In this article 10 sections
P0507 on a Honda means the engine idle speed is higher than expected. The ECM detects the RPM staying well above the target idle speed it has calculated. The most common fix is cleaning the throttle body and performing Honda’s idle relearn procedure, which costs $5 to $20 as a DIY repair or $80 to $250 at a shop. Honda vehicles built before 2006 may also have a stuck Fast Idle Thermo Valve, a Honda-specific design.
Sources: Honda TSB for P0507/P2279, NHTSA filings, FIXD, Go-Parts, Rick’s Free Auto Repair Advice. See our sourcing policy.
What Does P0507 Mean on a Honda?
What Does P0507 Mean on a Honda: Quick Diagnostic Intelligence
P0507 stands for Idle Control System RPM Higher Than Expected. The ECM monitors engine idle speed against a target that varies with temperature and load. When the idle stays too far above that target, the ECM sets P0507 and turns on the check engine light. The code can appear at startup, during warmup, or after the engine reaches operating temperature.
Honda used two different idle control systems depending on the model year. Cable-throttle models built before 2006 use a dedicated Idle Air Control Valve (IACV) mounted on the throttle body, plus a Fast Idle Thermo Valve (FITV) that allows extra air during cold starts. Drive-by-wire models from 2006 and newer use an Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) where the ECM controls a motor inside the throttle body to set the exact throttle plate angle. There is no separate IACV or FITV on ETCS models. This distinction matters because the causes and fixes differ between the two systems.
Common Causes Ranked by Repair Cost
These are the most common causes of P0507 on Honda vehicles, listed from the least expensive fix to the most expensive.
| Cause | Typical Cost | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Dirty throttle body (carbon buildup) | $5 to $20 DIY, $80 to $250 at shop | All Honda models |
| Failed idle relearn after service | $0 (procedure only) | All Honda models |
| PCV valve or vacuum hose leak | $5 to $20 DIY | All Honda models |
| IACV carbon buildup or failure | $150 to $400 | Pre-2006 models only |
| FITV stuck open | $150 to $300 | Pre-2006 models only |
| Vacuum leak at intake manifold gasket | $200 to $300 | High-mileage vehicles |
| Intake manifold gasket replacement | $300 to $500 | 150,000 plus miles |
| Throttle body replacement | $509 to $634 | ETCS models with motor failure |
Honda’s Two Idle Control Systems
Understanding which system your Honda uses is the first step in diagnosing P0507. The transition happened at different times for different models.
| Model | Cable Throttle with IACV | Drive-by-Wire ETCS |
|---|---|---|
| Civic | 2005 and earlier | 2006 and newer |
| CR-V | 2004 and earlier | 2005 and newer |
| Accord | 2007 and earlier (V6: 2005 and earlier) | 2008 and newer (V6: 2006 and newer) |
| Odyssey | 2004 and earlier | 2005 and newer |
| Pilot | 2004 and earlier | 2005 and newer |
| Element | 2006 and earlier | 2007 and newer |
| Ridgeline | None | 2006 and newer (all years) |
Cable-throttle models have an IACV that bypasses air around the closed throttle plate and a Fast Idle Thermo Valve that provides extra air during cold starts. The FITV uses a thermowax plunger that seals when the engine warms up. The FITV is a Honda-specific design. Drive-by-wire models control idle entirely through the electronic throttle body motor and have no separate idle air valve.
Which Honda Models Get P0507 Most Often?
Based on repair data and forum reports, these Honda models have the highest P0507 occurrence rates.
| Model | Peak Years | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CR-V | 2002 to 2013 | Most-discussed Honda model for P0507 |
| Accord | 2003 to 2013 | Both 4-cylinder and V6 affected |
| Civic | 1996 to 2013 | Older Civics often have FITV issues |
| Odyssey | 2005 to 2013 | V6 models |
| Pilot | 2005 to 2013 | V6 models |
| Element | 2007 to 2011 | Named in Honda TSB |
| Ridgeline | 2006 to 2013 | Drive-by-wire from launch |
How to Diagnose and Fix P0507 on a Honda
Start with the cheapest fix first. Cleaning the throttle body and running the idle relearn procedure solves P0507 in the majority of cases.
Step 1: Read All Codes
Scan for all DTCs, not just P0507. If P2279 (intake air system leak) appears alongside P0507, a vacuum leak is likely. Note freeze frame data including engine temperature and RPM at the time the code set.
Step 2: Check for Vacuum Leaks
With the engine running, listen for hissing or whistling near the intake. Inspect the PCV valve, PCV hose, brake booster hose, and EVAP purge valve. Spray carburetor cleaner around intake gaskets and vacuum connections while the engine idles. A change in RPM when you spray indicates a leak at that spot.
Step 3: Clean the Throttle Body
For ETCS models (2006 and newer): disconnect the battery negative terminal, remove the air intake duct from the throttle body, and spray throttle body cleaner on the plate and bore. Use a soft cloth to remove carbon deposits. Do not force the throttle plate open on ETCS models because this can damage the motor. For IACV models (pre-2006): remove the IACV from the throttle body, clean the IACV passages and the throttle bore, and inspect the FITV if equipped.
Step 4: Honda Idle Relearn Procedure
This step is required after any throttle body cleaning, IACV service, or battery disconnect on Honda vehicles. Skipping it is the most common reason P0507 comes back after cleaning.
For ETCS models without a Honda scan tool: disconnect the battery for 30 seconds and reconnect it. Start the engine and hold at 3,000 RPM until the radiator fan turns on or coolant reaches 194 degrees Fahrenheit. Release the throttle completely and let the engine idle for 5 minutes with the throttle fully closed. Turn off the engine, wait 30 seconds, then restart to verify normal idle between 600 and 800 RPM.
For IACV models (cable throttle): disconnect the battery negative for 10 minutes. Reconnect and start the engine without touching the accelerator. Let it idle until fully warmed up with the A/C and all accessories off. The idle should settle to 650 to 750 RPM.
Step 5: If the Code Returns
If P0507 comes back after cleaning and the idle relearn, recheck for vacuum leaks with a smoke test. On pre-2006 models, test the FITV by checking whether it closes when the engine reaches operating temperature. If it stays open, the thermowax plunger is stuck and the FITV needs replacement. On all models, check the throttle position sensor and inspect for intake manifold gasket deterioration.
Honda Service Bulletins Related to P0507
Honda published a June 2013 Service News bulletin covering P0507 and P2279 after throttle body service. It applies to 2008 to 2013 Accord 4-cylinder, 2006 to 2013 Accord V6, 2014 Accord Plug-In, 2006 to 2013 Civic and Civic Hybrid, 2005 to 2013 CR-V, 2007 to 2011 Element, 2005 to 2013 Odyssey, 2005 to 2013 Pilot, and 2006 to 2013 Ridgeline. The bulletin states that cleaning or replacing the throttle plate can put it in a different position from the one the ECM had learned, triggering P0507. The fix is to clear the learned throttle position with Honda’s HDS scan tool, reset the ECM, and perform the idle learn procedure.
No active NHTSA safety recall exists specifically for P0507. Honda TSBs 23-008, 23-009, and 23-010 from early 2023 address idle-stop restart failures on the 2016-2022 Pilot, 2019-2022 Passport and 2020-2023 Ridgeline, but those cover the auto idle-stop feature and are a different issue from P0507 high idle. Honda extended warranty to 10 years with no mileage limit for valve adjustment and starter replacement under those bulletins, but that coverage does not apply to P0507.
Repair Cost Breakdown
Most P0507 repairs on Honda cost under $300. The throttle body cleaning with idle relearn is the most common fix and one of the cheapest.
| Repair | Parts | Labor | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Throttle body cleaning (DIY) | $5 to $20 (cleaner) | $0 | $5 to $20 |
| Throttle body cleaning (shop) | $5 to $20 | $75 to $230 | $80 to $250 |
| IACV replacement (pre-2006) | $80 to $200 | $70 to $200 | $150 to $400 |
| FITV replacement (pre-2006) | $60 to $150 | $90 to $150 | $150 to $300 |
| Vacuum leak repair | $10 to $50 | $100 to $250 | $200 to $300 |
| Throttle body replacement (ETCS) | $300 to $400 | $200 to $234 | $509 to $634 |
Is It Safe to Drive With P0507?
Yes, P0507 is a low to moderate severity code. The engine runs at a higher-than-normal idle speed, typically 1,000 to 1,500 RPM instead of the normal 600 to 800 RPM. The vehicle will not stall or lose power while driving.
Fix it within one to two weeks. Driving with P0507 for extended periods wastes fuel in stop-and-go traffic, can cause harsh automatic transmission shifts at low speed, and may damage the catalytic converter if the high idle is caused by a vacuum leak running the engine lean. If the idle is severely high at 2,000 RPM or above, or the engine surges unpredictably, limit driving until you fix it.
Frequently Asked Questions About P0507 on Honda
Why did P0507 appear after I cleaned my throttle body?
What is the FITV and does my Honda have one?
Can I fix P0507 myself on a Honda?
Will P0507 cause my Honda to fail emissions?
What is the difference between P0507 and P0505?
How do I know if my Honda has a vacuum leak?
⚠️ Professional Notice:
This guide covers P0507 as it applies to Honda vehicles. The information is based on Honda service bulletins, NHTSA records, and published repair data. NextCarReview did not diagnose or repair vehicles for this article. Always confirm diagnosis with a qualified technician before authorizing repairs.
Cost figures are published estimates and vary by vehicle, region and shop. Always get a written quote before authorizing a repair. NextCarReview.com does not receive compensation from any parts manufacturer, retailer, dealer or repair chain for editorial coverage.
Data Sources and Verification
- Honda Service News, June 2013: MIL on with DTC P2279 or P0507 after throttle body servicing
- Honda March 2023 warranty extension: engine does not auto restart after auto idle stop
- NHTSA TSB filings MC-10229675 and MC-10229676 for Honda idle-stop related bulletins
- FIXD diagnostic data for P0507 repair cost estimates
- Go-Parts repair data for Honda CR-V, Accord, and Civic P0507 occurrence rates
- Rick’s Free Auto Repair Advice for Honda-specific P0507 diagnosis procedures
- Honda Information Center for drive-by-wire throttle system specifications
Specs, prices and safety ratings change between model years and trims. Verify them for the exact Honda you are considering:
More trouble code guides: All car trouble code guides by make, P1456 Code on Honda, P1457 Code on Honda.
Morgan Reyes is the founder and editor-in-chief of NextCarReview, which Morgan launched in August 2024. A 2022 graduate of Columbia University, Morgan is based in New York and writes and edits the site’s reviews, comparisons and buying guides. Morgan does not road-test vehicles. Every article is built from published primary data: EPA FuelEconomy.gov ratings, NHTSA crash ratings, recalls and owner complaints, IIHS results, and manufacturer specifications and pricing, with each figure cited and checked before publication. Contact: admin@nextcarreview.com
