I've seen posts that say our FDs are rough idlers. But I'm not sure mine classifies as a "rough" idle. The RPMs fluctuate between 1000-1400 RPMs, in a rhtyhmic, "breathing" fashion. This only happens after I drive around, not when I start the car. I've also noticed that the "breathing" idle stops after the fans kick in. Could this be a sign of a major problem?

 

I had the same exact problem.

Mine was due to a broken LIM gasket. Check for vacuum leaks.

Also, you could check the voltages on your PFC.

 

Thanks, Quickfini.

Broken LIM Gasket? I'm not familiar with that; is that something only a rebuild can fix? As far as checking for vacuum leaks--unfortunately, I don't know how to do this. I have very limited mechanical know-how, let alone rotary knowledge (However, this forum is packed with TONS of info, I've learned). I can get the vacuum hoses checked when I get a compression test this Saturday. I'm not sure I can trust the compression numbers the dealer gave me because upon startup, my FD emits semi-thick white smoke until it has been properly warmed up.

From what I've dug up, the smoke can be due to a bad coolant seal (time for rebuild), or the smoke might not be smoke at all, but water evaporation. I really can't tell in this weather, although it does have a strong odor to it.

Also, I do not have a Power FC.