Preliminary Checks

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 32 other vehicles, including the 2002 Mercury Sable, 2002 Mercury Mountaineer, 2002 Mercury Grand Marquis, 2002 Mercury Cougar, and 2002 Lincoln Town Car. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If engine runs normally after ignition switch is turned to OFF position, check for damaged ignition switch or IGN RUN or VPWR circuit for short to power. See WIRING DIAGRAMS article.

Check for vacuum leaks. Check for deposits on throttle plate. Check throttle linkage operation. Check for binding/sticking cruise control linkage. Check for air intake duct leaks. Check for leaking intake manifold gasket. Check Idle Air Control (IAC) or Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valves. Ensure vehicle is at normal operating temperature.