I have a 99 lumina with 89k miles. I was told to just be honest, I have absolutely no mechanic skills and to probably talk to me like I was 2 as I'm not going to understand some terms. But I've had my car for over 10 years, and it's been pretty dang good to me. Other than basic maintenance and loosing my a/c a few years ago, I've had no real issues. But it is old and starting to show some.

Currently my biggest concern is the idle. When driving, it's fine and solid. But when standing still or in park, it stutters and very rarely stalls out. I notice at times I need to hit some gas to get it to start a bit better, but not all the time. I have read it could be many things, but I thought I would start with some of the more simple. I changed the filter, though not expecting this to solve issue. I got a new air control valve [just in case the old can't be cleaned], but have some questions in changing it out.

Most things I'm reading is to disconnect the negative from battery, both for safety and to reset it...is this the only way? I only ask because my battery is in a horrible spot, being blocked under window fluid container and locked down by a bar. I'm not quite sure how to access it. Lastly, when I take the valve off, is it ok to clean the housing with a carb cleaner?

Thank you for your time, and help. It is appreciated.