Expert: Micah Goodman - 3/30/2006

Question
I just purchased a 1989 525i. The last tune up was Feb/2005 (will be getting another shortly). The car runs perfect, but it either will stall or almost stall when you accelerate from a stop.  You almost have to baby the gas so it won't stall until you get past that initial lull.  Is this something that might go away after this tune up? or is there something else going on.

Thanks.

Answer
Start by checking for vacuum leaks. These vehicles will get oil into the vacuum hoses and melt them. I don't think a tune up will resolve this issue. The idle air control can also be sticking. A ripped boot between the mass air flow meter and the intake can cause this. You will need to pull it off to really know for sure, they will rip at the bottom and you will not see it. Let me know what you find or if you need more help.