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P0507 Severity: Minor to Moderate
Air Intake & Throttle Control

P0507: Idle Air Control System RPM Higher Than Expected

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0507 is triggered when the vehicle Powertrain Control Module (PCM/ECU) detects an operational irregularity in the air intake & throttle control.

⚠️

Can I Still Drive with Code P0507?

Yes, but vehicle may feel like it's pulling forward when stopped in gear.

Code P0507 triggers when the engine idle speed is 200+ RPM higher than the target speed stored in the ECU (typically idle should be 650-750 RPM, but stays at 900-1200 RPM). You will need to press the brake pedal harder at stoplights.

DIY Cost
$10 - $70
Parts only
Mechanic Cost
$200 - $600
Labor + Markup
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
Basic socket set
Estimated Time
30 - 60 Mins
DIY driveway fix

🛒 Recommended Diagnostic Tools & Replacement Parts

Verified OEM fitment and DIY repair supplies for P0507

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CRC Throttle Body & Air Intake Cleaner Spray
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Replacement Electronic Throttle Body Assembly
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Intake Manifold Gasket Set
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📱
Wireless Bluetooth OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner (iOS & Android)
Read & clear P0507 codes, check live engine sensor graphs
Check Scanner

🔍 Symptoms of Code P0507

  • Check Engine Light on
  • Engine idles excessively high (950 to 1,500 RPM in Park or Neutral)
  • Idle speed surges up and down when stopped
  • Car creeps forward eagerly when you release the brake pedal
  • Harsh engagement when shifting into Drive or Reverse

⚙️ Common Causes

  • Excessive carbon buildup around the electronic throttle body throttle plate
  • Vacuum leak allowing extra unmetered air to enter the intake
  • Throttle body idle relearn procedure required (very common after battery disconnection or cleaning)
  • Stuck open PCV valve pulling air from crankcase
  • Faulty Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) actuator motor

🛠️ Step-by-Step DIY Diagnostic & Repair Procedure

Step 1: Check for vacuum leaks with a spray bottle around the intake manifold, PCV hose, and brake booster hose.
Step 2: Remove the intake duct and inspect the throttle plate. If coated with black sticky carbon, clean it with Throttle Body Cleaner and a microfiber cloth (do not force the butterfly valve open forcefully on drive-by-wire cars).
Step 3: Perform an Idle Air Volume Relearn procedure (often a specific sequence of ignition key cycles, or done via a scan tool).
Step 4: Check if the accelerator pedal position sensor or cruise control cable is sticking.

💡 Frequently Asked Questions About P0507

Q: Why did P0507 appear right after I cleaned my throttle body?

This is extremely common! When carbon built up over years, the computer learned to open the valve wider to keep air flowing. After you clean away the carbon, the valve is still open too wide, causing a high idle. You must perform the 'Idle Air Relearn' procedure for your specific car model to reset ECU memory.

Q: Is P0507 dangerous to drive with?

It is not immediately harmful to the engine, but transmission shifting will feel clunky and you will waste fuel idling at stoplights. Fix it promptly to restore smooth driving.

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