why are my revs at 1000 when I'm not moving? (vehicle, idle, engine)

[Libbifer91]

Hi,

I really need advice about my car. I've got a Ford Fiesta, 10years in January, about 80,000 on the clock and as soon as I turn my engine on the revs go up to about 800 but can be up to 1000. It never sits on zero even when I'm not moving with the hand break on (engine on). Is this normal or do I need to take it to a mechanic?

Also today, the revs dropped to zero whilst in 2nd gear then shot to 2500. I know nothing about cars so not sure how bad this is??

I'm due to get the can-belt done next month, could this be anything to do with it??

Would be grateful of any advice or comments.

Thank you. Libby.

[froglipz]

Revs are the motor not your wheels. That 1000 is motor idle, revolutions at 0 = engine shut off.

[Libbifer91]

Sorry, I'm not sure what this means??

[USAGeorge]

There is what is called an idle speed..Check your hoses for leaks/cracks if it happened all of a sudden and if it creeped up on you get a tune up...80,000 miles is nothing for a car.

[burdell]

Originally Posted by Libbifer91

Sorry, I'm not sure what this means??

Your engine is turning even when the vehicle isn't moving, the tachometer on the dash indicates engine speed.

[Libbifer91]

Thank you

And thank you USAGeorge

[raveabouttoast]

http://www.howstuffworks.com

I suggest you take a look at that site. You'll find a decent overall view on what's going on in an engine rather than asking specific questions here.

[JaxRhapsody]

...wow.... lol seriously?
her ya go: http://carbibles.com

[BostonMike7]

Originally Posted by Libbifer91

Also today, the revs dropped to zero whilst in 2nd gear then shot to 2500. I know nothing about cars so not sure how bad this is??
.

SOunds like you almost stalled the engine.

[01Snake]

I got a good chuckle out of this one.