The Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) system of the car generates the Diagnostics Trouble Code (DTC), which tells you about the exact problem in the engine of your car. The idle air control system is most commonly used in modern vehicle models. The powertrain control module (PCM) constantly monitors the performance of the IAC system. When it monitors something wrong with the IAC system, it triggers the P0507 code. A DTC P0507 is not a dangerous trouble code. This article explains the P0507 code meaning, symptoms, and causes.
P0507 Code Definition
The P0507 code stands for “Idle Control System RPM Higher Than Expected.”
What does a P0507 Code mean?
The trouble code P0507 indicates that your powertrain control module (PCM) detects a higher idle speed than the specified limit.
The series of all the OBD-II trouble codes from P0505 to P0509 tells us about the various faults in the idle control (IAC) system.
In cars with electronic throttle control, electronics, and sensors help to maintain idle speed.
As you press the accelerator pedal of your vehicle, it causes the throttle plate to open, enabling more air to pass through the throttle opening, which leads to an increase in engine speed. But when the engine is at idle, the throttle plate remains closed and reduces the air supply to the engine.
To address this, the IAC valve plays a vital role, providing an alternative pathway for air to enter the engine cylinder even when the throttle plate is closed. This component ensures that your engine receives sufficient air for the combustion process, thus maintaining optimal idle speed when your car is stationary.
Typically, most vehicle models aim for an RPM range or idle speed between 600 and 800 RPMs. Although the exact idle speed may vary according to your vehicle model.
When the vehicle’s idle speed becomes more than the specified limit, your PCM triggers the DTC P0507.
What is an Idle Control System?
The primary function of the IAC system is to prevent the engine from stalling at idle speed. The idle control system enables the car to stay on and run the other power-consuming components such as alternators, sound systems, air conditioners, etc.
The IAC valve is a major part of the IAC system. The IAC valve regulates the amount of air required to maintain a constant idling speed. It serves as a throttle body plate bypass.
Symptoms of the P0507 Code
Fortunately, the trouble code P0507 is not severe. Whenever this code is set, it signifies that your car’s idle speed has risen over its actual idle speed. Besides, you will notice the “Check Engine Light” on your dashboard as a warning sign.
The common symptoms of P0507 are listed below:
- The check engine light illumination
- Excessive noise while the engine is operating
- Rough idle
- Hard to start the vehicle
- Stalling engine
- Changing the idle speed quickly
- Higher engine idle speed.
Causes of the P0507 Code
There are various causes of the P0507 code that may differ according to the car model, severity, and components. Only a perfect diagnostic and inspection will help in detecting the actual cause of the P0507 code.
Below given are the most prevalent causes of P0507:
- Vacuum leaks
- PCM or data network issues
- Air intake leaks after the throttle body
- Damaged wires connected to the idle control system or throttle body
- Faulty EGR valve
- Faulty power steering pressure switch
- Positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve failure
- Loose connections
- Faulty IAC valve
- Damaged throttle body
- EVAP system failure
- Carbon accumulation in throttle air intakes
- Bad electric throttle control actuator
Read More: Symptoms and Causes of P0017 Code
Common P0507 Code Diagnostic Mistakes
Make sure to detect the main cause of the error code P0507 before replacing any component. Similarly, the trouble code should be cleared after replacing the specific component. The most common mistake while fixing a P0507 is the premature replacement of the following components before checking the vacuum leaks and visual examination:
- Idle air control valve
- Throttle body
- Power steering power switch
How to diagnose the P0507 Code?
The following are the steps you must follow to fix or diagnose the P0507 code:
- Get an OBD II scanner and initiate the diagnosing process. It may be hard to find the exact cause of the issue at first.
- Read the scanner reading and verify the P0507 code.
- Clear the codes and have the test drive to reset all the trouble codes. If the P0507 code returns, perform a deep inspection.
- Inspect vacuum lines to find vacuum leaks.
- Check the RPM using a scan tool while examining the IAC and power steering pressure switch.
- Conduct a visual inspection to look for any ripped vacuum lines or exterior air leaks.
- Examine the PCV valve for obstruction or damage.
- Examine the throttle body for excessive carbon buildup and possible damage.
- Inspect the electrical wires and connections attached to the throttle body and idle control system.
- After the replacement of all the necessary parts, clear all the codes and restart the system before a test drive.
How Serious is the P0507 Code?
The severity level of the P0507 code is low, and it is not serious. Generally, you can drive easily with this code. The engines go running, but you experience a rough ride. With this code, you will notice a higher idle RPM, which may feel rough when the transmission engages. The idle speed of the engine can surge unexpectedly sometimes.
What repairs can fix the P0507 Code?
Following are some quick fixes that you can try to fix the P0507 code:
- Clearing the vehicle’s computer memory and performing a test drive
- Cleaning the dirty throttle body
- Replacing the faulty PCV valve
- Replacing the bad EGR valve
- Cleaning the clogged idle air control valve
- Replacing the bad electronic throttle body
- Repairing the damaged wires and connections
- Replacing the faulty IAC valve
- Replacing the bad electric throttle control actuator
- Repairing the possible intake or vacuum leaks
- Performing a throttle cable adjustment
How to Prevent the P0507 Code from Triggering?
The following control measures may help you to prevent the P0507 code from triggering:
1) Clean Your Engine
The proper cleaning of your engine is very important to prevent it from different issues, The accumulation of carbon on the IAC valve and throttle body may lead to premature failure. Therefore, it is compulsory to keep your IAC valve and throttle body clean.
2) Inspect the Vacuum Lines Regularly
As we discussed above, a vacuum leak is one of the major causes of the P0507 code and other related trouble codes.
A vacuum leak may force your idle air control valve to work harder than normal and cause its premature failure. Therefore, it is important to regularly inspect your vacuum lines for a leak and replace them quickly if needed.
3) Regularly Inspect the Intake Manifold Gasket
A damaged intake manifold gasket may also lead to vacuum leaks and trigger the P0507 code. Ensure regular inspection of your vehicle’s intake manifold gasket and replace it promptly if it is damaged.
4) Inspect Bolts
Loose clamps or bolts may also lead to vacuum leaks. Therefore, it is recommended to regularly check and tighten your loose bolts in the intake system. It will help to prevent possible vacuum leaks.
5) Use Quality Parts
One of the best methods to prevent P0507 code from triggering is the use of quality parts. The quality parts work efficiently and ensure the proper operation of your engine. They can also last for a long time.
6) Avoid Harsh Driving
Harsh driving may lead to failure of the IAC valve or throttle body. Therefore, it is recommended to drive carefully to prevent your vehicle’s parts from damage.
How much does it cost to fix a P0507 code?
The cost of repairing and fixing the code P0507 varies according to the car model, the nature of the repair, and the labor cost. As an estimation, the average cost to fix code P0507 is between $135 and $540.
Listed below are the replacement rates of some specific components:
| Parts | Cost |
|---|---|
| IAC valve cleaning | $165 to $420 |
| Throttle body cleaning | $65 to $220 |
| Power steering pressure sensor replacement | $165 to $335 |
| Repair intake or vacuum leak | $115 to $320 |
| Throttle cable adjustment | $45 to $135 |
| Electronic throttle body replacement | $480 to $1,200 |
| IAC valve replacement | $115 to $650 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does idle air control system RPM higher than expected mean?
Trouble Code P0507 stands for “Idle Control System RPM Higher than Expected.” It indicates that the PCM has identified that the engine idle speed has surpassed the manufacturer’s pre-programmed descriptions for an extended period of time.
Can you drive with a P0507 code?
The presence of a P0507 fault code does not stop you from driving your car. You can easily take your car to the service center with this code. However, you may experience difficulties in starting the car, engine stalling, harsh gearbox engagement, and constant high noise at idle.
Is it possible for a vacuum leak to generate a high idle?
Yes, the engine’s idle RPM may increase in fuel-injected motors due to the vacuum leak. Additionally, if the leak is sizable, it will eventually double the idle speed. On the detection of the vacuum leak, the oxygen sensor of your car will notice additional oxygen going into the intake manifold.
What causes high rpm at idle?
- Vacuum leaks
- Faulty IAC valve
- Throttle body issues
- Air intake issues
- Bad MAF sensor
- Faulty throttle position sensor
- Engine overheating
- Exhaust leaks
Can a throttle body be clean without removing it?
Yes, you can clean the throttle body without removing it. The process is quite simple. Just apply some spray of throttle body cleaner to it and wipe it with the help of a cloth or maybe a toothbrush. Compressing the gas pedal will be good to open the butterfly valve. It will help in cleaning the throttle body easily. If you’re cleaning it by yourself, be cautious about your finger and carefully push on the valve to open it.
How do you fix high idle after cleaning the throttle body?
Cleaning the throttle body lets more air into the engine, which the PCM compensates for by supplying extra fuel. The idle will be relearnt if you drive your car and allow the idle to drop for 2 to 4 minutes with all accessories turned off.
Can a vacuum leak cause a P0507?
Yes, a vacuum leak is one of the major causes of the P0507 code. A vacuum leak may lead to excess air entry in the engine, resulting in an unstable idle and triggering the P0507 error code.
Read More
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- P0506 Code Meaning and Symptoms
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