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Jeep Commander XH XK 2006-2010 Workshop Repair Manual digital download

Tools & consumables
- Basic hand tools: 8/10/12 mm sockets, ratchet, extensions, common Torx bits (T20/T25), flat & Phillips screwdrivers, pliers.
- Torque wrench (0–25 ft·lb / 0–34 N·m).
- Multimeter (DC volts & ohms).
- OBD-II scan tool (to read/clear codes and actuate IAC/monitor PID).
- Throttle-body / IAC-safe cleaner (no caustic oven cleaners).
- Soft-bristle brush, lint-free rags, small picks.
- Replacement IAC valve and new gasket/O‑ring (recommended) or throttle-body gasket.
- Safety: nitrile gloves, safety glasses.
- Optional: spray bottle with clean water for final wipe, dielectric grease.

Safety precautions
- Work on a cooled engine. Hot intake/engine parts cause burns.
- Disconnect negative battery terminal before disconnecting electrical parts unless using a scan tool that requires power. If you need to retain ECU memory, use a memory saver.
- Work in a well-ventilated area when spraying cleaners.
- Avoid spraying cleaner on electrical connectors or sensors.
- Support ducts and hoses so they won’t crack or break.

What the idle air control (IAC) does
- The IAC (or stepper/solenoid valve) controls bypass air around the throttle plate to regulate idle. Symptoms of a failing IAC: erratic idle, high idle, stalling, idle surging, and check-engine light with related codes (P0505, etc.).

Step-by-step procedure (remove, clean/test, reinstall or replace)
1. Preparation
- Park on level ground, set parking brake, engine cool.
- Disconnect negative battery terminal (or use memory saver if you must keep ECU memory).
- Gather tools and replacement gasket/IAC if replacing.

2. Locate IAC valve
- IAC is mounted on the throttle body or intake manifold near the throttle plate assembly. On XH/XK models it will be on the throttle body face or side—follow the intake tube from airbox to the throttle body; the IAC is a small cylindrical/plastic/metal device bolted to that housing.

3. Remove intake ducting and access
- Loosen hose clamps and remove intake ducting between airbox and throttle body to gain clear access.
- Remove any sensors or wiring harness clips in the way (label or note connections).

4. Disconnect electrical connector
- Depress tab and pull connector straight off. Avoid pulling on wires. Inspect connector for corrosion; clean with electrical contact cleaner if needed.

5. Remove IAC mounting bolts
- Use the correct socket or Torx and remove bolts holding IAC to throttle body. Support the valve while removing last bolt to prevent dropping.
- Remove IAC and gasket. Note gasket orientation.

6. Inspect throttle body and IAC
- Look for heavy carbon build-up on the valve pintle and throttle bore. Inspect gasket for damage. Check throttle plate for smooth operation and vacuum lines for leaks.

7. Clean IAC (if reusing)
- Spray throttle-body/IAC-safe cleaner on carbon deposits — do not soak electronic components. Use a soft brush to loosen carbon from the valve tip and bore.
- Wipe with lint-free rag and allow to dry completely.
- If the IAC is a stepper motor or has exposed electronics, be conservative: clean the pintle and mating surfaces only. If heavily corroded or sticky, replace the valve.

8. Test IAC electrically (basic)
- Multimeter: check continuity/resistance between the appropriate IAC pins per service manual. Expect continuity — an open circuit indicates failure. Do not apply raw 12 V to a stepper without procedure; use a scan tool to command the IAC and watch movement/PID.
- Scan tool: command valve to open/close; observe movement and IAC position PID. No movement or erratic position = replace.

9. Replace gasket & reinstall
- Fit new gasket/O‑ring seated correctly. Lightly coat O‑ring with clean oil if applicable.
- Position IAC on throttle body, start bolts by hand to avoid cross-threading.
- Torque bolts to manufacturer spec. If spec unknown, snug to ~7–10 ft·lb (9–14 N·m) — do not overtighten plastic housings.

10. Reconnect electrical connector and intake ducts
- Reconnect wiring and apply a small amount of dielectric grease if needed. Reinstall intake ducting, tighten hose clamps.

11. Reconnect battery & perform relearn
- Reconnect negative battery terminal.
- Clear any stored codes with scan tool.
- Relearn idle: start engine and let it warm to operating temperature with all accessories off. Let idle stabilize 2–5 minutes. If recommended by service manual: cycle ignition key ON (engine off) several times or use scan tool to command closed-loop. If engine stalls or idle is rough, follow scan-tool guided relearn (some Jeeps require specific steps — use OBD-II tool). Monitor IAC PID to ensure it moves and settles.

12. Final checks
- Check for vacuum leaks (listen for hissing, use spray mist test from a distance — watch RPM changes).
- Verify stable idle, no check-engine light, re-scan for codes.
- Road test to confirm drivability.

Common pitfalls & how to avoid them
- Breaking plastic connectors: depress tabs fully and pull straight; use pick to lift small clips.
- Reusing old gasket/O‑ring: always replace to avoid air leaks.
- Using the wrong cleaner: do NOT use strong caustic cleaners that can damage electronics or soft plastics. Use throttle-body or MAF/IAC-safe cleaner.
- Over-tightening bolts: can crack throttle-body or strip threads—use appropriate torque.
- Not performing relearn: results in poor idle even after cleaning; use scan tool if available.
- Not checking for vacuum leaks or a dirty throttle plate — cleaning IAC alone may not fix symptoms.
- Applying raw 12 V to the valve without following the correct procedure — can destroy the stepper/solenoid.
- Missing underlying issues: a failing TPS, vacuum leak, or MAF problem can mimic IAC failure—scan and diagnose first.

When to replace rather than clean
- Electrical failure (open circuit, shorted windings, erratic resistance).
- Valve mechanically seized or heavily corroded.
- Repeated failures or persistent codes after cleaning.
- If the valve has extensive pitting or the gasket surfaces are damaged.

Parts & part numbers
- IAC valve (OEM recommended) — replace with vehicle-specific part.
- New IAC gasket or O‑ring (always replace).
- Optional: throttle-body gasket if removed or damaged.

How each tool is used (short)
- Socket/ratchet/Torx: remove and install bolts; use the correct size to avoid rounding heads.
- Torque wrench: tighten bolts to spec, preventing overtightening.
- Multimeter: set to ohms to check continuity/resistance across IAC coil/terminals; set to volts to verify connector voltage (with key on / engine running as specified).
- OBD-II scan tool: read/clear codes, command IAC open/close, monitor PID during relearn.
- Cleaner & brushes: dissolve carbon; use gently to avoid damaging pintle seal.
- Picks/pliers/screwdrivers: remove hoses/clips—use plastic trim tools when possible.

Summary
- Remove intake duct, disconnect electrical connector, unbolt IAC, inspect & clean or replace with new valve and gasket, reinstall, reconnect battery, clear codes and perform idle relearn. Use OBD-II tool for best results and replace gasket and IAC if electrical/ mechanical failure is found. Follow safety precautions and avoid over-tightening and harsh chemicals.
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