Error Code P0507 is described as Idle Air Control System RPM Higher than Expected. In simpler terms, the idle speed is persistently faster and above the pre-determined RPM level for a specified amount of time.

Definition

The role of the Idle Control System is to manage the engine’s idle speed and meet the fluctuating load placed on the vehicle’s engine, which varies from the use of air-conditioning, heater, wiper, etc.

Error Code P0507 means the idle speed is faster than normal. This code is sometimes triggered on vehicles with electronic throttle control. That is if the vehicle doesn’t have a regular throttle cable that connects the accelerator pedal to the engine. They mostly depend on electronics and sensors to control the throttle. This error code is triggered when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects engine speed faster than the desired or pre-programmed speed (RPM). In many cases, the idle speed that goes more than 200 RPM higher than the desired or expected speed will trigger the error code.

More About Idle Control System

The idle speed is usually controlled by the Idle Air Control Motor, which is mounted on or the back side of Throttle Body’s Intake Manifold. Vehicles made since 2000 use ‘drive by wire system’, where the Idle Air System is incorporated straight to Electronic Throttle Body’s assembly. The PCM, along with the help of the Idle Air System, allows more or less air to the system.

Common Symptoms

  • Check Engine light is on
  • Idle speed faster/higher than normal, as a matter of fact, it can be too high
  • Rough idle of the engine
  • Engine idles erratically

Possible Causes

Error Code P0507 may be caused by one or more of the following problems:

  • Faulty and sticking Idle Air Control (IAC) motor
  • Vacuum leaks in the intake manifold
  • Leaking EGR valve
  • Dirty or damaged throttle body
  • Failed Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) System
  • Faulty or failed IAC circuit or controller
  • Air leak in the throttle body
  • Faulty Power Steering Pressure
  • Faulty Alternator or Charging System
  • Faulty Coolant Temperature Sensor
  • Carbon buildup in air passages of the Throttle Body

How to Check

Because this error code refers to idle air control malfunction, the first thing you need to inspect to diagnose is to check the freeze frame data to get a good picture of when the malfunction took place. It is also good to test the basic functionality of the system; turn the steering wheel (as if you are parking the vehicle) while it is stopped and the engine is idling. In this way, you will energize the system and boost your engine’s idle RPM, keeping the engine from stalling during higher engine load, which is usually caused by the power steering pump working a near maximum output.

Make sure you pay attention to the data stream and check the higher RPM, also check whether the system is responding. In addition, open the throttle body and check the throttle blade to see if it’s still clean or already full of carbon.

When the error code P0507 also shows up, this means there is a carbon buildup in either the Throttle Body air passages or the Idle Control Motor.

How to Fix

This error code is more of an informational code than a warning code. Thus, if your scan tool shows other codes, it is better to diagnose them first. If there are no other codes, the first thing you need to do to fix error code P0507 is to check the intake air system for air or vacuum damages and leaks. If there are no other symptoms than the DTC itself, simply clear the codes and see if it comes back after a few drives.

If you’re using an advanced scan tool that can interact with your vehicle, command the idle lower or higher and see whether the engine responds appropriately or not. Check the PCV valve as well and see if it is blocked and needs a new replacement.

Inspect the IAC (Idle Air Controller) if it is equipped, and verify its performance. Try swapping in a new throttle body (if available) and see if it can fix the problem. Some vehicles simply need idle air relearn procedure or other relearn procedures by the vehicle’s dealer.

To learn more about this error code, or other related error codes such as P0505 and P0506, feel free to browse through our website. For professional help,  Contact Us.