The P0507 is an OBD-II trouble code that stands for Air Control System RPM Higher Than Expected which refers to an idle control system fault. The engine control module (ECM) sets the P0507 trouble code when it sees that the idle RPMs have been higher than the limit for a certain amount of time.
In this article, I will be talking about the P0527 trouble code, its symptoms, causes, and how to fix it.
What Does The P0507 Code Mean?
The P0507 code means that the vehicle’s computer has detected a higher RPM than normal for an extended period of time. To alert the driver, the vehicle’s computer will trigger a check engine light and will store a P0507 code.
It is critical to understand the role of the idle air control system in the car to better understand the meaning of Code P0507.
When the car is not moving, the idle air control system ensures that the engine runs at an optimal idle speed. This idle speed depends on several things, such as the stereo, air conditioning, windshield wipers, and seat heaters.
When the PCM (powertrain control module) detects that the idle engine speed is higher than the previously determined speed by design, code P0507 is triggered.
Most PCMs will generate Code P0507 if the idle engine speed is 200 or more RPM higher than intended, and the “Check Engine” light will illuminate on the dashboard.
In most modern cars manufactured after 2000, the idle air control system is part of the electronic throttle body assembly.
The idle air control valve (also known as a motor or actuator) is a key component of the idle air control system that, in conjunction with the PCM, determines the amount of air that the system requires to run at an optimal level.
Which Models Are Affected By The P0507 Code?
| Make | Affected By P0507 Code |
|---|---|
| Toyota | Yes |
| Nissan | Yes |
| Chevrolet | Yes |
| BMW | Yes |
| Audi | Yes |
| Buick | Yes |
| Mercedes | Yes |
| GMC | Yes |
| Suzuki | Yes |
| Tata | Yes |
| Lexus | Yes |
| Mazda | Yes |
| Mitsubishi | Yes |
| Kia | Yes |
| Jeep | Yes |
| Fiat | Yes |
| Honda | Yes |
| Hyundai | Yes |
| Opel | Yes |
| Ford | Yes |
| Fiat | Yes |
| Peugeot | Yes |
What Are The Possible Causes of the P0507 Code?
The P0507 trouble code is caused when the vehicle’s computer detects that the RPMs have been higher for an extended period of time which points to a fault within the idle control system.
Here are some possible causes of the P0507 trouble code:
- Faulty Idle Air Control (IAC) valve
- Dirty throttle body
- Vacuum leaks in the intake manifold of hoses
- Stuck open Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve
- Faulty Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor
- Malfunctioning Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor
- Malfunctioning Throttle Position (TP) sensor
- Malfunctioning Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor
- Malfunctioning Fuel Pressure Regulator
- Issues with the engine’s computer or wiring
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty or malfunctioning fuel injectors
- Incorrectly installed
- Failed catalytic converter or oxygen sensor
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and other factors may also cause the P0507 trouble code to appear. A professional diagnosis is always recommended to accurately identify the cause of the issue.
What Are The Common Symptoms of The P0507 Code?
Fortunately, code P0507 is quite easy to identify because the symptoms are quite obvious, and even inexperienced car owners will be able to notice them.
Here are the most common symptoms of the P0507 trouble code:
- Check engine light: The trouble code P0507 will turn on the check engine light on the dashboard of the car.
- High idle speed: The engine’s idle speed will be faster than usual, going over the limit set by the manufacturer. This can be observed when the vehicle is idling.
- Engine stalling or surging at idle: In some cases, the high idle speed may cause the engine to stall or surge while idling, which can be felt as a fluctuation in the engine’s RPMs.
- Hard starts: A high idle speed may also make it more difficult to start the engine, particularly when the engine is cold.
- Poor fuel economy: If the engine is running at a high idle speed, it may use more fuel than usual, which makes the fuel economy worse.
Is It Safe To Drive With a P0507 Code?
In general, it is safe to drive with the P0507 trouble code, but it is important to address the issue as soon as possible. A high idle speed can cause decreased fuel economy, increased wear, and tear on engine components, and may even cause the engine to stall or surge while idling.
Also, if the cause of the P0507 trouble code isn’t fixed, it could lead to bigger problems with the engine or other parts of the car.
But if the P0507 trouble code is accompanied by other problems, like the engine stalling or jerking at idle, it may not be safe to drive the car until the problem is fixed.
In any case, it’s best to have a professional mechanic figure out what’s wrong and fix it to make sure the car is safe to drive and the problem is fixed properly.
How To Diagnose The P0507 Code
If you want to diagnose the P0507 trouble code, you should follow the steps below.
- Connect a scan tool to the vehicle’s DLC port and look for any codes.
- Take note of the DTC freeze frame data for use on the test drive and clear the codes.
- To replicate the malfunction, take the vehicle for a test drive.
- Do a visual check and look for ripped vacuum lines or air leaks to the outside.
- Check the throttle body for too much carbon buildup and to make sure it opens and closes correctly.
- While the IAC and power steering pressure switch are being tested, use a scan tool to check the RPM.
- Examining the charging system.
Most Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0507 Code
Mistakes happen when simple things are missed because steps were not taken in the right order. The P0507 code involves several different systems, and if one system is overlooked, parts that are working properly may be replaced.
How Much Does It Cost To Repair P0507 Code
Cleaning the throttle body costs $24.99 (DIY) or $99 at a mechanic shop.
Cleaning the idle air control valve costs $16.99 (DIY) or $89 at a mechanic shop.
Replacing a throttle body sensor costs $159.
Replacing the idle air control valve costs $199.
| Make | P0507 Code | Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Nissan | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Chevrolet | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| BMW | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Audi | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Buick | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Mercedes | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| GMC | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Suzuki | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Tata | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Lexus | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Mazda | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Mitsubishi | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Kia | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Jeep | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Fiat | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Honda | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Hyundai | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Opel | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Ford | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Fiat | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
| Peugeot | Yes | $24.99 – $199 |
What Repairs Can Fix The P0507 Code?
Repairs that can fix the P0507 trouble code include the following:
- Ensure that the throttle body is clean.
- Ensure that the idle air control valve is clean.
- Repair any intake or vacuum leaks.
- Replace the faulty sensor with an electronic throttle body.
- Replace the faulty idle air control valve.
- Make a throttle cable adjustment.
- Relearn idle air volume.
How To Fix The P0507 Code
To fix the P0507 trouble code, you need to:
- Connect a good OBD-II scanner to your vehicle to begin the diagnostic process. This is critical for determining which component of the vehicle is causing the problem.
- Use the OBD-II scanner to check the system codes and make sure Code P0507 is there.
- Clear the codes from the system, and then get the car ready for a test drive to make sure the diagnosis is correct.
- Examine and inspect any ripped vacuum lines for potential outside leaks.
- A thorough examination of the throttle body begins. You should check for proper opening and closing, as well as for carbon buildup in the throttle body air passages.
- The IAC’s RPM speed and the function of the power steering pressure switch are both tested using an OBD-II scanner.
- The charging system is tested as the final step.
- After all the repairs and replacements are done, clear the codes from the system and turn it back on before giving the car its last test drive.
In Conclusion
The P0507 code indicates that the idle control system is operating at an excessively high RPM, commonly referred to as “high idle.”
The Engine Control Unit (ECU) must maintain a specific RPM range when idling your car, which means keeping the vehicle’s engine running while it is not in motion. Depending on the model, the standard RPM range ranges from 600 to 800 RPM.
When the RPM is higher than expected, a P0507 code is generated, putting the vehicle in failsafe mode and causing the “Check Engine” light to illuminate.