Fault codeP0507

MODERATE

Idle Control System RPM higher Than Expected

What this code means

Idle Control System RPM higher Than Expected.

P0507 is a generic code: it means the same thing on every make. P0507 belongs to family P05xx — Idle speed and vehicle speed control. Its page explains how to read a code and groups all its codes by part.

Idle speed control

At idle, the control unit adjusts the air entering the engine to keep a stable speed, whatever the load of the alternator, the air conditioning or the steering. It does so with an idle valve on older engines, or by opening the motorised throttle slightly on newer ones.

Symptoms

Idle too high, often 1,000 to 1,500 rpm instead of 700 to 900, idle hunting up and down, higher consumption. The control unit cannot bring the revs down to target: air is getting in where it should not, or the throttle no longer closes.

Common causes

Intake air leak: split hose, manifold gasket, crankcase ventilation
Dirty or sticking throttle body, no longer returning to its stop
Throttle adaptation lost after cleaning or a battery disconnection
Dirty idle control valve on older engines
EGR valve or EVAP purge solenoid stuck open

How to diagnose it

Listen at idle: a hiss betrays an air leak. Spray a little brake cleaner around hoses and gaskets with the engine running — a change in revs locates the leak.

If the code appeared after a throttle cleaning or a battery change, run the manufacturer's adaptation procedure; on some models a few minutes of warm idle is enough. Clean the throttle or the idle valve if needed.

Watch it live in Klaro

With an OBD2 adapter plugged in, these live readings show the part at work, when your car reports them:

Engine RPM
Throttle position
Calculated engine load

What to do

Have it checked this week. The car remains usable, but the fault will not clear itself and will fail the roadworthiness test.

Clearing a code switches the light off but repairs nothing: if the fault remains, the code comes back. Clearing a fault code yourself →

Repair cost

Hose or gasket: €5 to €60. Throttle cleaning: €10 to €80. Idle valve: €40 to €150. Throttle body: €150 to €500.

How to read this code

PPowertrain
0standardised code
5Idle speed and vehicle speed control
07P0507