Code P0507: Idle Air Control System RPM Higher Than Expected
When your electronic throttle control registers a higher RPM than expected, it signals error code P0507. While there are many causes and some symptoms of this error code, the important question is how do I fix trouble code P0507? Find out how to troubleshoot this OBD-II scanner code today.
What Does It Mean?
You should only see a P0507 trouble code on vehicles equipped with an electronic throttle control. This type of control uses sensors to adjust the throttle instead of a conventional throttle cable. It’s also equipped with sensors that monitor the current idle speed in RPMs.
When your idle speed is higher than a preset threshold, it triggers error code P0507. Depending on the vehicle, it could be as much as 200 RPMs over the expected rate, which is typical of GM vehicles. This symptom could be a sign of damage to your air intake or fuel injection system, so it’s important to review promptly in order to determine which component is causing the trouble code.
Symptoms of Error Code P0507
There are only a few symptoms of a OBD-II scanner error code P0507 problem. Most likely, the first symptom you’ll experience is your Check Engine light. After that, you may notice a slightly higher RPM than you’re used to. However, this will only be the case if there’s a true issue with your idle RPMs, rather than a sensor issue.
Typical Causes
There are many components that work together to provide stable RPMs when idling. Because of this, there are many areas you’ll need to check to find the cause. First, a vacuum leak could cause an imbalance in the air/fuel ratio, which would affect your RPMs. Inspect the entire area for any signs of a crack or leak, particularly in the air intake after the throttle body.
Next, there are a few valves to inspect. Check the positive crankcase ventilation valve and the EGR valve. Any electrical or physical damage to these valves will alter your idle air control. The throttle body could be dirty or damaged, so inspect it carefully. The EVAP system could also affect the idle of your engine. You’ll typically see other trouble codes related to a faulty EVAP system.
Your EVAP system covers everything from your fuel tank and gas cap to your EVAP hoses, filter canister, purge valve and fuel lines. Any of these could have a leak, which would offset the system and cause higher RPMs. Look for a broken hose or cracked canister to find the source of the error code P0507.
Finally, the last cause to check is the entire electrical system related to the idle air control. Loose connections, frayed wires or damaged sensors could give you a false reading or cause your electronic throttle control to behave erratically. Replace any relevant sensors. Your entire powertrain control module could also have an issue, which would affect the entire communication system and the sensors related to P0507.
Repairs and Solutions
Once you’ve carefully inspected the related valves, air control system and EVAP system, it’s time to replace, repair or clean the necessary parts. Because of the interrelated nature of your entire electronic and air control system, you may see many trouble codes related to P0507. Find a leak or damaged part, then reset the code. Check again to see if the code continues to trigger, meaning there’s still a fault in the system.
Now you can find the correct causes and solutions once you know what does the code P0507 mean? It may take some trial and error to determine if there’s a single vacuum leak or a series of dirty parts, leaking hoses and failed sensors.
