Q: I own a 2003 Pontiac Vibe. When it’s cold and the engine is first started, the idle is very high, around 1,900 rpm. It seems to take a long time, about four minutes, for the idle to drop down to about 1,200 rpm. Once it’s fully warmed up, it idles down and runs very smooth.

I’ve had trouble with the idle control motor in other cars, but that usually led to an erratic idle. My Vibe doesn’t have an erratic idle, though. So, I don’t think it’s a bad idle motor. Do you have any ideas as to what might be causing this? – N.M., Orland Hills

A: The idle air control valve in your Vibe contains a coolant passage to enable it to operate more efficiently at cold temperatures.

To work properly, there needs to be a good supply of coolant passing through the valve’s internal passage. Something as simple as a low coolant level could cause a longer than normal warm-up of the valve.

Check to make sure the coolant level in the radiator and/or overflow tank are at the proper level. If the coolant level is good, check to make sure that the coolant passage in the idle air control valve is not restricted.

Q: I heard a noise coming from my 2000 Chevy Suburban after I turned the engine off. I looked for the source of the noise and I found that it was coming from the ABS pump. Do you know why this pump is running with the ignition turned off ? – David, Dolton

A: The ABS pump is controlled by the electronic brake control module. There could be an internal failure inside the module. Have a technician perform a thorough diagnosis of the system. It’s likely the module and the pump (since it has been running excessively) will need to be replaced.

Q: I own a 2002 Chevy S-10 pickup truck with the 4.3-liter V-6 engine. It’s been hard to start for the past three months. Now the truck won’t start at all unless I pour gasoline directly into the throttle assembly. Once it starts, though, it runs fine. I had the fuel pump checked and its pressure was 45 psi. The shop said I needed new fuel injectors and it would cost around $800. What’s your opinion? – W.A., Marengo

A: I have good news and bad news. The bad news is that the sequential central port fuel injection system in your truck, as in many other General Motors trucks, has been problematic.

The good news, though, is that according to bulletin No. 99066F, a special policy covers the system for a period of 10 years or 200,000 miles, whichever occurs first, from the date the vehicle was originally placed in service, regardless of ownership. Repairs (by your local Chevrolet dealer) should be made at no charge. This special policy applies only to repairs requiring SCPI system servicing, injector cleaning and/or fuel injector assembly replacement. Save the $800 and make an appointment with your local Chevy dealer to get your truck fixed.

Questions for Ira Siegel? Call the Auto Advisor Hotline at (708) 633-6839 or e-mail autoadvisr@aol. com. Siegel is an automotive instructor and an automotive service excellencecertified master auto technician.