Ford Tempo Has Rough Idle

Common Causes of Rough Idling in Your Ford Tempo and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Ford Tempo has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a Ford Tempo has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Customers with drum brake systems often specify they have lost braking power, or that the vehicle's brakes are making noise. This is because brake drums do not dissipate heat very well, so the heat from hard braking will cause stress fractures. These fractures make can make noise on the brake shoes as the drum revolves around the shoes. Lastly, the brake shoes may not be problematic, but may cause a grinding noise while stopping. This would indicate the shoes have no braking material left, and the brake shoes must be changed before the vehicle can be safely driven.

Learn more about brake shoe symptoms

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle in a Ford Tempo

When troubleshooting a rough idle in your Ford Tempo, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the most straightforward solutions. Start by inspecting for vacuum leaks, as these are common culprits that can significantly affect engine performance. Next, check the condition of your spark plugs; worn or fouled plugs can lead to misfires and rough idling. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, proceed to examine the ignition coil, as a malfunctioning coil can disrupt the spark needed for smooth engine operation. Additionally, inspect the throttle body for sludge build-up, which can impede airflow and cause stalling. Don't overlook the throttle position sensor, as a faulty sensor can lead to incorrect readings and poor acceleration. Finally, assess the fuel injectors for leaky O-rings and ensure that the throttle shaft and idle speed control components are in good working order. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and address the root causes of rough idle in your Ford Tempo, enhancing its overall performance.

What Are the Common Causes of Rough Idle in a Ford Tempo?

When dealing with a rough idle in your Ford Tempo, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a vacuum leak, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and lead to unstable engine performance. Additionally, worn or faulty spark plugs can cause misfires, resulting in noticeable vibrations and erratic idling. Another potential issue is the ignition coil; if it's malfunctioning, it can fail to deliver the necessary spark to the engine, further contributing to rough idling. To effectively diagnose these problems, start by visually inspecting hoses for leaks, checking the condition of your spark plugs, and testing the ignition coil's functionality. By systematically addressing these areas, you can restore your Ford Tempo's idle to a smooth and stable state, ensuring a more enjoyable driving experience.

Why is a Ford Tempo Idling Rough and What Should You Do?

When your Ford Tempo is idling roughly, it’s crucial to address the issue without delay. Ignoring symptoms like a shaky idle can lead to more severe problems, including engine damage or safety hazards while driving. Common culprits such as vacuum leaks, faulty spark plugs, or ignition coil issues can not only affect performance but also compromise your vehicle's reliability. Additionally, sludge buildup in the throttle body can cause stalling and hesitation, making it imperative to keep this component clean. If you notice your engine struggling, take the time to inspect the air filter and sensors, as these can also contribute to rough idling. By proactively tackling these issues, you not only enhance your Ford Tempo's performance but also prevent costly repairs down the line, ensuring a safer driving experience.

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