P0507: Idle Control System RPM Higher Than Expected
Title: SAE J2012 generic definition. Manufacturer-specific definitions and enhanced codes can differ; check service information for the exact vehicle.
What P0507 means
The engine is idling faster than its target and the ECM can't bring it down.
What sets it
The ECM controls idle with an idle air control valve or, on most modern vehicles, the electronic throttle. If actual idle rpm stays above the target by a calibrated margin, even with idle control at its minimum, P0507 sets. Extra air getting in is the usual reason.
Symptoms
- High idle, sometimes surging
- Harsh engagement into gear
- Vehicle creeps more at stops
Is it safe to drive?
General guidance, not a guarantee: Drivable with care: a high idle increases creep and makes the brakes work harder at stops. Diagnose soon. If in doubt, have it towed and diagnosed.
Common causes
Listed roughly from most to least common in general practice. The real order varies by vehicle, mileage and history.
- Vacuum or intake leak
- PCV valve or hose leak
- Throttle body dirty or not relearned after cleaning: after cleaning, the ECM may need to relearn the new airflow
- Idle air control valve fault (older vehicles)
- Sticking throttle plate or cable (older)
Test before you replace: diagnostic sequence
General guidance only. Always follow the vehicle manufacturer's service information, specifications and safety procedures. Any figures below are general guidelines that defer to the manufacturer's specification.
- Check fuel trims at idle. High positive trims plus high idle suggest unmetered air.
- Smoke-test the intake and PCV system.
- Inspect the throttle body and throttle plate for sticking or damage.
- Check the throttle position and idle airflow PIDs at idle compared with known-good data.
- If the throttle body was recently cleaned or replaced, or the battery disconnected, perform the manufacturer's idle or throttle relearn.
- Verify idle returns to target, warm and cold.
Bench note: Cleaning the throttle body without doing the idle relearn afterward is a common cause of high idle and a comeback.
Related tool info: ScanToolMatch: which scan tools can run a throttle / idle relearn (our sister site).
How-to guides for this code
Related codes
FAQ
Does throttle body cleaning cause P0507?
It can, if the ECM hasn't relearned the cleaner throttle. Many vehicles need an idle relearn with a scan tool or a specific procedure.
Is a vacuum leak the most likely cause?
On many vehicles, yes. High idle with lean trims is the classic pattern.
Sources
- SAE J2012, Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (standard page; code titles only)
- Generic code title cross-check: obd-codes.com generic code list
Written with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy; not a substitute for OEM service information. Shop Docs Studio is not affiliated with SAE, EPA, CARB or any vehicle manufacturer.