Speed, idle & inputs · Powertrain · generic (SAE-defined)
P0507: Idle Air Control System RPM Higher Than Expected
P0507 means the engine is idling faster than the engine computer's target speed and the computer could not bring it down.
Standard title per SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 · Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
How P0507 sets
The powertrain control module (PCM) monitors actual idle speed against its target when warm and stopped. If idle stays above the target by more than a calibrated amount for a set time, even with the idle control commanding minimum air, the PCM sets P0507. Targets and limits are manufacturer-specific.
Common causes of P0507
Roughly most likely first; the actual cause depends on the vehicle and needs testing to confirm.
- Vacuum leak, such as a cracked hose or leaking intake gasket
- Faulty or stuck-open idle air control valve
- Leaking positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve or hose
- Leaking brake booster
- Sticking throttle plate or faulty electronic throttle body
- Incorrect idle relearn after battery disconnect
P0507 symptoms
- Check engine light on
- High idle speed
- Hissing sound from a vacuum leak
- Harder creep in drive at stops
How P0507 is diagnosed
- Check for lean codes such as P0171 or P0174, which suggest a vacuum leak
- Compare target and actual idle and review fuel trims in live data
- Perform a smoke test for vacuum leaks
- Check the PCV valve and brake booster hoses
- Inspect the throttle plate for sticking and the IAC valve for proper operation
- Perform an idle relearn
Typical fixes for P0507
- Repair vacuum leaks
- Replace the IAC valve or electronic throttle body
- Replace the PCV valve or hoses
- Repair a leaking brake booster
- Perform an idle relearn
Replace parts only after testing confirms the cause — a code names the circuit or condition that failed a check, not necessarily the faulty part. We don’t publish per-repair prices; for what households actually spend on upkeep, see car repair costs.
Manufacturer notes
Commonly reported on some Honda and Acura models with IAC valve issues. Definitions can vary by manufacturer; check factory service information.
Related codes & warning lights
P0507 FAQ
What does code P0507 mean?
P0507 means the engine is idling faster than the engine computer's target speed and the computer could not bring it down. The standard definition is "Idle Air Control System RPM Higher Than Expected."
Can I drive with a P0507 code?
Usually yes, but a high idle makes the vehicle creep harder in gear and increases stopping effort, so use caution. Have it repaired soon.
Can disconnecting the battery cause P0507?
On some vehicles, yes. The computer may lose its learned idle settings and need an idle relearn to restore normal idle control.
How do I find a vacuum leak?
A smoke test is the most reliable method. Listening for hissing and watching fuel trims can also help narrow it down.
Keep researching
More speed, idle & inputs codes
Sources
- SAE J2012 — Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (standard code titles)
- ISO 15031-6 — Road vehicles: communication between vehicle and external equipment for emissions-related diagnostics, Part 6: Diagnostic trouble code definitions
- U.S. EPA — Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs
- U.S. EPA, 40 CFR 86.1806-17 — Federal onboard diagnostics requirements for light-duty vehicles
General information written by CarWhere Research, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. Manufacturers can add their own sub-definitions and test conditions; confirm with the factory service information for your year, make and model. Before paying for a repair, check NHTSA for open recalls and your warranty booklet: federal law requires an emissions warranty on major emission-control parts such as the catalytic converter and engine computer.