My 95 Sidetrack (1.6 litre, 16 valves) with 230,000 km runs well overall, but idles irregularly - idles fast when cold (2500rpm)  then when warm will go down to almost stall at times and at other times stays at about 1500.  Have had it in to the local Suzuki dealer and they say the needle in the throttle body is sticking, and that the throttle body has to be replaced.  Has anyone experienced this and is there a recommended aftermarket throttle body to consider?  The dealer tells me a new one is about $500.  What are my options - I am open to suggestions...

I'm not sure what "needle" your dealer is refering to, but the throttle body is easily removed and you could try cleaning it before you drop $500 +labor for a new one. Try getting a service manual and cleaning it yourself. You only stand to gain, if nothing else the knowledge of how to do it.

I have never looked at a tracker TB, but I don't think any TBs have a "needle".
Can you post pics? You should be able to get one cheaper.


It sounds like your idle control valve is going bad.  I have a Ford truck and a Jeep and have had to clean both of them.  But when they needed cleaned it would not idle at all.

The "needle" - I am guessing - would be the needle valve on the injector.  The Suzuki dealer said he tried cleaning it, but it didn't seem to help, hence the possible need to replace it.  The check engine warning light comes on and off, and the dealer does not seem to be able to determine the problem - it has been in and out of the shop 3-4 times.  We have replaced the fuel filter; the EGR valve; the coolant temperature sensor; spark plugs; and have also tried using fuel injector cleaners in the gas tank.  Nothing has helped... it runs good otherwise, but the idle is annoying and also makes it difficult for low range 4X4 crawling...

As suggested, it might be the Idle Speed Control solenoid valve.  Sorry I don't have any pictures.

Can anyone suggest where I can purchase a really good shop manual?  I have the Haynes Automotive Repair Manual, but find that the instructions are not specific enough...

I got a GM Service manual for my 95 Tracker on Ebay. Wasn't cheap, I think I paid $65. You said yours is a 95? My 95 has multi port injection, hence 4 injectors. You may need to re4move and have them cleaned, but the idle air circuit is my guess.

mine does the same exact thing!! not quite sure what the problem is. but i tihnk a few times it actually stalled out on me. it has a hard time going into gear also(5spd) and it idles wayyy low when warm and way high when cold somtimes just right. but rarely. i gotta keep on the gas a little bit to keep it from idling too low. if anyone knows what the deal is with this please let us know. it would be nice.. but at the same time it doesnt really bother me too much. i got used to it