Diagnostic code
P0507 Code: Idle Control System RPM Higher Than Expected
P0507 means the engine idle speed is higher than the computer is trying to command. Extra air entering the engine, throttle body buildup, idle control faults, or an idle relearn issue can all create a high idle condition.
Educational reference only, not professional repair advice. A fault code is a starting point, not a diagnosis. Vehicle symptoms, live data, service history, and manufacturer-specific procedures change the repair path. If the check engine light is flashing, the vehicle is overheating, brakes or steering feel unsafe, fuel odor or smoke appears, or the engine is running poorly, stop driving when safe and get professional help.
Sources
Can I drive?
Use caution because high idle can make the vehicle creep harder at stops. Diagnose soon, especially if idle is very high.
Repair range
$60-$650
Scanner note
Basic OBD-II scanner with live data
Plain-English Meaning
P0507 means the engine idle speed is higher than the computer is trying to command. Extra air entering the engine, throttle body buildup, idle control faults, or an idle relearn issue can all create a high idle condition.
Common Causes
Common possibilities (most common first):
- Vacuum leak
- Dirty throttle body
- Idle air control valve problem
- Throttle body relearn needed
- PCV system leak
Order varies by make, model, mileage, and operating conditions. Do not replace parts based only on this list — verify with a scan tool and qualified mechanic.
Symptoms
- High idle speed
- Surging idle
- Harder shifting into gear
- Check engine light
Diagnostic Steps
- 1Check actual idle speed and freeze-frame data
- 2Inspect vacuum hoses and intake leaks
- 3Clean throttle body if appropriate
- 4Perform idle relearn when required
- 5Test idle control valve or electronic throttle data
Confusable And Related Codes
P0171
Compare →P0171 means the engine computer is adding extra fuel because bank 1 is running lean. In plain terms, the engine is getting too much air, not enough fuel, or incorrect sensor information. Vacuum leaks, intake leaks, fuel delivery issues, and
P0174
Compare →P0174 means bank 2 is running lean and the computer is adding fuel to compensate. It is common on V-style engines when unmetered air enters one side of the intake, fuel delivery is weak, or the mass airflow reading is inaccurate for the act
P0300
Compare →P0300 means the engine is misfiring randomly or across multiple cylinders instead of one clearly identified cylinder. Ignition, fuel, air leaks, compression problems, or timing issues can all interrupt combustion and trigger this code.
P0101
Compare →P0101 means the mass airflow sensor signal does not match what the engine computer expects for current operating conditions. The sensor may be dirty or faulty, but intake leaks, wiring issues, and restricted airflow can create the same mism
FAQ
Can a vacuum leak cause P0507?
Yes. Extra air can raise idle above the commanded speed.
Can cleaning the throttle body cause P0507?
It can if the vehicle needs an idle relearn afterward.
Is P0507 safe to drive?
Drive carefully because high idle can affect low-speed control and gear engagement.
This page is educational and is not a substitute for hands-on vehicle diagnosis.