenoid Valve, a dirty carburetor or a bad carburetor gasket. (Yes, your ‘89 Sidekick has a carburetor.)

It could also be an ignition-timing problem or a bad wire going to the coil or distributor. The cheapest fix? It may be that your idle is set too low on your carburetor, and all you’ll need is the turn of a screw.