If the engine keeps idling high after you release the accelerator, P0507 tells you the computer has noticed the same problem. It doesn’t tell you what is letting the idle stay high. I start by checking the actual RPM and looking for extra air entering the engine.
What the P0507 code means
P0507 means the engine computer has detected an idle speed higher than its target. The exact RPM difference and test conditions vary by vehicle, so compare the scan-tool reading with the specification for your engine.
Some vehicles control idle with a separate idle air control valve (IAC). Others use the electronic throttle body to regulate airflow. That difference matters when diagnosing the code: a car without a separate IAC valve cannot have a failed IAC valve.
Symptoms of P0507
You may notice a high idle even when the engine is warm, or the RPM may rise and fall instead of settling. Other possible signs include:
- Check Engine Light
- Engine idles faster than usual while stopped
- Idle speed stays high after starting or releasing the accelerator
- Rough or fluctuating idle
- Vehicle feels like it wants to move when stopped and shifted into gear
Common causes of P0507
- Intake or vacuum leak: Air entering the engine after the throttle body can raise idle speed. Check hoses and connections, including the PCV system.
- Throttle body problem: Carbon buildup, a sticking throttle plate, or a fault in the electronic throttle system can keep airflow higher than intended.
- Idle air control problem: On vehicles with a separate IAC valve, the valve or its circuit may not control airflow correctly.
- Throttle cable or linkage sticking: On vehicles with a mechanical throttle cable, the cable or linkage may not let the throttle close fully.
- Idle relearn needed: Some vehicles require an idle or throttle relearn after battery disconnection, throttle-body service, or a related repair.
- Wiring or control fault: A damaged connector or wiring issue can affect the throttle or idle-control system. An engine computer fault is possible but uncommon.
Can you drive with P0507?
If the idle is only slightly high and the vehicle remains easy to control, you can usually drive it a short distance to arrange diagnosis. Avoid a long trip. If the engine races, the vehicle creeps strongly in gear, or it is difficult to stop safely, don’t continue driving.
How to diagnose P0507
I check for extra air and confirm what the throttle and idle-control system are doing before replacing anything. A scan tool can show the current RPM and, on many vehicles, the target RPM or throttle data.
- Scan for all codes and save the freeze-frame data. Related codes may point to a throttle, sensor, or idle-control fault. Record them before clearing anything.
- Compare actual and target idle speed. Check the reading under the conditions specified for the vehicle, usually with the engine warm. A brief increase during cold starting or when an accessory switches on may be normal.
- Inspect the intake for disconnected or damaged hoses. Check the ducting after the airflow sensor, vacuum hoses, and PCV connections. A smoke test can help confirm a leak. Avoid spraying flammable cleaner around a running engine.
- Check throttle movement and condition. If the vehicle has a mechanical cable, make sure it moves freely and the throttle closes fully. If cleaning is indicated, follow the service procedure. Don’t force an electronic throttle plate by hand.
- Test the idle-control system used by that vehicle. If it has a separate IAC valve, check its operation and circuit. If it uses electronic throttle control, check scan data and follow the manufacturer’s throttle-body test.
- Perform an idle relearn if the procedure calls for it. The steps differ by vehicle. Don’t use a generic relearn procedure unless it matches your make, model, and engine.
- Verify the repair. Confirm the idle settles within the specified range with accessories on and off. Complete any required relearn, then recheck for codes and air leaks.
For related checks, see our guides to throttle-body symptoms, throttle-body cleaning, and PCV valve symptoms.
Repairs that can fix P0507
The repair depends on what testing finds. Possible fixes include:
- Repairing an intake or vacuum leak
- Cleaning or repairing the throttle body when the vehicle procedure supports it
- Replacing a faulty IAC valve on vehicles that use one
- Repairing a sticking throttle cable or linkage
- Repairing damaged wiring or a connector
- Performing the required idle or throttle relearn
Throttle body replacement cost
If testing confirms the throttle body needs replacement, the average cost is about $623 to $766, according to RepairPal. That estimate is for throttle-body replacement, not every possible cause of P0507. In my experience, an intake leak or a relearn issue can call for a very different repair, so get a quote based on your exact vehicle before replacing parts.
Frequently asked questions
Does P0507 mean the idle air control valve is bad?
No. Some vehicles don’t have a separate idle air control valve. An intake leak, throttle-body problem, sticking cable, or relearn issue can also cause a higher-than-expected idle.
Can a vacuum leak cause P0507?
Yes. Air entering the engine through a leak can raise idle speed. Inspect the hoses and connections, then confirm a suspected leak with an appropriate test.
Can a dirty throttle body cause P0507?
It can contribute to idle-control problems, but the code alone doesn’t prove the throttle body needs cleaning or replacement. Check for leaks and follow the vehicle’s diagnostic procedure first.
