P0507: Idle Control System RPM Higher Than Expected

Engine idles at a higher RPM than normal, which can cause fuel economy issues, rough idle, and increased emissions, but typically does not immediately disable vehicle operation.

Overview

P0507 idle control system RPM higher than expected diagnostic trouble code causes symptoms high idle rpm vacuum leaks throttle body IAC PCV

Common Symptoms

Check Engine Light illuminated
Higher than normal idle RPM
Rough or unstable idle
Increased fuel consumption
Erratic idle or engine surging

Most Common Causes

Vacuum leaks in intake or hoses high

Unmetered air allows excess airflow leading to elevated idle RPM.

Dirty or faulty throttle body high

Carbon buildup or malfunction can prevent proper throttle closure.

Faulty or sticking Idle Air Control (IAC) valve or circuit high

IAC failure prevents proper idle regulation.

Faulty PCV valve medium

Leaking positive crankcase ventilation can introduce unmetered air.

Faulty sensor or electrical issue (e.g., TPS/MAP/MAF) medium

Incorrect sensor input may mislead PCM regarding airflow.

Diagnostic Steps

Connect professional OBD-II scanner and read codes plus live data

Expected: Presence of P0507 and idle RPM above manufacturer target

Interpretation: Confirms the code and elevated idle condition.
Inspect intake system for vacuum leaks, cracked hoses, and gasket leaks

Expected: No audible hissing or visible damage

Interpretation: If leaks found, these are likely causing excess air.
Examine throttle body, clean carbon deposits and check plate closure

Expected: Throttle body moves freely and closes fully

Interpretation: Restricted or sticky throttle may cause uncontrolled airflow.
Test IAC valve or electronic throttle control idle logic

Expected: IAC responds to commands and varies idle properly

Interpretation: Non‑responsive or stuck IAC indicates component failure.
Verify related sensors (TPS, MAF) and wiring for correct signals

Expected: Sensor values within specification during idle

Interpretation: Bad sensors may cause miscommunication to PCM affecting idle control.

Repair Solutions

Repair vacuum leaks and replace damaged hoses/gaskets medium

Estimated Cost: $50 - $300

Fixing intake leaks often resolves high idle conditions.

Clean or replace throttle body medium

Estimated Cost: $50 - $250

Cleaning may resolve sticking; replacement for severe damage.

Replace idle air control valve or service electronic throttle unit medium

Estimated Cost: $125 - $650

Part cost varies by vehicle; may require idle relearn after installation.

Replace faulty sensors (TPS/MAF/PCV) medium

Estimated Cost: $100 - $500

Sensor issues can indirectly affect idle speed control.

Common Misdiagnoses

Avoid these common diagnostic mistakes:

Replacing the idle control valve when the root cause is a vacuum leak or throttle body contamination

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the P0507 code mean?

Technically, the P0507 code represents Idle Control System RPM Higher Than Expected. It usually points to a fault within the Air Intake.

How serious is the P0507 code?

You should treat P0507 as a low issue. Engine idles at a higher RPM than normal, which can cause fuel economy issues, rough idle, and increased emissions, but typically does not immediately disable vehicle operation.

How do I know if I have code P0507?

Common symptoms include: Check Engine Light illuminated, Higher than normal idle RPM, Rough or unstable idle. You might also notice the Check Engine Light is on.

Potential causes for OBDII code P0507

This code is frequently triggered by: Vacuum leaks in intake or hoses, Dirty or faulty throttle body, Faulty or sticking Idle Air Control (IAC) valve or circuit.

Estimated repair costs for different causes of P0507

The cost varies significantly based on the root cause. For example, replacing a Clean or replace throttle body typically costs between $50 and $250, while fixing a Replace idle air control valve or service electronic throttle unit can range from $125 to $650.

What cars are affected by the P0507 code?

The P0507 code is a generic powertrain code, meaning it applies to almost all makes and models, such as Honda, Toyota, VW, Ford, and Chevy.

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