idle control valve actuation test failed

[workingonit]

I was outside with my Foxwell today, checking my '09 HHR Panel to see if it would pass emissions inspection later this month (it will), and went over to the X5 to try the SAP test I've never tried before. The SAP test went OK, so I tried several other tests I've never yet performed. The only one that seemed to fail was the idle control valve actuation test.

Engine runs fine, with only one code (IIRC, it was an "idle something plausibility" code...probably set after I tested the IAV first). I couldn't get the code to clear, but it doesn't even show up on Torque Pro at all.

I took out and inspected the IAV ("T-shape idle regulating valve" on RealOem) two years ago, and it was fine (it rattled when shaken...supposedly a valid test), but I had run out of carb cleaner, so it was reinstalled dirty. I'll have to clean it when I take the engine bay apart in a week or so, after I get the smoke tester in, and the rain stays away for a few days.

Why did the idle valve actuation test fail, considering there are no apparent engine problems, other than the mystery cause of a constant lean condition, that I've been hunting for two years)? Is the cause of failure most likely mechanical or electrical in nature?

[X5chemist]

Can an electric check be done on it? It should have some resistance. No post that I've read has ever mentioned an electrical test. Now, I'm curious.

[80stech]

I wouldn't use carb cleaner around anything that might have rubber seals like the throttle body or the IAC valve. Brake clean or MAF/Air intake cleaner. A plausibility code can come up if you ever use the brake and throttle at the same time. I drive with both feet so I almost always have that