P0507 Code Meaning and Next Steps

First checks take 10 to 20 minutes for the first checks. No special tools are usually needed for the first checks.

Can you keep driving?

Stop driving if any of these apply

!The engine stalls repeatedly or will not stay running at idle.
!The vehicle loses power badly enough that it becomes unsafe to continue.

If the light is steady and the vehicle still drives normally: Often yes for a short time, but idle quality should be watched closely.

What to check first

Step-by-step checks

1
Free - no tools
Check whether the idle is only high when warm, after a battery reset, or all the time
2
Free - no tools
Inspect the intake and vacuum lines for leaks, loose clamps, or split hoses
3
Basic tool needed
Look at the throttle body for carbon buildup or a blade that is not fully returning
4
Basic tool needed
If scan data is available, compare commanded idle to actual idle while accessories are off
5
Basic tool needed
If the engine recently had battery or intake work, verify whether it needs an idle relearn

If the code returns

-If a leak repair or relearn brings the idle back down, that is a strong clue.
-If the code returns after a reset, look for a hidden vacuum leak or throttle issue.
-If the engine also runs lean, the air leak side becomes much more likely than the throttle alone.

Background

What this code means

P0507 is a generic OBD-II idle-control code.

These codes usually mean the ECU is not able to keep idle speed where it wants it, either because the air path is off, the throttle body is dirty, or a related sensor signal is not believable.

The engine may idle fast, hunt at stops, or flare after you lift off the throttle.

Diagnosis

Common causes

Most common

Vacuum leak

Extra air can make idle speed rise above target.

Common

Dirty or sticky throttle body

The throttle may not close fully at idle.

Common

Idle relearn lost

A battery disconnect or service can leave the idle target off.

Possible

PCV or intake leak

A small air leak can raise idle enough to trip the code.

Avoid these mistakes

What not to do

xDo not replace the throttle body first if the intake is dirty, leaking, or obviously sticking.
xDo not ignore vacuum leaks, because they can mimic a bad idle-control part.

Parts

Parts that may need replacing

PartTypical costNotes

Throttle body cleaning or service$10-$120Often the right first step if the throttle is dirty.

Vacuum hose or intake repair$10-$120Worth checking if an air leak is found.

Throttle body or idle control valve$60-$350Relevant when cleaning and relearn do not fix the high idle.

Related OBD codes

P0505

P0505 usually means the idle control system is not holding normal idle speed.

P0506

P0506 usually means the idle speed is lower than the ECU expects.

P0171

P0171 usually means bank 1 is running too lean.

P0300

P0300 usually means the engine is detecting random or multiple-cylinder misfires.

Source notes

Generic OBD-II (SAE J1979 / ISO 15031-5). P0507 was expanded around common high-idle faults, including vacuum leaks, throttle contamination, and lost idle adaptation.

This guide is written as a generic multi-make reference, so bulletin history, sensor locations, and repair order can still change by manufacturer and engine family.

This is generic OBD-II guidance and should not override vehicle-specific service information. Exact diagnosis and repair steps vary by make, engine family, and model year.

Last reviewed: 2026-04-10

Reference: Open reference

P0507 - P0507 Usually Means the Idle Speed Is Higher Than the Ecu Expects