Figuring out why your Check Engine Light is on means deciphering OBD-II (or “OBD2”) codes, and that can be kind of annoying. That’s why Car Autance did it for you! You’re welcome, now let’s get into solving your issue.
OBD2 P0507: What It Means
This code reads as “Idle Air Control System RPM Higher Than Expected” Which means that the car is idling higher than the engine computer is requested. This fix could be pretty easy or pretty hard, but it isn’t the worst issue to have. Better than the car not idling enough, at least. Here we go!
Likely Symptoms
Here’s what you may experience due to the P0507 code:
- A high idle. Most cars idle at about 800 RPM, so look out for any idle speed above 1200 RPM when the car is warm. When cold, your car will idle higher to warm itself up, and control emissions.
- Hard starting. If the idle can’t regulate itself properly, then it is possible that the engine won’t catch an idle and run, usually you can get around this with some throttle input.
- Rough/fluctuating idle. If the idle moves around wildly, that’s a big indicator of a fault. Watch out for a bouncy idle.
Probable Causes
Here’s what could be causing the issue:
- Bad Idle Air Control Valve (IACV). On older cars equipped with an idle air control valve, this is a definite culprit, but not the most common issue. It’s usually possible to remove and clean these to great effect.
- Intake/vacuum leak. This is the most likely culprit. On older cars, one perished line can cause the idle to soar because it causes an imbalance in the carefully engineered vacuum system of an older car. Search for leaks, usually associated with a sucking noise.
- Stuck throttle blade or cable. On some old school cars, stuff can get jammed in the throttle blade and cause it to not close enough, causing a high idle.
What Part Is Potentially Affected?
Usually, this won’t affect anything significantly. It’s a simple high idle condition, though it may cause overheating in traffic. Power loss might become noticeable if the throttle body is clogged up.
Possible Fixes
Here are the most common fixes to remedy the P0507 code:
- Find and repair vacuum leaks. Listen for an abnormal sucking sound, or use soap and water to sus out any air leaks in the vacuum system. This is the most common cause of a high idle, and the simplest fix.
- Clean/replace IACV. If the idle air control valve is clogged or broken, it can cause a high idle, but usually will cause an inconsistent idle. If your symptoms are similar, try to clean the IACV, as it is an arterial vacuum hub for the engine.
Finding The Parts You Need
Now that you’ve figured out what’s wrong with your hooptie, let’s talk about where you’re gonna find that part’s replacement.
There are plenty of places you can buy auto parts from, but Car Autance gets paid if you click this Advance Auto link so that’s the one we’re serving up. Advance Auto Parts also has delivery, curbside pickup, and a host of helpful diagrams to aid your repair!
